Quick and Easy Solutions: How to Get Burnt Smell Out of Microwave with Baking Soda

I love cooking. Trying out new recipes and experimenting with flavors is something that brings me immense joy. But, like every other person, I have my fair share of kitchen mishaps. And one such mishap happened just a few days ago – I burnt a bowl of popcorn in the microwave.

The smell was overwhelming. It lingered in my kitchen, spreading to the entire house. I knew I had to find a solution quickly before the odor became permanent. And that’s when I turned to my trusty companion – baking soda.

The Magic of Baking Soda

Baking soda is a versatile ingredient that can be used for various purposes. From cooking and cleaning to personal care, this humble white powder has proved its worth time and again. And when it comes to eliminating odors, baking soda works like magic.

Step 1: Remove the Burnt Food

Before we dive into the actual process of getting rid of the burnt smell, it’s important to remove any burnt food or residue from the microwave. Using oven mitts, take out the bowl or plate that caused the burnt smell. Be careful as it might still be hot.

Step 2: Create a Baking Soda Solution

Now that we have a clean slate, it’s time to create a simple baking soda solution. Take a microwave-safe bowl and fill it halfway with water. Add 2 tablespoons of baking soda and stir well until the powder dissolves. This solution will help neutralize the burnt smell and freshen up your microwave.

Step 3: Microwaving the Baking Soda Solution

Place the bowl with the baking soda solution in the microwave. Set the timer for 5 minutes and turn on the microwave. The water will start to heat up, creating steam along with the baking soda. This steam will help loosen any stuck-on particles and absorb the burnt odor.

Step 4: Wipe Down the Inside

Once the timer goes off, let the bowl sit in the microwave for a couple of minutes to allow the steam to work its magic. Then, using oven mitts, carefully remove the bowl. Be cautious as it might still be hot. Take a soft cloth or sponge and wipe down the inside of the microwave, making sure to get rid of any remaining residue or smells.

Step 5: Ventilation is Key

After you’ve wiped down the inside of the microwave, it’s crucial to allow proper ventilation. Open the microwave door and, if possible, keep a nearby window or door open to let fresh air circulate. This will help dissipate any lingering smells and leave your microwave smelling fresh and clean.

Other Tips to Keep Your Microwave Odor-Free

While baking soda is undoubtedly a quick and easy solution, there are a few additional steps you can take to keep your microwave odor-free:

Cover your food – Before microwaving any food, make sure to cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap it with a microwave-safe cover. This will prevent splatters and spills that can cause lingering odors.

Clean regularly – Just like any other appliance, your microwave requires regular cleaning. Make it a habit to wipe down the inside of the microwave after every use. Use a mild detergent and warm water to remove any food residues or smells.

Use lemon or vinegar – If baking soda isn’t readily available, you can substitute it with lemon juice or vinegar. Simply mix either of these with water and follow the same steps as mentioned earlier. Both lemon juice and vinegar have natural deodorizing properties that help eliminate odors effectively.

The Beauty of Baking Soda

Baking soda truly is a household hero. From cooking and cleaning to dealing with odors, this natural ingredient never fails to impress. It’s affordable, easily accessible, and most importantly, safe to use. So the next time you encounter a burnt smell in your microwave or any other unpleasant odor in your kitchen, remember the power of baking soda.

In no time, you’ll have a fresh-smelling microwave that’s ready for your next culinary adventure.