While a microwave doesn’t require much maintenance it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t clean it from time to time. You can keep your microwave working at its maximum efficiency and save yourself from dealing with food residues or odors that may build up on the appliance’s walls if you don’t do so.
Vinegar & Water
Vinegar, as well as water, are powerful odor-fighting cleaning products. Put half of the white vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl, and then heat it for 10 minutes. The solution will foam up and eliminate any lingering odors.
Lemon Juice, Vinegar, and Baking Soda
Lemon juice can be used to clean your microwave. However, this is only true if the lemon juice is combined with vinegar and baking powder. Combine 3 tablespoons of lemon juice with 1 tablespoon of white wine and 1/2 cup of water in a bowl. After 5 minutes in the microwave, use a sponge or paper towel to clean out the bowl. It is more efficient than lemon juice, and it smells even better!
A Little Soap and Water
First, fill a bowl full of water. Next, add 1 teaspoon dish soap. Place it in the microwave for 3 minutes. While the microwave is heating, grab an old toothbrush and clean out any gunk around your vents. Once you’re done cleaning, wipe it all down with a damp towel.
Ammonia
While ammonia can be a great way to clean a microwave oven, it can also cause serious health problems. It can burn your skin if you get too much ammonia on it. However, ammonia can help make any stains on your favorite kitchen appliances disappear if used correctly and with caution.
Coffee Grounds
Put 1/4 cup of the used, cooled coffee ground into your microwave. Heat it for 2 minutes. The steam generated by the microwave will clean your microwave without using any harsh chemicals.
Bowl of Boiling Water
Put 1/2 cup of water in a microwave-safe container and heat it up. Turn the microwave on high for 5 minutes. Then, take it out and use a sponge or a towel to clean up. Steam loosens food residue making it much easier to clean up.
Toilet bowl cleaner
You can clean your microwave using something you probably already have at home, such as a toilet bowl cleaner. Although some commercial cleaners might not be strong enough, you can clean your microwave with a mix of water and disinfectant. Mix the two ingredients in a spray can. Let it sit in the microwave for 10 minutes, then wipe it clean with paper towels. You can repeat the process until you are satisfied.
Baking Soda and Lemon Juice
Many cooks swear by the combination of lemon juice, baking soda, and salt to clean almost any item. Put 1/2 teaspoon baking soda in a microwave-safe bowl. Next, add water to the bowl. The amount you use doesn’t really matter so long as it holds about 2 tablespoons. Finally, stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt. Place in the microwave for two minutes at high speed. Remove from the microwave carefully (it will be hot). Wipe clean with a sponge/paper towel.
Freezer Pop Method
You can use your freezer to clean your microwave. You can use your dirty microwave to make ice cubes with water. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes and then wipe off!
Cleaning Tablet
One of those water-soluble cleaning tablets is the best way to clean your microwave. Put one of those scratch-free cleaning tablets in a bowl of water and place it inside the microwave. After 30 minutes, use a damp cloth to wipe away any residue. Easy-peasy!
