I’ve always been a bit of a klutz in the kitchen. My culinary creations often involve a splash of this and a dollop of that, and before I know it, my stove and countertops are covered in a greasy mess. As if that wasn’t bad enough, my over the range microwave always seems to get the brunt of it. I could never figure out how to clean the grease off without making an even bigger mess. That is, until I stumbled upon a step-by-step guide that changed the game for me. So, if you’re like me and need a little help in the kitchen clean-up department, keep reading to discover the secrets to a spotless over the range microwave.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you can dive into cleaning, it’s important to have all the necessary supplies on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
Warm Water and Dish Soap:
A mixture of warm water and dish soap is a simple yet effective cleaning solution for removing grease from your over the range microwave. The warm water helps to loosen the grease, while the dish soap breaks down the oils.
Microfiber Cloth:
A microfiber cloth is perfect for wiping away the grease and leaving your microwave sparkling clean. Its soft fibers are gentle enough to use on the microwave’s exterior without scratching the surface.
Scrub Brush or Toothbrush:
For those hard-to-reach nooks and crannies, a small scrub brush or toothbrush will come in handy. These tools allow you to scrub away stubborn grease without causing any damage.
Vinegar and Water Solution:
If your microwave has stubborn, stuck-on grease, a vinegar and water solution can work wonders. The acidity of the vinegar helps to break down the grease and make it easier to wipe away.
Step 1: Remove the Turntable and Grease Filters
The first step in cleaning your over the range microwave is to remove the turntable and grease filters. These parts can usually be easily lifted or unscrewed, depending on the model of your microwave. Take them out and set them aside for cleaning.
Step 2: Wipe Down the Interior
Now that you have the interior of your microwave exposed, it’s time to start cleaning. Dip your microfiber cloth into the warm water and dish soap mixture and wring out any excess liquid. Gently wipe down the interior surfaces, paying extra attention to areas with visible grease spots. For tougher grease stains, you can use a scrub brush or toothbrush to work the cleaning solution into the surface.
Step 3: Clean the Turntable and Grease Filters
While the interior of your microwave is drying, take the opportunity to clean the turntable and grease filters. Using warm, soapy water and a sponge or cloth, scrub away any grease or debris. Rinse them thoroughly and set them aside to dry completely.
Step 4: Tackle Stuck-on Grease
If you notice any stubborn, stuck-on grease stains in your microwave, it’s time to bring out the vinegar and water solution. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with equal parts vinegar and water and place it in the microwave. Heat the mixture on high for a few minutes until it starts to steam. The steam will help loosen the grease, making it easier to wipe away. Carefully remove the bowl and wipe down the interior once again with your microfiber cloth.
Step 5: Reassemble and Enjoy
Once you’ve completed all the cleaning steps, it’s time to reassemble your over the range microwave. Make sure the interior is completely dry before putting the turntable and grease filters back in. Give the exterior surfaces a final wipe down with your microfiber cloth to remove any stray grease. Now, sit back and enjoy your squeaky clean microwave!
Cleaning the grease off an over the range microwave may have seemed like an insurmountable task in the past, but with this step-by-step guide, it’s a breeze. By gathering your supplies and following these simple instructions, you’ll have a spotless microwave in no time. So, go ahead and explore your culinary creativity, knowing that you can easily clean up any mess you make. Happy cooking!