How to Remove Smell from Microwave with Lemon: Easy and Effective Tips

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My Smelly Microwave and the Magic of Lemon

Oh, the horrors of a smelly microwave! It’s happened to the best of us. Whether it’s the lingering aroma of last night’s fish or the stench of a forgotten leftover, a foul-smelling microwave can turn a simple kitchen task into a dreadful experience. But fear not! I have discovered a simple and effective solution to rid your microwave of odors, and it comes in the form of a humble lemon.

The Problem Persists

I vividly remember the day when I opened my microwave and was hit by an offensive odor that made my nose scrunch up in disgust. It seemed as though every delicious meal I had ever heated up in that microwave had left behind an unpleasant scent. I tried everything to eliminate the smell – wiping it down with vinegar, scrubbing it with baking soda, and even leaving a bowl of coffee grounds in it overnight. But no matter what I did, the smell persisted.

A Chance Encounter with Lemon

Frustrated and almost on the verge of giving up, I stumbled upon an article that claimed lemon could work wonders in eliminating microwave odors. Skeptical but desperate for a solution, I decided to give it a try. After all, what did I have to lose?

The Simple Solution

I bought a fresh lemon, cut it in half, and squeezed the juice of one half into a microwave-safe bowl. I added a cup of water and placed the other half of the lemon in the bowl as well. I then popped the bowl into the microwave and set it on high for three minutes.

As I anxiously waited, the sweet fragrance of lemon filled my kitchen. After the three minutes were up, I carefully removed the bowl from the microwave. However, before I started wiping down the interior, I let the bowl sit for a few more minutes to allow the steam to work its magic.

Wiping Away the Problem

Armed with a microfiber cloth, I gently wiped down the microwave’s interior. To my surprise and delight, the once foul smell had completely vanished! It was as if the lemon had performed a miraculous feat, erasing any trace of the smelly offenders that had plagued the microwave for so long.

Why Does Lemon Work?

Lemons are known for their natural deodorizing properties. The citric acid in the lemon juice helps break down stubborn odors and neutralizes them, leaving behind a fresh and clean scent. Furthermore, the steam generated by heating the lemon and water mixture helps loosen any dried-on food particles, making it easier to wipe away grime and stains.

Additional Tips and Tricks

If you’re faced with a particularly stubborn smell in your microwave, try these additional tips for even better results:

Before heating the lemon and water mixture, you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to enhance the scent. Lemon or lavender oil are excellent choices.

If the odor still persists after the initial treatment, repeat the process for another three minutes. This should do the trick.

For an extra deep clean, remove the turntable and any removable parts from the microwave and wash them separately in warm soapy water while the lemon steam works its magic.

Maintaining a Fresh-Smelling Microwave

Now that your microwave is free from unpleasant odors, it’s important to keep it smelling fresh and clean. Here are a few simple tips to maintain a pleasant aroma in your microwave:

After each use, wipe down the interior with a damp cloth to remove any food residue that may cause odors.

Regularly check the microwave for spills or splatters and clean them immediately.

Leave a small dish of baking soda in the microwave when it’s not in use to absorb any lingering odors.

The Magic of Lemons

In conclusion, the power of a humble lemon never ceases to amaze me. Its natural deodorizing properties combined with the steam it generates can effectively eliminate even the most stubborn odors from your microwave. So, the next time you find yourself faced with a smelly microwave, don’t despair. Just grab a lemon, give it a squeeze, and let the magic unfold before your eyes.