Olivia Carter
Keeping your microwave oven clean is essential for maintaining its efficiency and prolonging its lifespan. Over time, food particles and grease can accumulate on the interior walls, turntable, and door of your microwave, leading to unpleasant odors and even affecting the taste of your food. However, cleaning your microwave oven doesn’t have to be a daunting task.
In this article, we will provide you with simple and effective tips on how to clean your microwave oven quickly, using common household items.
Before you begin the cleaning process, it’s important to ensure that your microwave oven is unplugged and completely cool.
To start, remove any loose debris or food particles from the interior of your microwave. You can use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe away the crumbs. Next, fill a microwave-safe bowl with a mixture of water and a few tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Place the bowl inside the microwave and heat it on high for a few minutes until the liquid boils and steam covers the walls.
Step 1: Gather Supplies
In order to clean your microwave oven quickly and effectively, you will need to gather the following supplies:
1. Vinegar
Vinegar is a versatile cleaning agent that can be used for various household cleaning tasks. It is effective in removing stubborn stains and grease from your microwave oven.
2. Water
Water is essential for diluting the vinegar and creating a cleaning solution that can effectively remove dirt and grime from your microwave oven.
3. Microwave-safe bowl or cup
You will need a microwave-safe bowl or cup to hold the cleaning solution while it heats up and generates steam to loosen the dirt and grime.
4. Dishcloth or sponge
A dishcloth or sponge will be used to wipe down the interior of your microwave oven after cleaning. Make sure it is clean and free from any detergent residue.
5. Toothpick or small brush
A toothpick or small brush can be used to remove any stubborn food particles or debris from hard-to-reach areas, such as the vents or the edges of the turntable.
6. Optional: Lemon or lemon juice
Lemon or lemon juice can be added to the cleaning solution to help eliminate any lingering odors and leave your microwave oven smelling fresh and clean.
Once you have gathered all the necessary supplies, you are ready to proceed to the next step, which is preparing the cleaning solution.
What You Need
To quickly and effectively clean your microwave oven, you will need the following items:
- Vinegar: Vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that helps to cut through grease and grime.
- Water: Water is needed to create a solution with vinegar for cleaning.
- Microwave-safe bowl: You will need a bowl that is safe to use in the microwave to hold the cleaning solution.
- Lemon or lemon juice (optional): Lemon is a natural deodorizer and can help to eliminate any odors in your microwave.
- Microwave-safe sponge or cloth: You will need a sponge or cloth that is safe to use in the microwave to wipe down the interior.
- Dish soap: Dish soap can be used to clean any removable parts of your microwave, such as the turntable.
With these items on hand, you will be ready to tackle any mess in your microwave oven.
Step 2: Remove Turntable and Accessories
Start by safely disconnecting your microwave oven from the power supply to prevent any accidents.
Next, carefully remove the glass turntable from the microwave by lifting it up and out of the oven. Be cautious as it may be hot or have food remnants on it.
Set the turntable aside and inspect it for any stuck-on food particles or debris. If needed, wash it with warm soapy water and a soft sponge. Rinse it thoroughly and dry it completely before placing it back in the microwave.
After removing the turntable, also take out any other accessories or removable parts such as the microwave rack, rotating ring, or microwave-safe containers. These components can usually be easily lifted out or unscrewed, depending on your microwave model.
Inspect each accessory for any food spills or splatters. You can wash them in the sink with warm soapy water or simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth or sponge. Make sure to dry them completely before reassembling the microwave.
Once you’ve removed the turntable and accessories, you’ll have easier access to the inner walls and ceiling of the microwave, making it simpler to clean the stubborn stains and grime that may have accumulated over time.
Take Out Turntable
To clean the microwave oven thoroughly, start by taking out the turntable. The turntable is the rotating plate at the bottom of the microwave oven that helps distribute heat evenly. Here are the steps to remove it:
- Make sure the microwave oven is turned off and unplugged.
- Open the microwave oven door.
- Gently lift the turntable from the center and pull it towards you.
- If the turntable is not easily removable, check the user manual for instructions specific to your microwave oven model.
Once the turntable is out, wash it with warm soapy water. You can use a sponge or dishcloth to scrub away any stubborn stains or food particles. Rinse it thoroughly and dry it with a clean towel.
Next, wipe the area underneath the turntable with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any food spills or residue. Take care not to get any water or liquid inside the microwave oven’s motor or other internal components. Also, check if the support mechanism for the turntable is dirty or sticky and clean it if necessary.
Once the turntable and its surrounding area are clean and dry, carefully put the turntable back into place. Make sure it is seated properly on the rotating mechanism and spins freely.
Remove Accessories
Before cleaning your microwave oven, make sure to remove all accessories and wash them separately. This includes the turntable, cleaning accessories, and any other removable parts. Refer to the user manual for instructions on how to safely remove these items.
Cleaning the Turntable
The turntable is usually made of glass or plastic and can accumulate food particles and grime over time. To clean it, follow these steps:
- Remove the turntable from the microwave.
- Wash the turntable in warm, soapy water, or place it in the dishwasher if it’s dishwasher-safe.
- Rinse the turntable thoroughly and dry it with a clean cloth.
- Place the clean turntable back into the microwave oven.
Cleaning Other Accessories
Depending on your microwave oven model, there may be additional accessories such as grill racks or crispers. Here’s how to clean them:
| Accessory | Cleaning Method |
|---|---|
| Grill Racks | Wash in warm, soapy water or place in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe. Scrub off any stuck-on food particles with a brush or sponge. |
| Crispers | Remove any food remnants and wash in warm, soapy water. Use a brush or sponge to clean the interior and exterior of the crisper thoroughly. Rinse and dry before placing it back in the microwave oven. |
By removing and cleaning all accessories separately, you ensure that every part of your microwave oven is clean and ready for use.
Step 3: Wipe Interior and Exterior
Once you have removed the rotating plate and washed it, it’s time to wipe down the interior and exterior of your microwave oven. Use a damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent to clean the surfaces.
Start by wiping the interior of the microwave oven. Pay special attention to any areas that may have been splattered with food or liquids. For stubborn stains or dried-on food, you can make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub it off with a sponge or cloth.
Next, move on to the exterior of the microwave. Wipe down the sides, top, and front of the oven, being careful around any buttons or control panels. If there are any greasy or sticky spots, you can use a mild degreaser to remove them.
Wipe the Door and Door Seal
Don’t forget to clean the microwave door and door seal as well. Wipe both the inside and outside of the door with a damp cloth or sponge. Pay attention to the door handle and any grooves or crevices in the seal where dirt or food particles may accumulate.
Dry and Polish
After cleaning the interior and exterior of your microwave oven, use a dry cloth to wipe away any excess moisture. This will help prevent water spots and streaks from forming on the surfaces. Finally, you can use a microfiber cloth to polish the exterior of the oven, leaving it looking shiny and clean.
With these simple steps, you can quickly and effectively clean your microwave oven, ensuring that it stays hygienic and functional for years to come.
Clean Inside the Microwave
Keeping the inside of your microwave clean is essential for maintaining its performance and preventing the buildup of food particles and bacteria. Regular cleaning will also help to eliminate any unpleasant odors.
What you will need:
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Water
- White vinegar
- Lemon juice
- Dish soap
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
Step 1: Remove any loose debris
Start by removing any loose debris or crumbs from the inside of the microwave. Use a dry microfiber cloth or sponge to wipe away any loose food particles.
Step 2: Create a cleaning solution
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine one cup of water, one tablespoon of white vinegar, and one tablespoon of lemon juice. You can also add a few drops of dish soap for added cleaning power.
Step 3: Microwave the cleaning solution
Place the bowl with the cleaning solution in the microwave and heat it on high for three to five minutes, or until it starts to boil. Keep an eye on the microwave to ensure that the solution does not overflow.
Step 4: Let the cleaning solution sit
After heating, let the cleaning solution sit in the microwave for a few minutes to allow the steam to penetrate and loosen any dried-on food or stains.
Step 5: Wipe down the interior
Using a microfiber cloth or sponge, carefully wipe down the interior of the microwave. Pay special attention to any areas with stuck-on food or stains. The steam from the cleaning solution should have loosened these areas, making them easier to remove.
Step 6: Clean the turntable and accessories
Remove the turntable and any other removable accessories and wash them with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry before placing them back in the microwave.
Step 7: Final wipe down
Give the interior of the microwave one final wipe down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining residue from the cleaning solution.
| Tips: |
|---|
| – To prevent future buildup, cover food containers with a microwave-safe lid or plate to contain any splatters. |
| – Clean the inside of your microwave regularly, ideally after each use, to prevent the buildup of stubborn stains and odors. |
| – Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers, as they may damage the interior of the microwave. |
Clean Outside the Microwave
When cleaning your microwave, it’s important not to forget the outside surfaces. Over time, these surfaces can get dirty and greasy, so giving them a good wipe down will help keep your microwave looking clean and fresh.
To clean the outside of your microwave, you’ll need:
- Microfiber cloth
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
Start by mixing a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water in a bowl. Dip the microfiber cloth into the soapy mixture and wring out any excess liquid. The cloth should be damp, not soaking wet.
Next, use the damp cloth to gently wipe down the exterior surfaces of the microwave. Pay attention to areas that tend to accumulate grease or fingerprints, such as the control panel and the handle.
If there are any stubborn stains or grime, you can use a bit more pressure and scrub gently in a circular motion. However, be careful not to use too much force or abrasive materials, as this could damage the surface of your microwave.
Once you have cleaned all the visible exterior surfaces, take a dry microfiber cloth and wipe away any remaining moisture. This will help prevent streaks or water spots from forming.
Remember to clean the power cord and the back of the microwave as well, as these areas can also accumulate dust and dirt. Use the same gentle cleaning technique with the damp cloth, avoiding any electrical components.
Cleaning the outside of your microwave regularly will not only help keep it looking clean and shiny, but it will also remove any potential dirt or bacteria that may have built up. A few minutes of cleaning can go a long way in maintaining the overall cleanliness and hygiene of your kitchen appliances.
Disclaimer: Before cleaning the outside surfaces of your microwave, make sure it is unplugged and completely cooled down to avoid any risk of electrical shock.
Step 4: Clean Turntable and Accessories
After cleaning the interior and exterior surfaces of your microwave oven, it’s time to focus on the turntable and other accessories. These parts can accumulate food particles and stains over time, which can affect the overall performance of your microwave. Here’s how you can clean them effectively:
1. Remove the Turntable
Start by removing the turntable from the microwave oven. Most turntables can be easily lifted off the base or can be unscrewed, depending on the model. Check the user manual if you’re not sure how to remove it.
2. Wash the Turntable
Wash the turntable with warm, soapy water. You can use dish detergent or a mild kitchen cleaner to ensure thorough cleaning. Use a sponge or a soft cloth to scrub away any food residue or stains. Pay special attention to the edges and corners of the turntable.
Note: If the turntable has stubborn stains or if the dishwasher-safe, you can also place it in the dishwasher. Just make sure to check the user manual to confirm if it’s dishwasher-safe.
3. Clean the Turntable Support and Roller Ring
While the turntable is being cleaned, don’t forget about the turntable support and roller ring. These accessories help the turntable rotate smoothly. Remove them carefully and wash them in warm, soapy water. Use a sponge or a soft brush to remove any food particles or stains. Rinse them thoroughly and dry them with a clean cloth before placing them back in your microwave oven.
4. Wipe the Inside of the Microwave
While waiting for the turntable and accessories to dry, take this opportunity to wipe the inside of your microwave oven one more time. Use a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining cleaning solution or residue. Pay attention to any stubborn stains or grease spots.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean the turntable and other accessories of your microwave oven. This will not only keep your microwave clean and hygienic but also ensure optimal performance and longevity.
FAQ
What is the best way to clean a microwave oven?
One of the best ways to clean a microwave oven is to mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the mixture in the microwave for about five minutes until it starts to steam. Then, let it sit for a few minutes to allow the steam to loosen any grease or grime. Finally, wipe down the interior surfaces with a sponge or cloth.
Can I use lemon instead of vinegar to clean my microwave?
Yes, you can use lemon instead of vinegar to clean your microwave. Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a microwave-safe bowl. Add some water to the bowl and place it in the microwave. Heat the mixture for a few minutes until it starts to steam. Then, let it sit for a few more minutes before wiping down the interior surfaces.
Is it safe to use bleach to clean a microwave oven?
No, it is not safe to use bleach to clean a microwave oven. Bleach is a strong chemical that can be toxic if ingested or inhaled. It can also damage the interior surfaces of the microwave. It is best to use natural cleaning agents such as vinegar or lemon juice, which are safe and effective for cleaning microwaves.
How often should I clean my microwave oven?
It is recommended to clean your microwave oven at least once a week, especially if you use it frequently. Regular cleaning helps to prevent the buildup of food splatters and odours. If there are any stubborn stains or spills, you may need to clean it more often or as necessary.
Can I clean the exterior of my microwave oven with a regular household cleaner?
Yes, you can clean the exterior of your microwave oven with a regular household cleaner. However, it is important to read the instructions on the cleaner to ensure that it is safe to use on the specific materials of your microwave. Some cleaners may be abrasive or contain chemicals that can damage the surface, so it is best to use a cleaner that is safe for use on appliances.
