Best Way to Clean a Microwave: A Comprehensive Guide

Best Way to Clean a Microwave: A Comprehensive Guide

Microwaves are essential appliances in our kitchens, providing convenience and quick heating for our meals.

However, regular cleaning is crucial to maintain their efficiency and hygiene. A clean microwave not only ensures the safety of your food but also extends the lifespan of the appliance.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best way to clean a microwave, including effective techniques, handy tricks, and preventive measures.

So let’s dive in and discover how to keep your microwave sparkling clean!

Why Clean Your Microwave Regularly?

A dirty microwave can pose health risks as food splatters and residues become a breeding ground for bacteria and germs.

Moreover, the accumulation of grime and stains can hinder the microwave’s heating efficiency.

To avoid these issues, it is essential to clean your microwave regularly. By following the steps outlined below, you can have a clean and odor-free microwave in no time.

1. Steam the Interior

Steaming the interior of your microwave is an effective way to loosen dirt, crusts, and stains, making them easier to remove.

There are several steam solutions you can use, depending on the level of dirtiness and the materials you have on hand.

Cleaning with Vinegar and Baking Soda

Vinegar is a versatile cleaning agent that effectively cuts through grease and grime. To create a steam solution, mix one tablespoon of vinegar with a cup of water.

You can use any type of vinegar, such as white or apple cider.

For a smelly microwave, add a tablespoon of baking soda to the mixture. Baking soda helps absorb odors as the water heats up.

To steam clean your microwave using vinegar and baking soda, follow these steps:

1. Pour the steam solution into a microwave-safe bowl or use a specialized microwave steamer like the Angry Mama Microwave Steamer.
2. Place the bowl or steamer in the center of the microwave.
3. Run the microwave on high for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the steam to penetrate and loosen the grime.
4. After the time is up, carefully remove the bowl or steamer and wipe the interior with a damp cloth or sponge.

Pro Tip: Adding a few drops of lemon juice to the vinegar and baking soda solution can enhance the fresh scent while cleaning.

Cleaning with Lemon

Lemons are natural cleaners with antibacterial properties, making them ideal for removing stubborn stains and odors from your microwave.

Follow these steps to steam clean your microwave using lemons:

1. Squeeze one lemon to release the juice.
2. Place one cup of water in a microwaveable bowl or steamer solution holder.
3. Squeeze the lemon halves into the water, extracting as much juice as possible.
4. Place the squeezed lemon halves into the water as well.
5. Put the container in the middle of the microwave and run it on high for 5 to 10 minutes.
6. Carefully remove the container and wipe the interior with a damp cloth or sponge.

Cleaning with Window Cleaner

Window cleaners containing ammonia can effectively break down grease and food stains. If you have a window cleaner on hand, you can use it to clean your microwave.

Follow these steps:

1. In a steamer solution holder, mix five teaspoons of window cleaner with one cup of water.
2. Spray the interior of the microwave with the same window cleaner, focusing on large stains or splatters.
3. Place the steam solution holder in the center of the microwave.
4. Run the microwave on high for about 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Afterward, carefully remove the steam solution holder and wipe the interior with a damp cloth or sponge.

Note: Be cautious when using window cleaner on electronic screens like computer monitors, as they may be sensitive to certain chemicals. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Cleaning with Dishwashing Soap

For mildly dirty microwaves without tough stains or splatters, dishwashing soap can be an effective cleaning agent.

Follow these steps:

1. In a steamer solution holder, mix one teaspoon of dishwashing soap (adjust the amount if using a concentrate) with one cup of water.
2. Optionally, add one to three slices of any citrus fruit to the solution for a pleasant scent.
3. Place the holder in the middle of the microwave.
4. Run the microwave on high for 5 minutes.
5. Afterward, carefully remove the holder and wipe the interior with a damp cloth or sponge.

Note: Always wait for up to five minutes before opening the microwave door after steaming. This allows the steam to loosen the grime, and opening it immediately may expose you to scorching steam.

2. Scrub the Interior

Once you have steamed the interior of your microwave, it’s time to remove the loosened dirt and stains.

Follow these steps to effectively scrub the interior:

1. Remove the steam solution from the microwave.
2. Lift the turntable from its rack and wash both sides with warm water and dishwashing soap. If the turntable is greasy or stained, soak it in the sink with hot water and dishwashing soap for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Before returning the turntable, use a sponge or a soft, non-abrasive wipe cloth to scrub the interior. Food stains can be found in various places, so ensure you clean all surfaces thoroughly.
4. You can dampen the cloth or sponge with the steaming solution used earlier to aid in cleaning.
5. For stubborn grease, consider using a microwave cleaner such as the Miracle Spray for Microwave and Cooktop. This spray quickly removes grease, stains, water residue, grime, and fingerprints, leaving your microwave shining like new. Simply spray the cleaner on the interior surfaces and wipe them with a fresh, dry towel.

Pro Tip: To prevent scratches on your microwave’s surfaces, consider using foam sponges covered with a soft plastic mesh, like the Scotch Brite Dobie All-Purpose Pads.

3. Polish the Exterior

Cleaning the exterior of your microwave is just as important as cleaning the interior. Follow these steps to polish the exterior effectively:

1. Fill a bowl with soapy water, using dishwashing soap to create a soapy solution.
2. Soak a soft cloth in the bowl, ensuring the entire cloth absorbs the water.
3. Wring the cloth to remove excess water, leaving it damp but not dripping wet.
4. Use the damp cloth to wipe the outside of your microwave, including the top, sides, display panel, buttons or dial, and handle.
5. Pay extra attention to the areas frequently touched, such as the dial and buttons, to remove sticky grime.
6. After wiping with the soapy cloth, use a clean wet cloth to wipe down the exterior again. You can use warm water for the second wipe to thoroughly rinse out any remaining soap residue.
7. Optionally, you can use a disinfectant wipe to further sanitize the exterior surfaces.

4. Get Rid of Stubborn Stains

Despite regular cleaning, you may encounter stubborn stains that require special attention.

Here are some remedies to tackle different types of stains:

Using a Baking Soda Paste

If you have stubborn stains inside your microwave, a baking soda paste can work wonders.

To create the paste, mix two parts baking soda with one part water. Then, follow these steps:

1. Apply the baking soda paste to the stained areas.
2. Allow the paste to sit for 10 to 15 minutes, giving it time to break down the stains.
3. Wipe away the baking soda paste with a clean cloth.

Using Nail Polish Remover for Yellow Stains

Over time, yellow stains may develop inside your microwave. To remove these stains, you can use a common household item – nail polish remover.

Follow these steps:

1. Soak a cotton ball with nail polish remover.
2. Rub the cotton ball on the yellowed surfaces.
3. Afterward, wipe the surfaces with water to remove any residue.

Using Vinegar and Baking Soda for Scorch Marks

Scorch marks can be a common occurrence when using a microwave. To remove them effectively, combine vinegar and baking soda:

1. Soak a sponge in vinegar.
2. Sprinkle baking soda on one side of the sponge.
3. Use the sponge to wipe off and remove the scorch marks.

Note: Exercise caution when using nail polish remover and vinegar, as they have strong odors. Ensure proper ventilation during the cleaning process.

5. Maintain with Regular Cleaning

While deep cleaning your microwave is recommended on a weekly basis, daily maintenance is essential to prevent the buildup of dirt, food particles, and bad smells.

By incorporating these simple habits into your routine, you can keep your microwave clean and fresh:

• Always cover any food you heat or cook in the microwave. Using a cover prevents splatters and helps maintain cleanliness.
• Wipe the exterior of your microwave as often as you clean your kitchen counter. Since microwaves are often placed on kitchen counters, it’s important to keep them clean too.
• Avoid microwaving greasy food items or anything that may leave a lingering smell. If you can’t avoid it, use a microwavable container with a lid. If odors persist, perform a quick clean and steam session for your microwave.

By following these maintenance tips, you can minimize the need for deep cleaning and ensure your microwave remains clean and odor-free.

A Few Tricks and Hacks to Keep Your Microwave Clean

In addition to regular cleaning, there are several tricks and hacks you can implement to minimize food splatters and maintain a clean microwave for longer periods.

Let’s explore some of these handy tips:

• Cover your food while it is cooking to reduce splatters. Special microwavable containers with vented lids are available, or you can use cling wrap with a pierced vent.
• Pierce the skins of vegetables with a fork before cooking to prevent them from bursting and causing a mess.
• Be mindful of the types of food you microwave, especially those that are greasy or known to leave lingering smells. Using a microwavable container with a lid can help contain odors.
• Regularly wipe down the interior and exterior of your microwave with a wet paper towel to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. This daily maintenance makes weekly deep cleaning much easier.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keeping your microwave clean is essential for both food safety and the longevity of the appliance.

By following the best way to clean a microwave, which includes steaming the interior, scrubbing the interior and turntable, polishing the exterior, tackling stubborn stains, and performing regular maintenance, you can ensure a clean, odor-free, and efficient microwave.

Incorporating preventive measures, such as covering food and being mindful of what you microwave, can help minimize the need for deep cleaning.

So, make cleaning your microwave a regular part of your kitchen routine and enjoy delicious, safe meals every time.

Additional Information: It is important to unplug your microwave before cleaning to ensure safety. Additionally, always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning recommendations and safety precautions.

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Now that you have the comprehensive guide to the best way to clean a microwave, you can confidently tackle the task and keep your microwave spotless and efficient. Happy cleaning!