Have you ever opened your microwave, only to be greeted by a daunting sight of last night’s dinner caked onto the inside, sauce splatters and stubborn food remnants on the microwave door? Well, fear not, because I’ve been there too, trying to scrub my way through that stubborn grime.
But guess what? There’s a much easier way!
I have tried multiple methods on tackling my dirty microwave and this has become the simplest, tried and true method to make the inside of your microwave sparkle again. It is just a few simple steps.
I like to add this into my Sunday reset cleaning routine to ensure the microwave is ready for my family to use throughout the week and avoid permanent stuck-on food and stubborn stains.
All you’ll need is your trusty microwave, some vinegar or lemon juice, water, a microwave-safe bowl, and a few paper towels.
Why a Clean Microwave Matters
Now of course having a clean microwave is more pleasant to the eye. No one wants to pop open the door to find all sorts of unidentifiable splatters on the inside of the microwave. However, there is more to it than just aesthetics.
We are also focused on hygiene and functionality. When food residues build up on the inside of the microwave, the taste and smell of your future meals may be affected. You run the risk of bacteria growth and. Keeping it clean ensures that your microwave runs smoothly and you maintain healthy and clean kitchen appliances.
Now, let’s get into the best way to keep things clean.
How to Clean Your Microwave:
What You’ll Need:
- A microwave-safe bowl
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup of vinegar or the juice of one lemon
- A clean cloth or paper towels
- Oven mitts for safety
Keep Things Safe:
- Unplug your microwave: Before you start any cleaning process, ensure that your microwave is unplugged to avoid any accidents.
- Use the right materials: Make sure you’re using a microwave-safe container and any other materials that can go in the microwave.
Steps To Clean Your Microwave:
- Prepare the cleaning solution: Add water to a microwave-safe bowl or a Pyrex measuring cup. Then, pour in ½ cup of vinegar or the juice of one lemon.
- Microwave it: Open your microwave and place the bowl or measuring cup in the microwave and set it on high power for 5 minutes.
- Let it sit: After the 5 minutes are up, leave the bowl in the microwave for an additional 5 minutes without opening the door. This extra time lets the hot water and steam work their wonders, loosening all that caked-on grime from the walls and door.
- Wipe it down: Carefully remove the bowl (use oven mitts – it’ll be hot!), and use a clean towel or paper towels to wipe down the inside of your microwave. The grime should come off easily. Finish up by wiping it once more with a wet towel to get rid of any lingering bits. Your microwave will be left sparkling and smelling fresh.
Cleaning the Microwave Door and Exterior
Now that the inside is sparkling and clean, don’t forget the outside of your microwave. If your house is anything like me, the power buttons and settings get quite the grimy fingerprints, very quickly. Don’t forget to wipe down the outside of the microwave with an all purpose cleaner, damp sponge or I like to use a Mr Clean Magic Eraser.
Preventative Measures and Maintenance
To prevent future messes, always cover your food when heating it in the microwave. This will help maintain a splatter free environment. Ensuring that you give a regular cleaning with damp paper towels or a sponge is a good idea. A consistent kitchen appliance routine is a key to good housekeeping.
Your Microwave Is An Incredible Tool
Microwaves make your life easier. We want to equip you with the knowledge to use your microwave beyond heating up frozen dinners. These little machines are convenient, versatile, and relatively low cost. Modern microwaves are capable of more features than you can dream up. Let this tiny oven work it’s magic for you to make day to day cooking easier for you and your family.
Check out our step-by-step guide to cooking with your microwave here.
Our Favorite Microwave Recipes & Tips
- How To Cook Rice In The Microwave
- How To Cook Scrambled Eggs In The Microwave
- Steamed Carrots In The Microwave
- Pancakes In The Microwave
Check out our full list of microwave recipes here.
In conclusion, cleaning your microwave doesn’t have to require scrubbing and elbow grease. With these simple steps, you can easily achieve a sparkling clean microwave that not only looks great but also works like a charm. So, give it a try and share your experience with us. Happy cooking and even happier cleaning!
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