How to Clean a Microwave

Microwaves are one of the great inventions of the 20th century. Whether you’re using one at home or work, you know how much easier it can make meal preparation. You probably use one frequently, but how often do you clean it? When you make it routine to eliminate any stains or food splashes, your microwave stays germ-free and energy-efficient.

Remember the last time your food exploded in the microwave? It doesn’t take much to make a mess in there. THat’s why it’s essential to learn different cleaning methods (and get a microwave cover while you’re at it!) and clean every few weeks.

Follow this guide to know how to keep your microwave squeaky clean.

Vinegar

For any stubborn stains and buildup, a popular go-to is vinegar. To start, fill a microwavable-bowl with half water and half vinegar. Then, heat it for about three minutes until it boils. The steam from the mixture should loosen any food particles and remove foul smells.

Immediately afterwards, use a sponge or paper towel to wipe the microwave. Once all splatters and stains have been removed, grab a dry cloth to wipe it down once more.

Baking Soda

You can use baking soda to clean microwaves, and it’ll be especially powerful in breaking down any stains and spills on the turntable. Take a small bowl and make a paste out of water and baking soda. Apply it to any stubborn food particles, and let it sit for at least five minutes.

Then, grab a wet sponge or cloth to wipe it down. You should find it much easier to get rid of the mess since this baking soda mixture softens particles.

Mixture of Vinegar and Baking Soda

Yes, you can use both! Baking soda and vinegar have proven to be excellent cleaning solutions. Combining both results in a powerful and affordable solution. Start with four spoons of baking soda to a bowl of warm water and stir it. Dip a piece of cloth in the mix and clean the unit.

Then, get a bowl, pour equal amounts of vinegar and water, and place it in the microwave until it boils. Once the combination cools down, use it to clean the unit again to the point where you get rid of all the baking soda.

Lemon

If you prefer using natural lemon for cleaning, you’re in luck! This method is pretty simple and straightforward: put about a half cup of water into a measuring bowl, slice one lemon, squeeze it into the water, and drop the pieces into the jar. Heat the liquid in the microwave on high to boil the mixture.

Let the steam work on any sticky substances for about five minutes. Finally, open the door and wipe all areas, ensuring that all discolors are scrubbed. Mmmm, zesty…

Essential Lemon Oil

Using lemon essential oil to clean microwaves is also a possibility. Find a wet sponge and a spray bottle filled with a few lemon oil drops. Place the sponge in the unit, and spray the internal parts of the appliance, including all corners. Turn the microwave on for a minute or two. Once the sponge has cooled (!), use it to clean every part.

Dish Soap

One of the most common methods of cleaning is using regular dish soap. Find a microwavable bowl, fill it with a considerable amount of water, and add a small amount of dish soap. Place the mixture in the unit, and let it steam for about a minute.

Then, use a wet sponge to wipe the inside. You can finish wiping with a dry cloth to leave it spotless.

Window Cleaner

If you’re still unable to get rid of food particles, take a bowl and spray some pumps of window cleaner into it, adding about a cup of warm water. It may seem to dilute the solution, but it actually makes it more effective.

Dip a cloth in the solution, and scrub the inside of the appliance until it looks spotless. Ensure that the vents are clear from the inside, and don’t forget the top is most vulnerable.

Since you’re using chemicals, dip a clean rag in water and wipe all surfaces. In case you notice any stains, dip a cloth in olive oil and scrub the spots. Before using the microwave again, try smelling the unit to make sure any window cleaner scent is gone. If you still smell it, try using fresh water and a cloth or one of the previously-mentioned natural solutions.

Conclusion

Your microwave is a small wonder, so treat it well! Make sure to prepare foods to limit messes, and maintain a consistent cleaning routine. Use any of the above tips to help you keep it spotless and odorless. In return, your small wonder will last quite a bit longer.

Still have questions? Ask an HVAC expert directly via chat or phone.

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