Best Way To Clean Microwave
The microwave is something that is often overlooked when it comes to cleaning – we simply use it, then forget about it. But, it needs cleaning as much as the rest of your appliances!
If you are not sure how, have a look through our list of the best way to clean microwave – this will make your job much easier.
Best Way To Clean Microwave
Interestingly, one of the most effective ways to clean the microwave is actually one of the easiest and most simple – and you only need things you probably already have!
- Take a microwave safe bowl and fill it with a solution of 1 cup of water, 1tbsp of white vinegar and 1tbsp of lemon juice.
- You can substitute the vinegar and lemon juice for baking soda if you wish – this is particularly effective for smelly microwaves.
- Place the bowl inside and turn the microwave on high for 2-5 minutes, then allow the dish to cool before removing.
- Wipe down the inside of the microwave with a clean cloth following this, and you should be rewarded with some extra cleanliness!
According to a survey, only around 17% of us clean our microwaves every day, and some of us admit to never cleaning it at all!
This is a sure fire way to risk health problems, a less effective microwave, or having more serious issues such as fire hazards.
Giving your microwave a wipe down after every use is quick, easy, and will make life – and food – better in the long run.
For those who like visual instructions, here’s a good video showing you how to easily clean your microwave:
What Is The Easiest Way To Clean A Very Dirty Microwave?
With a very dirty microwave that has not been cleaned for a long time, the process may take a little longer and have a few more steps…
Start by trying to remove any large pieces of dried-on food – use a soft cloth for this and avoid anything abrasive.
Next, place a dish of hot water into the microwave and run it on high for 5 minutes. This should encourage the food particles to slide off more easily.
If you have really stubborn food stains and particles that cannot be removed this way, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply this. Let it sit for 5 minutes then rub gently with warm, clean water.
Remove the turntable and give it a good soak in some hot, soapy water then let it air dry before you put it back in.
Wipe down the sides and the door thoroughly – white vinegar or lemon juice is the easiest and most natural way to do this.
Give the outside of the door a thorough wipe down with some window cleaner – this will freshen it up no end, and means that you can actually see your food again!
Finally, add a dish of vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice to the microwave and heat it for 5 minutes. This will disinfect and remove unpleasant odours.
You can also buy any number of specifically designed microwave cleaners – these are widely available and you should be able to get them from a supermarket.
If you really hate cleaning your microwave, you can also enlist professionals who will come and do it for you – but it really is simple and easy to do at home, so why not just go for it?
What Not To Do When Cleaning A Microwave?
Microwaves look fairly sturdy, but there are certain things that they really won’t appreciate. Cleaning them is simple, but there are some things that you shouldn’t do.
- Leaving the microwave plugged in is the first big no no – always unplug it before cleaning to avoid electrical problems.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners as these can damage the surface and the elements of your microwave.
- Do not scrub too hard at the inside of your microwave, as you run the risk of damaging the interior surfaces.
- You should not use bleach products in your microwave, as these can remain in the microwave and leach into your food.
- Ammonia, Lysol or Clorox should definitely be avoided, as these contain chemicals that can damage the microwave itself.
Is It OK To Use A Dirty Microwave?
In short, no, not really! Using a dirty microwave can cause all sorts of problems to you, your health, and even your home.
If you don’t wipe off food stains and splatters, this can build up and enter the food you are cooking, which can cause health problems.
No one wants to be eating old, reheated food – this can grow all types of bacteria and can lead to problems such as food poisoning.
If you continue using your dirty microwave, you can also damage the microwave itself, leading to a costly replacement.
In a worst-case scenario, a dirty microwave can actually catch fire, which could potentially burn down your whole house.
Just remember to give it a wipe round after each use, and give it a thorough cleaning once a week, and everything should be fine.
What Happens If You Don’t Clean The Microwave?
I get it, no one likes cleaning… But, if you don’t keep your microwave clean then you are opening the door to all sorts of problems.
Grease, grime and food particles can build up inside your microwave, causing not only germs and bacteria, which are bad for your health, but also problems with the microwave itself.
If you don’t clear up food splatters in your microwave, you can actually decrease its performance, and this will void any warranty you may have.
Not only this, it could create a fire hazard, which could be potentially devastating for your home and your family!
If you don’t believe me, here’s a little article explaining the reasons why you shouldn’t use a dirty microwave.
Final Words
Keeping cooking appliances clean will reduce unpleasant odours, and also reduce the spread of germs and bacteria – so it really is quite important.
Now that you have an idea of the best way to clean microwave, you can keep this convenient cooking device sparkling and also increase its lifespan.
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Nicky Ellis
Nicky is an editor-in-chief at Clean House Fast. She is a mum of three and lives in London with her family. She enjoys keeping her house stylish and clean as much as her morning yoga sessions.
