Cleaning a microwave with burnt food and grease can be a bit challenging, but with the right approach, you can get your microwave looking clean and smelling fresh again. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean a microwave effectively:
You will need:
- Microwave-safe bowl or cup
- Water
- White vinegar or lemon juice (optional)
- Dish soap or mild cleaning solution
- Soft sponge or microfiber cloth
- Wooden or plastic utensil (to avoid scratching)
Instructions:
Remove debris: Start by removing any large pieces of burnt food or debris from the microwave. Be gentle and use a wooden or plastic utensil to avoid scratching the interior surface.
Prepare a cleaning solution: Fill a microwave-safe bowl or cup with water. If you want to add some cleaning power, you can mix in a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Both vinegar and lemon have natural cleaning properties and can help with grease and odors.
Microwave the cleaning solution: Place the bowl or cup with the water and cleaning solution inside the microwave. Heat it on high power for 3-5 minutes or until the water comes to a boil. This will create steam inside the microwave, which will help to loosen the burnt food and grease.
Let the steam work: After microwaving, keep the microwave door closed for a few more minutes (about 5 minutes) to allow the steam to work its magic. The steam will help soften the hardened food particles and grease, making them easier to wipe away.
Remove the bowl and wipe down: Carefully remove the bowl or cup from the microwave (it will be hot, so use oven mitts). Take a soft sponge or microfiber cloth dampened with warm, soapy water, and start wiping down the interior of the microwave. The steam should have loosened the burnt food and grease, making it easier to clean. Pay extra attention to stubborn stains.
Clean the turntable and accessories: Remove the turntable and any other removable accessories from the microwave and wash them with warm, soapy water. Dry them thoroughly before putting them back inside the microwave.
Clean the exterior: Don't forget to clean the exterior of the microwave as well. Wipe down the control panel, keypad, and the exterior surfaces with a damp cloth.
Dealing with tough stains: If you encounter tough, stubborn stains that didn't come off with the steam cleaning, you can make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stains and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently with a sponge.
Rinse and dry: Once you've finished cleaning, use a clean damp cloth to wipe away any remaining soap or cleaning solution. Then, use a dry cloth to thoroughly dry the interior and exterior of the microwave.
Regularly cleaning your microwave, especially after spills and splatters, can prevent stubborn stains and burnt-on food from building up, making future cleanings much easier.