I gave my microwave a steam bath and it has never been cleaner. Here’s how
A microwave can be a saving grace in the kitchen. From efficient food preparation to quick meals to whipping up leftovers, there’s virtually nothing it can’t do, saving us valuable time at any time of the day.
However, a microwave can also be a kitchen hygiene nightmare if you don’t clean it properly and regularly. If you haven’t used your microwave in a while because of the splashy horror show you know awaits you when you open the door, read on. Microwave rescue is much easier than you think. I consulted several cleaning experts for their opinions on how to properly clean a microwave.
Why it’s important to clean your microwave
Keeping your microwave clean is not only about impressing your in-laws, but can also have an effect on the usability of your appliance. “A clean microwave prevents cross-contamination of flavors and avoids the build-up of bacteria from food splashes,” says Galia Ivanova, CEO of Cleaning estimatea British cleaning service. “I’ve seen microwaves where old residue not only causes unpleasant odors, but also affects the efficiency of the appliance. Regular cleaning ensures that your food tastes as it should and that your microwave lasts longer.”
Bacterial buildup from splashes can be a serious hygiene problem. “Since the microwave is one of the most used kitchen appliances, when dirty it can be a haven for bacteria and foodborne illness,” said Delah Gomasi, Managing Director and CEO of MaidForYouwho adds that microwave cleaning is one of the first training modules that cleaners at MaidForYou must undergo as it is directly linked to overall customer satisfaction.
First and foremost, try to keep your microwave clean
A microwave needs cleaning just like everything else in the kitchen.
Regular – and prompt – attention to your microwave can keep it in such a condition that you don’t have to worry about it or clean it often.
The best way to keep your microwave clean is to… microwave safe food cover” says Gomasi. “This means that any spills won’t end up in the microwave entirely and will only contaminate the food cover itself, which can be easily washed.” A damp paper towel can also act as a barrier against splatters when you’re cooking. heat something in a standard bowl or plate.
If splatter does occur, “I recommend wiping the microwave immediately after a spill occurs,” says Ivanova. This is much easier to do if there are spills that are still fresh before they have a chance to dry and adhere to the walls of your appliance.
Read more: Skip the Microwave: Expert Tips for Reheating Your Leftovers
The easiest 2 minute hack for cleaning a microwave
Cleaning your microwave is as easy as using your microwave; no special products or supplies are required. You’re basically giving it a steam bath. “I have found that the easiest way to clean a microwave without the use of harmful chemicals or cleaning products is to put vinegar and water in a microwave-safe bowl for two minutes,” says Gomasi. A tablespoon or two of white or distilled vinegar with a cup of water is sufficient. You just need to blast it long enough to cook and steam.
Using vinegar is an effective and natural way to clean your device.
“Once that’s done, wait another two minutes before using a damp cloth to wipe down the inside of the microwave,” he says. “It may take several times, but this is the most effective way to clean your microwave.” The acid in the vinegar steam can break down and soften particles, making them easy to wipe away. “It is environmentally friendly, simple and effective in removing accumulated food waste,” says Gomasi.
You can use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe down your microwave after using the vinegar.
Lemon juice or lemon peels can also be used this way for a fresher scent or for a different flavor. “One of my favorite methods is using herbal steaming,” says Ivanova, who recommends fresh mint, rosemary, thyme or other aromatic herbs. vinegar in the steam bath. The steam still helps break down pieces without the acid, and the essential oils leave your kitchen with a pleasant smell.
The glass turntable in your microwave can be washed in the dishwasher or by hand.
How often should you clean your microwave?
If you do the above after each microwave use or whenever a spill occurs, you will not need to undergo the steam bath treatment more than once a month.
However, if you’re more haphazard about covering your items, “we typically recommend that our customers clean their microwave at least twice a week, especially if they are not using a microwave-safe food cover to prevent spills,” says Gomasi. “You’d be surprised how many people don’t do this.”
Try this for lingering microwave odor
Is there anything baking soda can’t do?
If you’ve given your microwave the vinegar steam bath a few times and you’re still dealing with stubborn stains or a lingering odor, you may need a little more metaphorical power, but major scrubbing is still not necessary.
“For a deep clean, I make a natural paste with equal parts baking soda and coconut oil,” says Ivanova. “Apply this paste to interior surfaces, especially on stubborn stains, and let it sit for 15 minutes. The baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive, while the coconut oil breaks down grease,” she says. “Then wipe it off with a warm, damp cloth” to keep your microwave clean and subtly scented.
Ivanova also has a hack to keep odors at bay all the time. “Place a small bowl filled with dry coffee grounds at the back of your microwave when it’s not in use,” she says. “The coffee grounds absorb lingering odors and moisture, keeping the inside fresh. Remember to remove the bowl before using the microwave.”
Read more: Guide to Cleaning Your Home: A Step-by-Step Cheat Sheet to Deep Cleaning Your Home
Don’t forget to disinfect
Finally, while vinegar is a useful cleaning agent, it does not meet the standard to be considered a disinfectant by the government Environmental Protection Agencyso for some final reassurance, it’s best to wipe down your microwave with some real disinfectant.
Disinfecting your microwave will prevent it from becoming home to mold and other unwanted organisms.
“Make sure you use a non-toxic disinfectant to keep germs at bay,” says Lana Tkachenko, Eco-Friendly Cleaning Expert and Marketing Director at Power of nature. “Your microwave comes into contact with the food you eat, so you don’t want to use anything to clean it that you don’t also want to put in your mouth.”
Read more: How often should you clean your oven? The answer may surprise you
