The microwave is a convenient cooking tool for quick meal prep, but it’s important to not overlook the buildup of food residue and grease inside. Aside from the unpleasant odor, bacteria can thrive and turn your microwave into a breeding ground for viruses and germs. It’s essential to clean your microwave regularly to maintain hygiene and avoid spending excessive time on deep cleaning later. Here are six simple methods to get rid of microwave odors!
Say no to specialized cleaning products! All you need are household items like baking soda, lemons, and vinegar to effectively clean and deodorize your microwave.
1. Paper Towel Method
The simplest way to deodorize your microwave is to dampen a paper towel, place it inside, and heat it on high power for 5 minutes. Once the paper towel has cooled slightly, use it to wipe down the interior. The purpose of heating the damp paper towel is to generate steam that softens the built-up grime, making it easier to clean. By adopting this routine after each use, you’ll effectively eliminate unpleasant odors.
Dampen the paper towel.
Place it directly into the microwave to create steam and loosen grime.
2. Baking Soda to the Rescue
What about those stubborn stains on the microwave’s turntable? Simply mix baking soda and water in a 2:1 ratio, apply a thick layer to the stain, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Once the stain has softened, use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe it away, along with the baking soda.
Baking soda is your trusted ally in household cleaning.
Combine baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste, and apply it directly to the stain for a few minutes. This will make cleaning a breeze.
3. Vinegar and Water Combo
Combine half a cup of water with a tablespoon of white vinegar in a microwave-safe container. Heat this mixture on high for 5 minutes. The microwave’s rotating action will cause the diluted vinegar to evaporate, softening any stubborn grime. Afterward, wipe down the interior of the microwave with a clean dishcloth or paper towel. Remove the turntable, give it a good wash, and place it back inside.
Vinegar is highly acidic, so it’s important not to apply it directly to electrical appliances. Always dilute it with water.
Check out this video for a step-by-step guide on cleaning your microwave with vinegar and water.
4. Dynamic Duo: Vinegar and Baking Soda
Start by dissolving 4 teaspoons of baking soda in approximately 1 liter of warm water. Use a cloth or sponge to apply the baking soda solution to the interior of the microwave. Then, mix equal parts water and white vinegar, pour the mixture into a microwave-safe container, and heat it inside the microwave for 3 minutes. It’s important to not open the microwave door immediately after heating! Wait for about 10 minutes before opening the door, removing the container and turntable, and washing the turntable with soap and water. Finally, wipe down the microwave’s interior with diluted white vinegar.
Baking soda and vinegar, when diluted with water, work like a double-edged sword to deep clean your microwave. However, exercise caution during use to prevent accidents.
5. Lemon Power
Cut a lemon in half, place the cut side down on a plate, and add a teaspoon of water. Microwave this setup for about a minute to allow the lemon juice and water to vaporize. Once done, use a paper towel to wipe down the microwave’s interior, leaving it fresh and clean.
Like vinegar, lemon has strong antibacterial properties and is a natural deodorizer. It’s a win-win!
Lemons are readily available and versatile. Aside from cleaning the microwave, you can also use them to freshen up your fridge.
6. Dish Soap to the Rescue
Pour half a cup of warm water into a microwave-safe container, add a suitable amount of dish soap, and heat the mixture in the microwave for a minute. After heating, remove the container and use a damp sponge to wipe down the microwave’s interior. For an extra boost of freshness, add a pinch of baking soda!
Say goodbye to microwave odors with this simple trick!
Source: An Nhiên- Vietnamnet.vn