I remember the first time I attempted to clean my microwave. It was a disaster. No matter how hard I scrubbed, those stubborn grease stains just wouldn’t budge. But over the years, I’ve learned a few tried and tested tricks to achieve sparkling results. Today, I am going to share my secrets with you. So, put on your cleaning gloves and let’s dive into the world of microwave cleaning!
The Magic of Lemon and Water
Gather Your Supplies
Before we start, make sure you have all the necessary supplies at hand. You’ll need a microwave-safe bowl, lemon, water, a cloth or sponge, and possibly some dish soap.
The Lemon Steam Method
This is my go-to method for cleaning the microwave, as it is simple and incredibly effective. To start, squeeze the juice of one lemon into a bowl of water. Drop the lemon halves into the bowl as well. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for about three minutes or until the water starts to steam.
Lemon Power and Steam
Once the microwave beeps, don’t open the door immediately. Let the bowl sit inside for another five minutes. The steam generated by the lemon-infused water will have loosened the grime and food particles, making them easier to wipe away.
The Final Touch
After about five minutes, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave. Caution: the bowl will be hot! Use oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands. Now, take a damp cloth or sponge and wipe down the inside of the microwave. You’ll be amazed at how easily the dirt and stains come off.
Baking Soda and Vinegar: A Dynamic Duo
If your microwave is in dire need of a deep clean, using baking soda and vinegar is a winning combination.
Create a Cleaning Paste
For this method, you’ll need three tablespoons of baking soda and one tablespoon of water. Mix the two ingredients together until you have a thick paste. Then, apply the paste to the inside of the microwave, focusing on the most stubborn spots.
Vinegar Power
Next, pour some vinegar into a microwave-safe bowl or cup. Place it inside the microwave and heat on high for two minutes. The vinegar will create steam, which will help loosen the dirt and grime.
Scrub Away
Once the microwave stops, open the door and carefully remove the bowl of vinegar. Again, use oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands from the hot bowl. Now, take a damp cloth or sponge and scrub away the dirt, using circular motions. The baking soda paste will lift the stains, leaving your microwave sparkling clean.
Preventive Measures for a Cleaner Microwave
Cleaning your microwave regularly can save you from the hassle of dealing with tough stains. Here are a few preventive measures you can take to keep your microwave looking new:
Cover Your Food
One of the main reasons for a dirty microwave is food splatter. To prevent this, cover your dishes with microwave-safe lids or use microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will ensure that the mess stays contained and doesn’t end up caked onto the walls of your microwave.
Wipe Down After Every Use
After each use, take a quick moment to wipe down the inside of your microwave. This will prevent stains and spills from drying and becoming harder to clean later on.
Absorb Odors with Baking Soda
Microwaves can sometimes develop unpleasant odors. To combat this, place a small dish of baking soda inside the microwave when it’s not in use. Baking soda is excellent at absorbing unwanted smells.
The Final Verdict
Cleaning your microwave does not have to be a dreaded chore. With a few simple techniques and some household items, you can achieve sparkling results effortlessly.
Lemon-infused water is a magical solution for quick and easy cleaning. The steam generated by this method will loosen dirt and stains, making them easy to wipe away.
If you have tougher stains, try using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. The baking soda paste will remove stubborn dirt, while the vinegar steam will make your microwave shine.
Lastly, remember to take preventive measures, such as covering your food and wiping down after each use. This will keep your microwave looking pristine and save you time and effort in the long run.
Now, armed with these microwave cleaning secrets, go forth and conquer the grease and grime that have taken residence in your microwave. Clean with confidence and revel in the joy of a sparkling kitchen appliance!