Easy Steps: How to Get Onion Smell Out of Microwave

by

My oh my, have you ever experienced that pungent onion smell lingering in your microwave? It can really throw a wrench into your culinary adventures, as no one wants their delicious popcorn or reheated leftovers tainted with the aroma of onions. But fret not, my friend! I have discovered some easy steps to banish that onion smell from your microwave once and for all. So, put on your apron and let’s get rid of that offensive odor!

The Culprit – Why Does Onion Smell Linger in the Microwave?

The Smelly Science Behind It

Before diving into the hacks, it’s essential to understand why the onion smell tends to cling to your microwave. When you heat onions in the microwave, their strong aroma fills the confined space, infiltrating the walls and any other surfaces in its path. The intensity of the smell depends on various factors, such as how long the onions were heated and the power of your microwave.

Banishing the Scent: Time for Some Cleaning Magic!

Gather Your Cleaning Arsenal

To successfully eliminate the onion smell from your microwave, you’ll need a few common household items that you probably already have on hand:

  • Vinegar

  • Lemon Juice

  • Baking Soda

  • Water

  • A Microwave-Safe Bowl

    • Step 1: Start with Vinegar

    We’ll begin our battle against the pungent onion smell with the help of vinegar. Vinegar is known for its odor-neutralizing properties, making it an ideal choice for tackling tough smells. Follow these simple steps:

  • Pour equal parts vinegar and water into a microwave-safe bowl. Half a cup of each should be enough.

  • Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for about 3-5 minutes or until the mixture starts to boil. The steam will help loosen any stuck-on food particles and the vinegar will neutralize the onion odor.

  • Leave the bowl in the microwave for a few additional minutes to let the steam work its magic.

    • Step 2: Lemon Freshness

    Now that the vinegar has done its job, let’s move on to the next step using the natural deodorizing power of lemons.

  • Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water.

  • Add the juice of one lemon or a few tablespoons of lemon juice to the water.

  • Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for 2-3 minutes, allowing the steam to distribute throughout the interior of the microwave.

  • Keep the door closed for a couple of minutes after heating to let the lemony steam continue its deodorizing action.

    • Step 3: Baking Soda Finish

    To ensure the complete removal of the onion smell, we’re going to employ the mighty baking soda. This kitchen staple is known for its ability to absorb unpleasant odors. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Take a small bowl or an open box of baking soda and place it in the microwave.

  • Leave the baking soda in the microwave for at least 24 hours to allow it to absorb any remaining odors.

  • Once the time is up, remove the baking soda and discard it.

    • Step 4: Wipe Down and Enjoy Freshness

    After successfully completing the previous steps, you’ve almost won the battle against the lingering onion smell. Now, the final step involves a little bit of cleaning to leave your microwave fresh and ready for your next culinary endeavors.

  • Dampen a microfiber cloth or sponge with warm water.

  • Gently wipe down the interior of the microwave, making sure to remove any residual vinegar, lemon, or baking soda.

  • Don’t forget to clean the microwave’s exterior as well!

    • Avoiding Future Odor Battles

    Prevention is always better than cure, and the same goes for keeping your microwave smelling fresh and delightful. Here are a few tips to help you avoid future odor battles:

  • Cover your food while heating it in the microwave. This will prevent strong odors from permeating the appliance.

  • Use a microwave-safe cover or a microwave-safe plate placed on top of bowls or plates to reduce any potential splatters and spills.

  • Clean up any spills or messes immediately to prevent them from becoming stubborn stains or causing unpleasant odors.

  • Perform regular cleaning routines to maintain a fresh-smelling microwave.

    • Conclusion

    Say goodbye to those overpowering onion odors in your microwave by following these simple steps. The power of vinegar, lemon, and baking soda will work wonders, banishing the scent and leaving your microwave smelling fresh and ready to handle your culinary endeavors. Remember, a clean and odor-free microwave will only enhance the joy of your cooking adventures. So, go ahead and enjoy your delicious meals without the fear of any unwanted aromas!

    Leave a Comment