From late-night leftovers to the occasional frozen burrito, our microwaves are always there for us. This little appliance can handle almost any kitchen need you can think of. Instantly reheat food, set timers, vent the stovetop and more. But take a closer look at your microwave and try to remember the last time you cleaned it.
If your microwave is covered in food splatter or is giving off an unpleasant smell, it’s time to give it a proper cleaning. This step-by-step guide will guide you through safe and effective microwave cleaning. And while you’re cleaning, you can also check out our posts on how to clean a dishwasher and how to clean a washing machine.
Jenny McGrath / Digital Trends
How to clean a microwave oven
Step 1: Fill a microwave-safe bowl with one cup of water and 1/4 cup of white vinegar. If you don’t have vinegar on hand, you can replace it with one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid.
Step 2: Put the solution in the microwave and cook it for about one to two minutes (this depends on the power you use). For example, if you have a 1200W or larger microwave oven, between one and one and a half minutes should be sufficient. If you only have a 700W microwave, you may need to cook the solution for two minutes or longer if necessary. The goal is to steam the solution without boiling or spilling out of the container. The microwave first lets the steam do most of the work for you.
Step 3: After the time is up, keep the door closed for about three minutes. This will allow the steam to heat the bottom, sides and top of the microwave.
Step 4: After waiting three minutes, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave. Be sure to use a pot holder to avoid burns.
Step 5: Wipe the sides of the microwave with a paper towel or cloth. You may need to use a stiff sponge to scrub away any stubborn food stains. We recommend that you do not use Clorox wipes.
Step 6: Remove the turntable and wash it with soap and water in the sink. You can also put the plate in the washing machine if that suits you better.
Step 7: Take a damp paper towel or cloth and add soap or disinfectant. Use this to wipe the exterior and control panel. Keep the cleaning agent away from the ventilation openings so that you do not spray it on the microwave oven. First, spray it on a paper towel or cloth.
Step 8: If you have a gasket or seal on your microwave, you can clean it with a wet paper towel or cloth. Be sure to wipe the wheel as well. Take a dry paper towel and wipe off any soap residue left on the inside of the microwave.
Step 9: Once you’re done cleaning the wheels and turntable, put them back in the microwave.
Step 10: Now you can use your flawless microwave oven to cook everything you need.
Dan Baker/Digital Trends
Tips for cleaning your microwave oven
- If you don’t have dishwashing liquid or vinegar, you can put half a lemon in a bowl of water and boil for five minutes. This all-natural cleaning option comes with the bonus of a fresh citrus scent.
- Warming the sponge in the microwave will clean it.
- Never use strong or abrasive chemicals to clean the microwave oven.
- Keep your microwave clean and prevent spills by covering food while it’s heating inside.
- When heating food prone to splatter, use a low power setting and clean up any spills immediately.
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Source: newstars.edu.vn