Cleaning Your Microwave Has Never Been Easier Thanks to This Quick Hack
Keeping your kitchen appliances clean is more important than you think, especially the microwave, which can become dirty from food splashes and overflows and can affect both hygiene and performance if left unchecked. This is a concern we’ve seen frequently on Reddit, with many wondering how to keep a microwave clean. So we searched for the answers and spoke with experts to discover the best ways to maintain a microwave do the housework.
Whatever mess you’re facing, a few simple cleaning products and the tips we have on hand will help you keep this small but mighty kitchen appliance in good shape.
Why it is important to clean your microwave
Keeping your microwave clean is important for more than just aesthetic reasons.
Keeping your microwave clean isn’t just about impressing the in-laws; this may affect the usefulness of your device. “A clean microwave prevents cross-contamination of flavors and avoids bacteria buildup from food splatters,” says Galia Ivanova, CEO of Cleaning Estimate, a UK-based cleaning service. “I’ve seen microwaves where old residue not only causes unpleasant odors, but also affects the efficiency of the appliance. Regular cleaning ensures that your food tastes as it should and your microwave lasts longer.”
Bacteria buildup from splashes can be a serious hygiene problem. “Considering that the microwave is one of the most used kitchen appliances, if it is dirty, it can be a haven for bacteria and food-borne illnesses,” says Delah Gomasi, CEO of MaidForYou, who adds that microwave cleaning is one of the first training modules that MaidForYou cleaners must complete, as it is directly linked to overall customer satisfaction.
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Try to keep your microwave clean first
A microwave needs cleaning, just like everything else in the kitchen.
Regular – and timely – attention to your microwave can help it stay in such condition that you don’t have to worry about it or need to clean it very often.
“The best way to keep your microwave clean is to use a microwave safe food cover“, explains Gomasi. “This means that any spills will not fully enter the microwave and will only dirty the food cover itself, which can be easily washed. “A damp paper towel can also act as a splatter barrier if you’re heating something in a standard bowl or plate.
In case of spills, “I recommend wiping down the microwave immediately after any spills,” says Ivanova. This is much easier to do with spills that are still fresh before they have had a chance to dry and stick to the walls of your appliance.
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The Easiest 2-Minute Hack for Cleaning a Microwave
Cleaning your microwave is as easy as using your microwave, no specialized products or supplies needed. Basically, you’re giving it a steam bath. “I’ve found that the easiest way to clean a microwave without using harsh chemicals or cleaning products is to microwave vinegar and water in a microwave-safe bowl for 2 minutes,” says Gomasi. One or two tablespoons of white or distilled vinegar with a cup of water is enough. You’ll just need to neutralize it long enough to boil and steam it.
Using vinegar is an effective and natural way to clean your microwave.
“Once that’s done, wait another two minutes before using a damp cloth to wipe down the inside of the microwave,” he says. “It may take several passes, but it is the most effective way to clean your microwave.” The acid in the vinegar vapor can break down and soften the particles, making them easy to wipe away. “It’s eco-friendly, simple and effective in eliminating… food spills,” says Gomasi.
You can use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe down your microwave after using the vinegar.
Lemon juice or lemon zest can also be used in this way for a fresher scent or another take. “One of my favorite methods is to use herbal steam,” says Ivanova, who recommends fresh mint, rosemary, thyme or other aromatic herbs in place of vinegar in the steam bath. The steam will still help break down the bits without acid, and the essential oils will leave your kitchen smelling nice.
The glass turntable in your microwave can be put in the dishwasher or washed by hand.
How often should you clean your microwave?
If you do the above after every use of the microwave or in case of a spill, you shouldn’t have to give it a steam bath more than once a month.
If you’re more hesitant about covering your items, “we generally recommend our customers clean their microwave at least twice a week, especially if they don’t use a microwave-safe food cover to prevent spills,” says Gomasi. “You’d be surprised how many people don’t do that.”
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For a lingering microwave smell, try this
Is there anything baking soda can’t do?
If you’ve given your microwave a vinegar steam bath a few times and still have stuck-on stains or a lingering odor, you might need a little more metaphorical muscle, but a major scrub still isn’t necessary.
“For a deep clean, I make a natural paste using equal parts baking soda and coconut oil,” says Ivanova. “Apply this paste to interior surfaces, especially stubborn stains, and let it sit for 15 minutes. The baking soda acts as a mild abrasive, while the coconut oil breaks down grease,” she explains. “Then wipe it with a warm, damp cloth,” which should leave your microwave clean and subtly scented.
Ivanova also has a tip for continually reducing odors. “Place a small bowl filled with dry coffee grounds in the bottom of your microwave when you’re not using it,” she explains. “Coffee grounds absorb lingering odors and moisture, keeping the inside fresh. Remember to remove the bowl before using the microwave.”
Learn more: The Best Way to Deep Clean Your Home
Don’t forget to disinfect
Although vinegar is a useful cleaning agent, it does not meet the standard to be considered a disinfectant by the Environmental Protection Agency, so for one last reassurance, you’ll want to wipe down your microwave with an actual disinfectant.
Sanitizing your microwave will prevent it from becoming a hotbed for mold and germs.
“Be sure to use a non-toxic disinfectant to keep germs away,” says Lana Tkachenko, green cleaning expert and marketing director at Force of nature. “Your microwave comes in contact with the food you eat, so you don’t want to use anything to clean it that you don’t also want to put in your mouth.”
Learn more: Having trouble removing grease and grime from your oven? Here is the best way to do it
