Chores 101: How to clean your microwave
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The microwave can quickly become dirty and full of food splatters. Here's how to give it a thorough clean using budget-friendly methods and natural ingredients.
Materials needed:
Baking soda
Dish soap
A microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup
Steps for deep cleaning your microwave:
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Fill a bowl or measuring cup with equal parts water and lemon juice.
Place it in the microwave and heat on high for 5 minutes.
Let the mixture sit in the closed microwave for an additional 5 minutes to allow the steam to loosen any buildup.
Carefully remove the bowl and wipe down the inside of the microwave with a damp cloth or sponge.
For stubborn stains, make a paste with water and baking soda, and use it as a scrub on those areas.
Dish soap mixed with warm water is effective at removing greasy buildup on the walls and door of the microwave if needed.
Rinse with a clean cloth or sponge and dry with a towel.
Tips for maintaining a clean microwave:
Cover food when heating it up to prevent splatters.
Wipe down the inside of the microwave with a damp cloth or sponge after each use.
Clean any spills or stains immediately before they have a chance to dry and become more difficult to remove.
FAQs about cleaning microwaves
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my microwave?
A: No, bleach can be too harsh for the inside of a microwave and should not be used as a cleaner.
Q: How often should I deep clean my microwave?
A: While both Maytag and Martha Stewart recommend deep cleaning your microwave once per week, pretty much everyone else says a monthly cleaning is sufficient. It depends on your needs and how dirty your microwave gets.
Q: Are there any natural alternatives to using dish soap for removing greasy buildup?
A: Yes, a mixture of vinegar and water or lemon juice and water can be effective at cutting through grease in the microwave.
Q: Can baking soda damage the interior of my microwave?
A: Baking soda is mildly abrasive but safe to use as a cleaning agent inside your microwave. It's effective at removing stuck-on food without scratching the surface for messes that require light to medium scrubbing. It can damage the surface of your microwave with excessive scrubbing and it must be rinsed away thoroughly after cleaning.
Q: What is the best way to clean the microwave's exterior?
A: For the exterior, you can use a solution of dish soap and water or your favorite household all-surface cleaner. Apply it with a soft cloth or sponge, and then wipe it down with a dry cloth to prevent streaks.
Q: Is it possible to clean my microwave with just lemon juice and water?
A: Absolutely, lemon juice mixed with water is an excellent natural cleaner that can be used to clean the microwave. Just heat the solution in the microwave, allowing it to steam, and then wipe away the loosened food particles.
Q: Do I need to take any special precautions when cleaning my microwave's turntable?
A: The turntable should be handled with care as it's typically made of glass. It can usually be removed and washed by hand with dish soap or placed in the dishwasher for a thorough clean. Just make sure it's completely dry before placing it back into the microwave.
The real key to keeping your microwave clean is to wipe up those stains, splatters, and spills as soon as they happen. Regular cleaning makes your deep cleans a breeze.
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