Microwaves are primarily known for their ability to heat or cook food quickly, but they can also be quite versatile and have some surprising uses beyond just cooking. Here are some unexpected and creative uses for your microwave:
Disinfecting kitchen sponges: Kitchen sponges can harbor bacteria and germs. To disinfect them, wet the sponge and place it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes on high. Be cautious when removing it, as it will be hot.
Reviving stale bread and pastries: If your bread or pastries have gone a bit stale, you can revive them by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for a few seconds. This will add a bit of moisture back into the items, making them softer and fresher.
Peeling garlic and onions easily: To make peeling garlic or onions a breeze, microwave them for about 15 seconds before attempting to peel. The microwave loosens the skin, making it easier to remove.
Sterilizing garden soil: If you're using garden soil for indoor plants or seedlings, you can sterilize it by microwaving it in batches. This will help kill off any pathogens or pests that might be present in the soil.
Softening brown sugar: If your brown sugar has hardened, place it in a microwave-safe container with a damp paper towel on top. Heat it in short intervals until the sugar softens.
Testing batteries: To check if a battery is still good, place it between two small, flat metal objects (like spoons) to prevent a direct connection. If the battery creates sparks when microwaved for a second or two, it's still functional.
Drying herbs: To quickly dry fresh herbs, place them on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Microwave in short intervals until they are crisp.
Peeling fruits and vegetables: To make peeling certain fruits and vegetables easier, microwave them for about 30 seconds. This can work well with items like tomatoes and peaches.
Pre-heating beauty products: In winter, you can warm up cold beauty products like lotion, creams, or eye masks by microwaving them for a few seconds. Always check the temperature before applying to avoid burns.
Remember to exercise caution when using your microwave for non-food purposes and follow any safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Microwaves can be powerful appliances, so using them creatively requires careful attention and proper judgment to avoid accidents.