Whether you find cleaning to be therapeutic or a tedious chore, scrubbing down central spaces in your home is a task you should prioritize. Living in a dirt-ridden, germ-infested house filled to the brim with clutter not only affects your physical health but can also wreak havoc on your mental wellbeing. Between a weakened immune system, dust-induced respiratory issues, and amplified anxiety, the cost of a dirty home is steep.
In particular, keeping a squeaky clean kitchen is especially important in preventing dirt and grime from contaminating the food you prepare and infesting your digestive system. Kitchens are often high-traffic areas, a perfect breeding ground for various bacteria, fungus, and rust to build up, potentially compromising your health. Because the risk of cross-contamination is high, a thorough clean, including consistent appliance maintenance, is essential.
Unfortunately, many people overlook their appliances— specifically microwaves —during routine cleans. Although it may not seem like you need to clean your microwave often, splattered food residue can contaminate other dishes, increase the risk of fires, and decrease your device’s efficiency. Fortunately, there are several tried-and-true microwave cleaning hacks sure to dissolve the toughest caked-on stains.
If you’ve peaked into your microwave only to find a smelly, food-based ink-blot test staring back at you, read on for five easy hacks for a spotless surface.
When to replace your microwave
Before you spend needless time and money on cleaning efforts, make sure your microwave isn’t a lost cause. Although the below methods can break down and sanitize most residue, some worn-down microwave ovens will need more than a little TLC can give. If your appliance is smoking when used, producing half-cooked food, or losing the seal around the door, it may be time to throw in the towel and purchase a newer model.
Ultimately, broken-down, overused microwaves are more fuss than their worth. Luckily, smaller appliances are easily replaceable, and new-and-improved versions outperform their counterparts every time. Consider the space available in your kitchen, how much power you’ll need, and additional features before purchasing a high-quality microwave like those at Goedeker’s.
For those salvageable appliances (that only require a run-of-the-mill rinse-and-repeat treatment), utilize the cleaning tips below for a well-manicured microwave.
The lemon
The first cleaning method to bat is a simple classic, requiring only water, a lemon, a bowl, and a rag. Simply fill a microwave-safe dish with water, place a sliced lemon in the bowl, and microwave until boiling—between 4 and 7 minutes, depending on your power settings. The steam from the bubbling water and the acidity from the citrus will loosen hardened food, enabling you to wipe down the surface with ease. Not only will your microwave be sparkling, but the lemon will also leave you with a fresh, clean scent.
Baking soda
Although a quick wipe down can take care of simple spills and splatters, sometimes food lodges itself into the turn plate crevices and hardens onto the microwave floor. For tougher stains refusing to budge, try baking soda paste and watch the mess disappear before your eyes. Simply combine two parts baking soda and one part water into a paste-like consistency, smear across stubborn stains, and let sit for five to ten minutes.
Once the time is up, wipe off the remaining residue with a sponge and finish the job with a paper towel or two. Not only will baking soda dissolve food with ease, but it will also neutralize any foul, leftover smells.
Vinegar
Alongside baking soda, vinegar is an excellent solution for stains stuck to the surface of your microwave. If you’ve been fighting with the marinara ring on your turntable, consider spraying down the area with vinegar before wiping the glass clean. Vinegar is highly acidic, an agent that breaks down food residue with ease.
Another vinegar-based method combines the power of baking soda with the liquid for an extra clean surface. Simply use the same water-baking soda mixture as before, spreading it across the stain, and microwave a bowl of equal parts water and vinegar as an added step. Not only will this method zap stubborn stains and soften hardened residue, but it will also leave you with a sanitized, smell-free microwave.
Dish soap
Like the vinegar method, you can use dish soap diluted in warm water to loosen grime and sanitize the surface of your microwave. Make sure you put a sizable amount of dish soap into the bowl of water and microwave until it begins to bubble. Soap-infused steam will allow you to quickly clear out unwanted food residue without scrubbing your arms sore. After you’ve done an initial wipe-down, add your dish soap to a sponge and dive into tougher stains, working it into corners and crevices.
Diluted window cleaner
This method is perfect for those wanting a streak-free, clean surface inside and out. Mix window cleaner and water in a bowl, and soak a sponge in the solution. Once the sponge has absorbed the liquid, run it across the interior and exterior of your microwave. You can even remove the vent covers to clean any debris, wipe down the middle carousel, and scrub the glass door pane to ensure every inch of your microwave is sparkling.
Commercial cleaners
Alongside DIY methods to clean your microwave, you can also purchase several cleaners to eradicate tough dirt and grime. However, some chemical-filled solutions leave an unpleasant smell and taste after use. If you’re set on opting for store-bought products, make sure you read the complete list of ingredients to ensure you’re not contaminating your food with any harmful synthetics. You can even seek out fume-free products that guarantee a fresh, ultra-sanitary finish.
Wrapping up
Although deep cleaning your microwave may not be at the top of your priority list, it may deserve a bump up to keep you safe and your food tasty. Built-up dirt and grime can clog appliance ducts, contaminate your meals, and potentially cause fires if left for too long. To ensure your microwave continues to run smoothly, pencil in regular cleanings and maintenance utilizing easily accessible items from around your home.
