How to Clean a Microwave

Mix equal parts of water and vinegar/lemon juice in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. Let sit for 5-10 minutes. Wipe down interior with damp cloth. Clean turntable and exterior. Dry with clean cloth.

A microwave is a convenient appliance that has made cooking and reheating food a lot easier. However, over time, it can get dirty and develop an unpleasant odor due to food spills and splatters. In this article, we’ll go over how to clean a microwave effectively and safely.

What You Need to Clean a Microwave

Before you begin cleaning your microwave, gather the following materials:

• A microwave-safe bowl
• Water
• Vinegar or lemon juice
• A sponge or cloth
• Dish soap
• A dry towel

Safety precautions: Wear gloves to protect your skin from the hot cleaning solution and the microwave’s interior.

Common Steps to Clean a Microwave

Follow these simple steps to clean your microwave:

1. Remove any loose debris: Wipe away any loose debris or food particles from the inside of the microwave with a dry cloth.
2. Prepare cleaning solution: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together equal parts water and vinegar or lemon juice. You can also use a commercial microwave cleaner if you prefer.
3. Microwave the solution: Place the bowl with the cleaning solution inside the microwave and heat it on high for 2-3 minutes. This will help to loosen any tough stains or food residue.
4. Let the solution sit: Leave the bowl inside the microwave for 5-10 minutes to allow the steam to penetrate and loosen any remaining debris.
5. Wipe the inside: Using a damp cloth or sponge, wipe down the inside of the microwave, paying particular attention to any stubborn stains. Be careful as the interior may still be hot.
6. Clean the turntable and exterior: Remove the turntable and wash it with soap and water. Wipe down the exterior of the microwave with a damp cloth.
7. Dry the microwave: Use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to wipe the inside and outside of the microwave, ensuring that it is completely dry before use.

Related : How to Clean Kitchen Cabinets

How to Clean a Microwave with Vinegar

Cleaning your microwave with vinegar is an easy and effective way to remove stubborn stains and odors. To clean your microwave with vinegar, follow these simple steps:

1. Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Place the bowl inside the microwave and heat it on high for 5-10 minutes or until the mixture starts to boil.
3. Let the solution sit for a few minutes to allow the steam to loosen any dirt or grime.
4. Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and wipe down the interior with a damp cloth or sponge.
5. For any stubborn stains, dip the cloth or sponge into the vinegar-water mixture and scrub until clean.
6. Rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe down the interior again.
7. Dry the microwave with a clean towel or paper towel.

How to Clean a Microwave with Lemon

If you don’t have vinegar on hand, you can also clean your microwave with lemon. Lemon has natural cleaning properties and leaves a fresh scent. To clean your microwave with lemon, follow these simple steps:

1. Cut a lemon into quarters and squeeze the juice into a microwave-safe bowl filled with water.
2. Place the bowl inside the microwave and heat it on high for 3-5 minutes.
3. Let the solution sit for a few minutes to allow the steam to loosen any dirt or grime.
4. Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and wipe down the interior with a damp cloth or sponge.
5. For any stubborn stains, dip the cloth or sponge into the lemon-water mixture and scrub until clean.
6. Rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe down the interior again.
7. Dry the microwave with a clean towel or paper towel.

How to Clean a Stainless-Steel Microwave

Cleaning a stainless-steel microwave requires a different approach than cleaning a regular microwave. To clean a stainless-steel microwave, follow these simple steps:

1. Mix equal parts of water and dish soap in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the mixture onto the interior of the microwave and wipe it down with a microfiber cloth.
3. For any stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the stains.
4. Let the paste sit for a few minutes and then scrub it with a non-abrasive sponge.
5. Rinse the sponge with clean water and wipe down the interior again.
6. Dry the microwave with a clean microfiber cloth.

How to Clean a Microwave Filter and Exterior

Cleaning the filter and exterior of your microwave is just as important as cleaning the interior. To clean the filter and exterior of your microwave, follow these simple steps:

1. Remove the filter and wash it with dish soap and warm water.
2. Rinse the filter with clean water and let it air dry.
3. Wipe down the exterior of the microwave with a damp cloth or sponge.
4. For any stubborn stains, mix baking soda and water to make a paste and apply it to the stains.
5. Let the paste sit for a few minutes and then scrub it with a non-abrasive sponge.
6. Rinse the sponge with clean water and wipe down the exterior again.
7. Dry the microwave with a clean towel or paper towel.

By following these tips and steps, you can keep your microwave clean and in good condition for years to come.

Tips for Keeping Your Microwave Clean

To prevent your microwave from getting dirty, try these tips:

• Cover your food: Use a microwave-safe cover to prevent food from splattering and making a mess inside your microwave.
• Wipe up spills immediately: If any spills occur, wipe them up immediately before they harden and become harder to clean.
• Clean your microwave regularly: It’s essential to clean your microwave regularly to prevent food particles from accumulating and causing unpleasant odors.
• Use a microwave cover: Use a microwave cover to prevent food from splattering and making a mess inside your microwave.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cleaning a microwave is an essential task that should not be ignored. It helps to remove any food residue and unpleasant odor from your appliance and ensures that it stays in good working condition. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can quickly and safely clean your microwave.

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