I have always been a stickler for cleanliness. There is just something so satisfying about seeing everything in its proper place and shining bright. One area of my kitchen that always seemed to give me trouble was the microwave. With all the splatters and spills that happen inside it, keeping it clean seemed like an impossible task. That’s when I decided to dive headfirst into the world of degreasing a microwave. I researched and experimented with various methods, and I’m happy to share my findings with you. In this article, I will guide you through quick and easy ways to degrease your microwave, so you can keep your appliance sparkling clean.
My Personal Experience with a Greasy Microwave
It all started with a plate of delicious bacon
A few weeks ago, I decided to treat myself to a plate of crispy bacon. Little did I know that this innocent indulgence would launch me on a mission to clean my microwave. As I eagerly placed the bacon in a microwave-safe dish and set the timer, little pops and sizzles filled the air, heralding the impending deliciousness. Once the bacon was cooked to perfection, I opened the microwave door, and to my horror, I was greeted by a greasy mess. Splatters of bacon fat covered the walls, the ceiling, and the turntable. It was a sight I couldn’t ignore, so I rolled up my sleeves and got to work.
Method 1: The Power of Steam
Here’s what you’ll need:
Step 1: Fill the bowl
I started by filling a microwave-safe bowl with equal parts vinegar and water. You can also use lemon juice instead of vinegar if you prefer a citrusy scent.
Step 2: Microwave on high
Next, I placed the bowl inside the microwave and set the timer for five minutes on high power. As the mixture heated up, steam began to fill the microwave, loosening the grease and grime.
Step 3: Let it sit
After the five minutes were up, I let the bowl sit in the microwave for a few more minutes to allow the steam to work its magic.
Step 4: Wipe away
Once the waiting period was over, I carefully removed the bowl using oven mitts to avoid any burns. With a microfiber cloth, I wiped away the now-loose grease from the microwave’s interior surfaces. The stubborn stains required a bit more elbow grease, but the steam had definitely made the job easier.
Method 2: Baking Soda and Water Paste
Here’s what you’ll need:
Step 1: Make a paste
For this method, I mixed equal parts baking soda and water in a small bowl to form a paste. Baking soda is known for its cleaning properties, making it an excellent choice for tackling grease.
Step 2: Apply the paste
Using a sponge or cloth, I applied the baking soda paste to the greasy areas inside the microwave. I made sure to cover all the splatters and stains, giving them a good scrub with the paste.
Step 3: Let it sit and work its magic
After generously applying the baking soda paste, I closed the microwave door and let the mixture sit for around 15-20 minutes. During this time, the baking soda absorbed the grease, making it easier to clean.
Step 4: Wipe it clean
Once the waiting period was over, I dampened a cloth with water and used it to wipe away the baking soda paste. The grease and grime came off effortlessly, leaving my microwave looking brand new.
Method 3: The Trusty Dish Soap
Here’s what you’ll need:
Step 1: Dish soap solution
To clean my microwave using dish soap, I mixed a few drops of dish soap with warm water to create a soapy solution.
Step 2: Soak the sponge
I soaked a sponge or cloth in the soapy solution, ensuring it was thoroughly saturated.
Step 3: Scrub away
With the soapy sponge in hand, I started scrubbing the greasy spots inside the microwave. The dish soap helped to break down the grease, making it easier to remove.
Step 4: Rinse and wipe
After scrubbing, I rinsed the sponge in clean water and used it to wipe away the soapy residue. It was important to rinse well to avoid leaving any soap behind, as that could affect the taste and smell of future microwaved food.
Keep Your Microwave Sparkling Clean
With these quick and easy methods, you too can achieve a sparkling clean microwave. Whether you prefer the power of steam, the effectiveness of baking soda paste, or the simplicity of dish soap, there’s a method that suits your cleaning style. Regular maintenance and a little bit of elbow grease will ensure that your microwave remains free of grease and grime.
Remember, safety is paramount when dealing with microwaves. Always unplug the appliance before cleaning, and take necessary precautions to avoid burns. Now, armed with these proven methods, go forth and conquer the greasy mess in your microwave. Your sparkling clean appliance awaits!