A microwave oven is one of the most essential appliances for modern families today. It makes reheating leftovers a breeze and allows you to enjoy delicious meals quickly and conveniently. However, no one really enjoys cleaning the microwave, especially when it’s extremely dirty. Unlike conventional ovens, microwaves can be easily cleaned with a few simple tricks.
Here are some tips and tricks to help you clean and maintain your microwave oven.
1. Use a damp cloth
If your microwave oven has only a few light stains and doesn’t look too bad, using a damp cloth is enough to clean it. Simply place the damp cloth inside the microwave and turn it on at the highest temperature setting for about 5 minutes. This trick will create steam to help loosen and remove dirt and unwanted pollutants inside the microwave. Then, use a soft cloth to wipe the inside clean.
2. Use dish soap
This method works similarly to the damp cloth method mentioned above. Pour some water and dish soap into a microwave-safe bowl (avoid using metal bowls), and place it inside the microwave. Then, turn on the microwave at the highest temperature setting for 1 minute or until you see steam coming from the solution. Finally, remove the bowl and use a sponge to wipe down the inside of the microwave. The stains should come off easily.
3. Use baking soda
Baking soda is an ideal cleaning agent for those stubborn food crumbs stuck in your microwave. Simply create a paste from baking soda and water, and apply it to any hard, stuck-on food crumbs inside the microwave. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes, then wipe away the stains and food crumbs with a sponge or damp cloth. Repeat the process if necessary until the inside of your microwave is spotless.
4. Use vinegar and water
This method is similar to using dish soap to clean your microwave. First, take a microwave-safe bowl and mix equal parts water and vinegar. Place the bowl inside the microwave and turn it on at the highest temperature setting for 3-5 minutes. Make sure to wipe the microwave dry before using it again to remove any traces of vinegar. The mixture of water and vinegar is a natural, versatile, and timeless cleaning agent that can help remove even the toughest stains. This will leave the inside of your microwave clean and fresh.
5. Use lemon
Like vinegar, lemon is a fantastic natural cleaning agent for your microwave. Simply cut a lemon in half and place it cut-side down on a microwave-safe plate. Add a few teaspoons of water and put the plate inside the microwave. Turn it on at a high temperature until it creates steam. Then, remove the plate and wipe away any remaining liquid from the inside of the microwave. Even the toughest stains will be gone in no time.
6. Use diluted glass cleaner
Besides cleaning the inside of your microwave, don’t forget to pay attention to the outside as well. Diluted glass cleaner works wonders for both the interior and exterior of your microwave. Use a soft cloth or sponge dipped in diluted glass cleaner to wipe down the inside and outside of your appliance. Repeat the process to ensure that your microwave is thoroughly cleaned. If the smell of the glass cleaner bothers you, simply wipe down the microwave with a clean, damp cloth to get rid of the odor.
7. Use specialized cleaning chemicals
If you’re hesitant to use the above cleaning tips for fear of damaging your microwave, the best option is to use specialized cleaning chemicals designed for microwave ovens. These chemicals are formulated to remove even the toughest stains from your microwave, allowing you to clean it thoroughly without worrying about potential damage.
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“Keeping your home clean and tidy isn’t just about sprucing up living spaces; it’s also about maintaining the hygiene of your household appliances. A clean home is one where every corner, every device, and every detail is given attention and care, creating a wholesome and healthy environment for you and your family.”