Introduction
A microwave oven is one of the most-used appliances in most kitchens. It provides a quick and convenient way to heat up leftovers, cook frozen foods, and prepare snacks in mere minutes. However, like any frequently used appliance, microwaves are prone to getting dirty and greasy over time. Food splatters, built-up grime, and sticky spills can make the inside of your microwave look less-than-appealing.
While it’s easy to ignore dirt and stains if they’re out of sight, it’s important to thoroughly clean your microwave on a regular basis. Not only will this improve the machine’s appearance and eliminate odors, but it will also get rid of bacteria that can spread illnesses. A sparkling clean microwave isn’t difficult to achieve with the right cleaning methods and supplies. Read on to learn how to get a sparkling clean microwave in just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Remove All Food and Accessories
The first step in cleaning your microwave is removing everything from inside it. Take out any removable trays, racks, or turntables. If your microwave has a removable glass tray, wash this in the sink with warm soapy water before putting it back in. Discard any old food, wrappers, and containers. It’s much easier to scrub the microwave interior when it’s completely empty.
Step 2: Mix Up a Microwave-Safe Cleaning Solution
For the best cleaning results, you’ll want to use a cleaning solution designed specifically for microwave use. How to Get a Sparkling Clean Microwave requires a cleaner that is safe for the interior. Many household cleaners contain chemicals and fumes that can be hazardous inside a microwave when heated.
Make your own safe microwave cleaning solution by combining the following ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon mild dish soap
Mix the ingredients together in a microwave-safe bowl until well blended. The baking soda will help dissolve and lift grease while the dish soap cuts through food grime.
Step 3: Steam and Soften Dried Food and Spills
If your microwave has significant dried-on food spots or splatters, the first cleaning step is softening them. Place the bowl with cleaning solution inside the microwave. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, until the solution is steaming and bubbling.
Remove the bowl carefully using an oven mitt. Keep the microwave door closed so that the steam permeates and softens the dried food debris and splatters. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
The hot steam will help loosen the bonds of stuck-on food and grime. This makes scrubbing much easier in the next step.
Step 4: Scrub All Interior Surfaces
With a soft sponge or cloth, wipe down the interior microwave walls, roof, turntable, and door. The heated cleaning solution and steam should allow you to easily scrub off food splatters and baked-on grease.
For tough spots, let the cleaning cloth soak directly on them for 30 seconds before scrubbing. The baking soda serves as a gentle abrasive to lift off the grime.
Be sure to get into crevices, edges, and underneath the turntable. For stubborn spots, spray dishwashing detergent directly on them. Let it soak in for a minute or two before scrubbing.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry Completely
Once you’ve scrubbed all the interior surfaces, give your microwave a thorough rinsing. Use a clean damp cloth to wipe away any leftover grime and cleaning solution. Make sure to remove all soap residue, which can leave streaks.
Then use a dry towel to absorb any moisture and water droplets inside. It’s important to get the interior completely dry to prevent mold and mildew growth. Reinstall any accessories and turntable if you removed them.
Leave the microwave door open for 10-15 minutes to allow for ample drying time. The heat of the light bulb will also help evaporate any lingering moisture.
Step 6: Sprinkle and Flush with Baking Soda
For the sparkling clean microwave results you want, sprinkle baking soda all over the interior after drying. The baking soda will help absorb odors and neutralize any leftover odors from cleaning chemicals.
Let the baking soda sit for a few hours or preferably overnight. Then take a damp cloth and wipe out the baking soda, flushing it down the drain. This gives a fresher, cleaner smell.
Step 7: Clean Exterior and Door
Don’t forget to clean the outside of your microwave, too! Mix a cleaning solution of equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the exterior surfaces including the door, handles, control panel, and outer edges.
Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down the exterior, taking care not to get cleaning solution into any vents or openings. Buff dry with a clean cloth. For stainless steel microwaves, use a stainless steel cleaner and microfiber cloth for best results.
Step 8: Remove Odors with a Lemon
For a powerful microwave deodorizer, place half a lemon in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 cup water. Cook on high for 3 minutes, allowing the lemon to boil and steam. Let the heated lemon steam circulate for 5 minutes before removing. Wipe out any remaining water or residues. The fresh lemon scent eliminates lingering odors.
Step 9: Maintain a Clean Microwave
To keep your microwave clean long-term, follow these handy maintenance tips:
- Cover foods when cooking to prevent splatters
- Use paper towels or plastic wrap under plates for cleanup
- Immediately wipe spills when they happen
- Use odor absorbers like baking soda occasionally
- Deep clean interior every 2-3 months
Following a routine cleaning schedule and taking steps to contain messes will prevent significant buildup. With regular care, you can enjoy a sparkling clean microwave all the time!
Common Microwave Cleaning Problems and Solutions
Even with regular cleaning, you may encounter some stubborn microwave messes or issues. Here are some common problems and the best ways to tackle them:
Grease Buildup
Greasy residue on the interior surfaces and roof is common in microwaves, especially if you frequently cook greasy foods like pizza or bacon.
Solution: Use hot soapy water or degreasing spray cleaners designed for microwave use. Avoid abrasive scouring pads. For heavy grease, let degreaser or diluted vinegar soak before scrubbing.
Burnt Food and Stains
Heating foods too long can lead to splattering, burns, and tough stains. Tomato-based foods are culprits for stubborn burnt-on stains.
Solution: Gently scrape off any loose debris, then use baking soda and water paste to scrub stained areas. For heavier stains, spray with oven cleaner and let sit before scrubbing. Use an old toothbrush to get into crevices.
Mildew and Mold
Food particles and moisture that aren’t properly cleaned can allow mold and mildew growth in your microwave, especially on walls and door seals.
Solution: Disinfect interior using bleach cleaner or vinegar solution. Always wipe up spills immediately and keep microwave surfaces dry. Improve ventilation.
Odors
Microwaves easily absorb food odors that can linger, even after cleaning.
Solution: Deodorize interior using lemon steam, baking soda, or charcoal bags. Keep microwave clean and avoid heating very odorous foods. Ventilate room during and after cooking.
Rust Spots
If the protective coating in your microwave gets scratched, moisture can lead to rust spots on interior metal surfaces.
Solution: Use rust remover spray and fine grit sandpaper to gently scour rust spots. Touch up with appliance-safe paint. Avoid abrasive scouring pads.
Clogged Vents/Exhaust
For a microwave to function properly, the ventilation system must be clear to vent steam and heat. Clogs can lead to poor function or overheating.
Solution: Carefully remove vent covers on the exterior to access ventilation system. Use a vent brush attachment and compressed air to remove built up debris blocking airways.
Tips for Easy Microwave Cleaning
Keeping your microwave clean doesn’t have to require special cleaners or a lot of effort. There are a few easy tips and tricks to make the job quick and hassle-free:
- Clean it weekly – Set aside 5 minutes per week to do a quick wipe-down of surfaces. This prevents significant buildup.
- Use steam – Heat a cup of water for 2-3 minutes to soften splatters for easier wiping.
- Soak tough spots – For dried or burnt-on messes, soak with dish soap or vinegar before scrubbing.
- Use mild dish soap – Avoid harsh chemical cleaners. Dish soap effectively cuts through grease.
- Baking soda is a miracle worker – Its gentle abrasiveness lifts stains and it deodorizes.
- Make your own cleaner – Baking soda, vinegar, and water are all you need for an effective microwave cleaner.
- Let a lemon make it smell fresh – Microwave lemon juice and water for 5 minutes for fresh lemon steam.
- Hang onto the manual – For questions on how to safely clean ventilation system and other parts.
- Remember the exterior – Wipe down outer surfaces and door to complete the cleaning.
With minimal effort using inexpensive ingredients, it’s easy to keep your microwave sparkling clean and looking like new again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Your Microwave
Many people have questions when it comes to tackling microwave messes. Here are some of the most common FAQs:
Is it safe to microwave vinegar or lemon juice?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to microwave small amounts of vinegar, lemon juice, or diluted citrus juices. The acids in them can help loosen and dissolve grime. Take care not to microwave them for too long.
Should I take parts out to clean them?
While you can wash removable trays, racks, and turntables by hand, avoid putting other parts in water. Wipe them down with a mild detergent and cloth. Consult manuals for guidance.
What should I do about rust spots?
Use rust remover spray and fine grit sandpaper to gently remove rust spots on interior metal. Avoid abrasive scouring pads. Touch up paint if needed.
How do I eliminate bad smells?
Steaming lemon juice is a great deodorizer. Baking soda left overnight or charcoal bags also absorb odors. Avoid heating very smelly foods.
How often should I clean the microwave?
Aim to wipe down interior weekly and do a thorough deep cleaning every 2-3 months. Clean immediately if you notice splatters or spills.
Is it okay to use oven cleaner in a microwave?
No. Most oven cleaners contain harsh chemicals and toxins not suited for the confined space of a microwave interior. Use safer, milder cleaners.
What’s causing rust spots on the interior?
If the protective coating gets scratched, moisture can lead to rusting of interior metal components. Avoid using rough scrubbing pads.
Why does my microwave smell bad even after cleaning?
Odors can linger and get absorbed into surfaces. Use steam, baking soda, vinegar, or charcoal bags to fully deodorize after cleaning.
Conclusion
While microwaves make cooking and reheating foods incredibly convenient, the regular use can leave interiors dirty and grimy. Knowing how to deep clean your microwave properly ensures it looks as good as it functions.
With these simple methods using common household cleaners, even stubborn messes and odors can be eliminated. Set aside time every few months to thoroughly clean and deodorize the interior and exterior. Implement quick cleaning habits like wiping spills immediately to maintain its cleanliness.
By regularly cleaning and caring for your microwave oven, you can enjoy sparkling results and keep it looking like new for years of mess-free cooking and reheating. With a little time and elbow grease, you can easily achieve microwave cleanliness.