Microwaving your dinner after a long day is easy, but dealing with stubborn stains and food residues can be frustrating. We understand the struggle; we've been there too! In fact, research reveals that cleaning microwaves tops the list as one of the most dreaded household tasks in Ireland.
We are here to make it easier with our simple yet practical guide to effectively cleaning your microwave using everyday household items. So, ready for a sparkling, clean kitchen appliance? Dive in!
How To Clean The Inside Of A Microwave?
To clean the inside of a microwave, start by placing a microwave-safe bowl filled with equal parts water and vinegar inside.
Using Lemon And Vinegar
Start by combining lemon and vinegar in a bowl. Next, place this bowl in the microwave. Turn on the machine for five minutes. This creates steam that softens tough stains inside. Be sure to take out the hot bowl with care after this time period is over.
Then, grab a clean rag or sponge to wipe away all dirt from inside your microwave. Add more of your mix to stubborn spots and scrub gently until they're gone! It's important not to forget about cleaning seals, too; use vinegar and keep them spotless with a damp cloth.
Removing Stuck-On Food
To remove stuck-on food from your microwave, start by placing a microwave-safe bowl filled with water inside the microwave. Add some vinegar or lemon juice to the water for extra cleaning power.
Heat the mixture for a few minutes until it starts to steam. The steam will help loosen the food particles, making them easier to wipe away.
Once you've steamed the interior of the microwave, use a clean cloth or sponge to scrub away any remaining stains or residue. You can also use a non-abrasive scrub brush if needed. Be sure to rinse and wring out your cloth frequently during this process.
For stubborn stains, you can create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the problem areas and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently with a damp cloth or sponge.
How to Clean the Outside of a Microwave?
To clean the outside of your microwave, create a cleaning solution by mixing dish soap and baking soda in warm water.
Using dish soap and baking soda
To clean the outside of a microwave, you can use dish soap and baking soda. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a bowl. Dip a sponge or cloth into the soapy water and scrub the exterior surface of the microwave.
For stubborn stains, sprinkle some baking soda on a damp sponge or cloth and gently scrub the affected areas. Rinse off any residue with clean water, and then dry the surface thoroughly.
This method is effective in removing dirt, grease, and fingerprints from your microwave's exterior.
Using Melamine Foam Spots
To clean the outside of your microwave, you can also use melamine foam sponges. These sponges are great for removing tough stains and buildup on surfaces. All you need to do is wet the sponge, squeeze out any excess water, and then gently scrub the outside of your microwave.
The abrasive texture of the sponge helps to lift away dirt and grime without scratching or damaging the surface. Once you're done scrubbing, simply wipe down the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Melamine foam sponges are an easy and effective way to keep your microwave looking clean and shiny.
How to Clean a Microwave Filter?
To clean a microwave filter, begin by removing it from the microwave. Fill a sink or basin with warm, soapy water, and let the filter soak for at least 15 minutes to loosen any debris.
Gently scrub the filter using a soft brush to remove any remaining dirt or grease. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and allow the filter to air dry completely before placing it back in the microwave.
Steps for Cleaning the Filter
To clean the filter in your microwave, start by unplugging it for safety. Locate the filter at the back or on top of the microwave and remove it carefully. If it's a reusable filter, wash it with warm, soapy water and allow it to air dry completely before putting it back.
For disposable filters, replace them with new ones as needed. Regularly cleaning or replacing the filter ensures that your microwave functions efficiently and keeps any lingering odours at bay.
It's an important step in maintaining a clean and well-functioning appliance.
Tips for Maintaining a Clean Microwave
For a sparkling clean microwave at all times, make sure to cover your food and clean up spills immediately. Use only microwave-safe dishes and follow the recommended cooking times. Set aside a regular cleaning routine to keep your appliance in top condition.
Read on for more expert tips!
Covering Food
To keep your microwave clean and prevent food splatters, it's important to cover your dishes when heating them. This simple step can save you from having to scrub stubborn stains later on.
Use microwave-safe covers or a plate upside down to cover your food before microwaving. This will help contain any mess and prevent splattering inside the microwave. By covering your food, you'll make cleaning up much easier and maintain a sparkling clean microwave for longer periods of time.
So remember, always cover your dishes before heating them in the microwave!
Cleaning Spills Immediately
If you accidentally spill something in your microwave, it's important to clean it up right away. Delaying the cleaning can cause the spill to dry and become harder to remove. It could also lead to unpleasant odours in your microwave.
To clean up spills immediately, simply grab a damp cloth or sponge and wipe away the mess as soon as it happens. If the spill is stubborn or has dried, you can use a mixture of vinegar and water to help loosen it before wiping it away.
Remember, cleaning spills promptly will help keep your microwave looking and smelling fresh at all times.
Using Microwave-Safe Dishes
Using microwave-safe dishes is essential for maintaining a clean and safe microwave. When you use dishes that are not microwave-safe, they can melt or release harmful chemicals into your food.
To avoid this, always look for the "microwave-safe" label on your dishware before using it in the microwave. Additionally, make sure to avoid using metal containers or dishes with metallic accents, as they can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
By using microwave-safe dishes, you can ensure that your food is heated evenly and safely every time you use your microwave.
Following Cooking Times
It is important to follow the recommended cooking times when using your microwave. This ensures that your food cooks evenly and thoroughly, reducing the risk of undercooked or overcooked meals.
Cooking times can vary depending on the type and quantity of food you are microwaving, so it is crucial to refer to the instructions provided with your microwave or recipe guidelines.
Overcooking can lead to dried-out or burned food, while undercooking may result in unsafe consumption. By following the cooking times, you can enjoy perfectly cooked meals every time you use your microwave.
Regular Cleaning Routine
To keep your microwave clean and in good condition, it's important to establish a regular cleaning routine. By doing this, you can prevent dirt and grime from building up over time.
After each use, take the time to wipe down the inside of the microwave with a damp cloth or sponge. This will help remove any spills or stains before they have a chance to harden and become more difficult to clean.
Additionally, make sure to clean the outside of the microwave regularly as well, using a mild dish soap and water solution or an all-purpose cleaner. By maintaining a consistent cleaning schedule for your microwave, you can ensure that it stays fresh and ready for use whenever you need it!
However, for crystal-clean microwave cleaning, get perfectly clean, professional help!
To Wrapping Up
Cleaning a microwave is easy and can be done using natural ingredients like lemon, vinegar, and baking soda. By following simple steps and regular maintenance tips, you can keep your microwave clean and odour-free.
So, go ahead and give your microwave a good cleaning to ensure it stays in top condition for years to come!
