Microwaves often accumulate food residue and can sometimes experience major messes, such as food explosions.
However, cleaning these messes doesn’t have to be a daunting task.
Instead of relying on commercial cleaning products, you can utilize natural cleaning agents and homemade remedies to effectively clean your microwave. The most effective methods for cleaning a microwave are quite simple.
By gathering a few cleaning essentials and employing steam, you can effortlessly remove grime and restore your microwave to a like-new condition.
Clean a Microwave with Vinegar
What You’ll Need.
- Materials.
- Vinegar.
- Lemon.
- Rubbing Alcohol.
- Microwave-safe bowl.
- Washcloths.
Instructions.
Even if you clean your microwave regularly, it’s common for debris to build up inside after food spills or splatters occur.
Over time, these stains can become stubborn and hard to remove. Fortunately, you can easily tackle this problem by cleaning your microwave with vinegar and steam.
It only takes a few minutes and a quick wipe with a cloth. It’s a simple and effective method!
Before you begin, make sure to unplug your microwave or keep the door open to prevent accidental activation.
Also, be careful not to let any cleaning liquids or substances enter the vents or inner workings of the appliance.
Add Water.
Take a microwave-safe bowl and fill it halfway with water.
Add Vinegar.
Add a few tablespoons of vinegar, either white or apple cider vinegar, to the bowl.
Bring to a Boil.
Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it on high power for up to four minutes until the mixture reaches a boiling point.
Some experts suggest placing a wooden skewer or spoon in the bowl to prevent excessive bubbling during the boiling process. The heating time depends on your microwave’s wattage, which is usually indicated on a sticker inside the door.
Here’s a guideline for heating times based on microwave wattage:
1,200 watts: 1 1/2 minutes
1,000 watts: 2 minutes
800 watts: 2 1/2 minutes
700 watts: 3 minutes
600 watts: 4 minutes
Let Steam.
After heating, turn off the microwave and leave the door closed for a few minutes to allow the steam to soften the debris inside.
Remove Water.
Open the microwave door and carefully remove the bowl of water using oven mitts or pot holders.
Wipe Debris.
Use a damp cloth to quickly wipe away the loosened food debris from the microwave’s interior.
You can also remove the turntable and any other removable parts and wipe them down. Consult your owner’s manual to check if these parts are dishwasher-safe and can be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Wipe with Dry Towel.
Finally, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe all surfaces of the microwave and ensure they are dry.
Return the turntable and any other removed parts back into the microwave.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean your microwave and keep it in excellent condition.
Clean a Microwave with Lemon
If you’re dealing with unpleasant cooking odors in your microwave, lemon can come to the rescue.
Lemon is a natural cleaner with a refreshing scent. You can follow the same steps mentioned earlier for cleaning a microwave with vinegar, as lemon also generates steam to aid in the cleaning process.
Mix Ingredients.
In a 2-cup glass measuring cup, combine 1 cup of water, the grated peel and juice of 1 lemon, and several whole cloves.
You can also slice or halve the lemon if preferred.
Bring to a Boil.
Place the measuring cup in the microwave and set it to high power for several minutes until the mixture reaches a boiling point.
Let Cool.
Leave the cup and mixture in the microwave until they cool down.
Wipe Down the Inside.
Using a soft cloth, wipe the interior of the microwave to remove any residue or stains.
The lemon-infused steam helps to loosen dirt and food particles, making it easier to clean.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean and deodorize your microwave using the natural cleaning power of lemon.
Clean a Stainless-Steel Microwave
Cleaning a stainless-steel microwave requires specific care to maintain its appearance.
While some newer Stainless-Steel Appliances have easy-care finishes that only require soap and water, it’s important to consult your owner’s manual before cleaning the exterior to ensure you use the appropriate method.
Remove Fingerprints.
To eliminate fingerprints and enhance the shine of your stainless-steel microwave’s exterior, you can use rubbing alcohol.
Saturate a Rag.
Dampen a soft cloth with a few drops of rubbing alcohol.
Wipe with the Grain.
When cleaning the stainless steel, always wipe in the direction of the grain.
This helps capture any small particles or pieces of fuzz and prevents scratching the surface.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove fingerprints and maintain the appearance of your stainless-steel microwave.
Remember to consult your owner’s manual for specific cleaning instructions for your appliance.
Clean a Microwave Filter and Exterior
Cleaning the filter and exterior of your microwave is essential for maintaining its performance and appearance.
Follow these steps to effectively clean these areas:
Clean the Exterior.
Start by giving the handles and touchpads a daily wipe-down with an all-purpose cleaner sprayed onto a damp rag.
This helps remove dirt and grime. For routine cleaning of the microwave exterior, wipe it down with a damp rag and all-purpose cleaner.
If you prefer a natural cleaner, you can use a vinegar-based homemade cleaner to clean the glass door, which is a common spot for stubborn residue.
Clean the Underside.
Pay attention to the underside of an over-the-range microwave, especially if you’ve been cooking greasy foods.
Unplug the microwave and move it aside if it sits on a countertop or another surface. Clean the underside thoroughly, as debris can accumulate in this area.
Clean or Change the Filter.
Refer to the owner’s manual for specific instructions on cleaning or changing the filter if your microwave has an exhaust system.
If the filter is removable and washable, remove it and soak it in warm water with a few squirts of Dish Soap. Scrub the filter to remove any debris, rinse it well, shake off excess water, and allow it to dry completely before replacing it.
By following these steps, you can keep your microwave’s filter and exterior clean, ensuring optimal performance and a well-maintained appearance.
*The information is for reference only.