Growing up, I always used to admire my mom’s cooking skills. She had this magical way of transforming simple ingredients into delicious meals that left us licking our plates clean. But along with her culinary prowess came a greasy kitchen. No matter how careful she was, the stove and the microwave range hood were always covered in a thin film of oil and grime. It was a struggle to keep the kitchen looking pristine, and the microwave range hood seemed to be the biggest challenge of all.
Over the years, I have learned a few tricks that make the process of cleaning the microwave range hood a breeze. I have perfected my technique, and today, I am going to share my step-by-step guide on how to clean your microwave range hood.
Gather your supplies
Before you embark on your cleaning mission, make sure you have all the necessary supplies at hand. Here’s a list of everything you will need:
– Dish soap or a grease-cutting cleaner
– Warm water
– Microfiber cloth or paper towels
– Toothbrush or small cleaning brush
– Baking soda
– Vinegar
– Plastic bag
Step 1: Remove and clean the grease filters
Start by turning off the range hood and unplugging it from the power source. Most microwave range hoods have removable grease filters that can be easily accessed. Take them out and soak them in warm water mixed with dish soap or a grease-cutting cleaner. Let them sit for a few minutes to allow the grease to loosen. Afterward, scrub them gently with a soft brush or toothbrush to remove any stubborn residue. Rinse them thoroughly and let them air dry before putting them back.
Step 2: Wipe down the exterior
Now that the grease filters are out of the way, it’s time to focus on the exterior of the microwave range hood. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a bucket or sink. Dip a microfiber cloth or paper towel into the soapy water and wring it out. Gently wipe down the exterior surface of the range hood, paying extra attention to areas with visible grease build-up. For stubborn stains, you can dip a toothbrush into the soapy water and scrub gently. Once you are satisfied, rinse the cloth or paper towel and wipe away any soapy residue from the surface.
Step 3: Tackle the greasy interior
Now it’s time to clean the interior of the microwave range hood, where most of the grease tends to accumulate. Mix a paste of baking soda and water to create a natural cleaning solution. Apply the paste to the areas with stubborn grease and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the grime. Then, using a soft cloth or sponge, scrub the interior surface of the range hood. For hard-to-reach spots, use a toothbrush or a small cleaning brush. Once you’ve removed the grease, rinse the surface with clean water and wipe it dry with a cloth.
Step 4: Deodorize with vinegar
After the thorough cleaning, it’s time to eliminate any lingering odors. Fill a small bowl with white vinegar and place it inside your microwave range hood. Leave it overnight or for several hours to absorb any unpleasant smells. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and will leave your range hood smelling fresh and clean.
Step 5: Wipe down the control panel
Don’t forget about the control panel! Wipe it gently with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any grease or dust that may have accumulated. Be careful not to use too much water or cleaning solution, as this can damage the sensitive electronics.
Step 6: Maintain cleanliness
Now that your microwave range hood is sparkling clean, it’s essential to establish a regular cleaning routine. Wipe down the exterior and control panel regularly to prevent grease build-up. Clean the grease filters at least once a month, or more often if you cook frequently. By staying on top of maintenance, you can keep your microwave range hood in pristine condition for years to come.
Cleaning the microwave range hood may have seemed like a daunting task before, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to tackle it with ease. Remember to gather your supplies, remove and clean the grease filters, wipe down the exterior and interior, deodorize with vinegar, clean the control panel, and establish a regular cleaning routine. With these simple steps, your microwave range hood will always be spotless, and your kitchen will have that fresh, inviting feel. Happy cleaning!