How To Clean Microwave
Table of Contents
- Routine Microwave Cleaning
- How to Deep Clean Your Microwave
- How to Clean the Outside of Your Microwave
- How to Keep Your Microwave Clean: Simple, Quick Maintenance
- Beyond the Microwave: Keep Your Entire Kitchen Squeaky Clean
Microwaves are a kitchen essential, but cleaning them? Let's be honest; it's a chore most of us dread. Months of splattered sauces and forgotten leftovers can leave your microwave looking like a culinary crime scene.
But fear not! This guide will walk you through the most effective methods for cleaning your microwave, from a quick cleaning to tackling the stickiest, most stubborn gunk. Plus, we'll share pro tips to keep it cleaner longer, saving you time and effort.
Safety First: Always unplug your microwave before you begin cleaning. This simple step is crucial for your safety.
Routine Microwave Cleaning: The Speedy Steam Clean
The microwave steam cleaning method is ideal for everyday spills and light buildup. It's quick, easy, and uses ingredients you probably already have.
What You'll Need
- A microwave-safe bowl or cup
- 1/3 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for a fresh scent)
- Microfiber cloths
The Steps
- Prep the Steam. Fill the bowl with 1/3 cup of water and add the vinegar or lemon juice if desired. Lemon juice not only adds a pleasant aroma but also helps to loosen grime. If you don't have bottled lemon juice, no problem! Squeeze the juice from half a lemon into the water. This is about the same as a tablespoon of lemon juice and will give you the same great results.
- Steam Away. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high for 3-5 minutes. The water will boil, creating steam that loosens stuck-on food.
- Cool Down. Let the bowl sit in the microwave for a few minutes to allow the steam to work its magic. This also prevents you from burning yourself.
- Wipe It Down. Carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot!) and use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the interior of the microwave. The loosened grime should come off quickly.
- Turntable Time. Remove the turntable and wash it with hot, soapy water (just like you would wash a dish). If it's dishwasher-safe, even better! Make sure it's completely dry before putting it back in your microwave.,
- Repeat if Needed. If some spots are still stubborn, repeat steps 2-4.
Pro Tip: Add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the water for extra stubborn spots. Vinegar is a natural degreaser.
How to Deep Clean Your Microwave: Baking Soda Power
If your microwave looks like it's been through a food fight, it's time to bring out the big guns: baking soda. This gentle abrasive is surprisingly effective at removing baked-on food.
What You'll Need
- 4 tablespoons of baking soda
- 1 quart of water
- A shallow dish or bowl
- Microfiber cloths
The Steps
- Make a Paste. Mix four tablespoons of baking soda with 1 quart of water to form a thick paste.
- Apply and Scrub. Remove the turntable and apply the paste to the inside of the microwave, focusing on the areas with stuck-on food. Gently scrub with a microfiber cloth.
- Wipe Away. Use a clean, damp microfiber cloth to wipe away the baking soda paste and loosened food particles.
- Rinse and Repeat. Rinse the cloth frequently and repeat the process until the microwave is clean.
- Final Touch. Wipe the interior with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to remove any remaining baking soda residue.
Pro Tip: Let the baking soda paste sit on the stubborn spots for a few minutes before scrubbing for even better results.
How to Clean the Outside of Your Microwave
Don't forget the exterior! A clean microwave makes your kitchen look amazing and helps prevent the spreading of germs (especially during cold and flu season).
What You'll Need
- All-purpose cleaner or diluted white vinegar
- Microfiber cloths
The Steps
- Spray and Wipe. Lightly spray a microfiber cloth with your chosen cleaner. Do not spray directly onto the microwave.
- Clean the Surface. Wipe down the outside of the microwave, paying attention to the handle, keypad, and any other frequently touched areas.
- Buff and Dry. Use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface and remove any streaks.
Pro Tip: Use a stainless steel cleaner for a streak-free shine for stainless steel exteriors.
How to Keep Your Microwave Clean: Simple, Quick Maintenance
Prevention is key! These simple habits will help you keep your microwave cleaner between deep cleans:
- Wipe as You Go. Wipe up spills immediately. The longer they sit, the harder they'll be to remove.
- Cover Up. Cover food and liquids whenever possible to prevent splattering.
- Cook Smart. Follow recommended cooking times and power levels to avoid food explosions.
- Regular Wipe-Down. Give the inside of your microwave a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth every week or two.
Beyond the Microwave: Keep Your Entire Kitchen Squeaky Clean
Now that your microwave is sparkling, why stop there? You may be eyeing your dirty stovetop - these tips on cleaning greasy stoves may be useful.
If you need help keeping the kitchen or the rest of your home clean, contact your local Merry Maids. They’re happy to perform routine housekeeping so that you can spend time doing what you enjoy.
