“To Open or Not to Open: The Great Microwave Door Debate”

10 September, 2024

Microwaves: To Close or Not to Close?

When it comes to electrical appliances that support modern-day living, microwaves are undoubtedly a staple in many households. These handy devices use microwave radiation to quickly heat up food, drinks, and even meals straight out of the fridge in a matter of minutes—usually 1 to 3 minutes, to be precise.

However, there’s a common dilemma surrounding microwave use that not all users are aware of: what to do with the door after heating your food. Should you keep it closed to save energy, prevent accidents, and avoid bacterial contamination? Or should you prop it open to let the heat, steam, and odors escape, thus ventilating the interior?

Expert Advice

Ben Hilton, a US home and kitchen appliance expert with 30 years of experience, advises against the practice of leaving the microwave door open after use on The Fixed House forum. Firstly, and most importantly, doing so can waste energy, especially if your microwave has an interior light that stays on when the door is ajar. This can lead to increased energy consumption over time.

Additionally, leaving the door open may result in accidental damage to the hinge or door itself, or even cause the interlock switch to malfunction if someone accidentally bumps into it.

Therefore, after using your microwave, there’s no need to worry about odors, steam, or dirt inside. Simply keep the door closed to maintain the efficiency of the appliance.

If you’re still concerned about air circulation and cleanliness, consider using a soft cloth or paper towel to give the interior a quick wipe-down after each use before closing the door. This will help keep your microwave clean and ensure optimal performance for future use.

Experts also recommend a thorough cleaning of your microwave at regular intervals—weekly or monthly, depending on usage. This should include cleaning the interior with a suitable detergent, wiping down the exterior, and paying special attention to the ventilation holes. The frequency of cleaning can be adjusted based on how often you use your microwave.

Safe and Effective Microwave Cleaning Methods

1. Using White Vinegar

– What you’ll need:

+ White vinegar.

+ A heat-resistant glass bowl.

+ Warm water.

+ Soft cloth.

– Method:

+ Step 1: Mix warm water and vinegar in the glass bowl in a 1:5 ratio.

+ Step 2: Place the bowl in the microwave and set it to medium heat (adjusting the temperature according to your microwave’s capacity). Let it run for 5 minutes, allowing the mixture to heat up and produce steam, thus loosening grime inside the oven.

+ Step 3: Wait for 2 to 3 minutes after the microwave turns off, then remove the bowl and use the cloth to wipe away the softened grime.

+ Step 4: Finish by wiping the interior with a damp cloth followed by a dry one to ensure a thoroughly clean microwave.

2. Using Lemon (or Orange)

– What you’ll need:

+ 1 heat-resistant glass plate.

+ 1 lemon.

+ Warm water.

+ Soft cloth.

– Method:

+ Step 1: Cut the lemon in half and place it cut-side down on the plate, adding 1 to 2 spoons of water.

+ Step 2: Put the plate with the lemon inside the microwave and set it to run for 1 to 2 minutes (adjusting the time according to your microwave’s capacity). The heat will cause the lemon’s acid to evaporate, effectively cleaning and deodorizing the interior.

+ Step 3: Use the cloth to wipe away any remaining grime.

+ Step 4: Finish by wiping the interior with a damp cloth followed by a dry one to ensure a thoroughly clean microwave.

3. Using Baking Soda

– What you’ll need:

+ Baking soda.

+ A soft-bristled toothbrush.

+ Warm water.

+ A heat-resistant glass bowl.

+ Soft cloth.

– Method:

+ Step 1: Create a thick paste by mixing baking soda and water in a bowl.

+ Step 2: Using the toothbrush, apply the paste to the interior surfaces of the microwave, avoiding the heating element. Close the door and let it sit for 10-12 hours.

+ Step 3: Use a damp cloth to wipe away the dried baking soda residue. Then, wipe the interior again with a damp cloth 1-2 times, finishing with a dry cloth to ensure a thorough clean.

Frequently asked questions

No, it is not necessary to leave the microwave door open when it is not being used. While some people believe that doing so helps ventilate the oven and prevents a buildup of bacteria, this is not supported by scientific evidence. In fact, leaving the door open can lead to a decrease in the efficiency of the microwave as it allows heat to escape, and it can also be a safety hazard as it provides easy access for children or pets to enter and potentially get burned.

Keeping the microwave door closed when the oven is not in use helps to contain the heat generated during the cooking process, leading to energy efficiency. It also prevents foreign objects or contaminants from entering the oven, ensuring that your food remains safe and hygienic. Additionally, a closed door provides a physical barrier that can help prevent accidental burns.

No, this is a common misconception. While it is true that microwaves use radiation to heat food, this radiation does not persist or accumulate in the oven cavity when the appliance is turned off. The small amount of residual heat that remains after use is not sufficient to kill bacteria. Proper cleaning and maintenance, including regular disinfection of the microwave interior, are far more effective methods of ensuring bacterial control.

Yes, leaving the microwave door open can pose safety risks, especially in households with children or curious pets. Easy access to the interior of the oven may result in accidental burns, as the interior surfaces can remain hot even after the cooking cycle has ended. Additionally, an open door can create a tripping hazard, particularly if the microwave is positioned at a height where someone could collide with it.

To maintain good ventilation and hygiene practices, it is recommended to wipe down the interior of your microwave regularly with a mild detergent or disinfectant. This will help remove any food residue or spills that could attract bacteria. Additionally, ensure that your microwave is properly ventilated during and after use by avoiding blocking the vents and following the manufacturer’s guidelines for optimal airflow.