I figured it out (with a little help from the appliance store), so I'm answering my own question for anyone else who might search for this question in the archives......Those little screwed in posts are actually handles to move the lever than holds the baffles in place. Don't unscrew them, or, if you did (like me), put them back. Then push the post back, which moves the support back and allows you to jiggle it a little and lower the front edge of the baffle down away from the hood (make sure you have your other hand supporting the baffle). Then you pull it forward, so the front edge is free too and you're good -- you can clean them yourself or put them in the dishwasher.

To replace them, just do the reverse -- insert the back supports of the baffles first into the slots (this will be apparent once you see them), then push the post back to insert the front edge securely.

Thank you so much for posting this. We couldn't figure out how to remove the baffles until we read your post.

I agree. Thank-you for posting. I was having the same problem.