Microwaves are a modern-day kitchen miracle, zapping cold coffee to steaming hot or turning a frozen meal into a feast in minutes. Yet, this everyday convenience can lead to messy splatters and build-up inside. Over time, without proper cleaning, the microwave can harbor food stains, unpleasant odors, and sticky residues that make it look unappealing and can even affect the taste and hygiene of your food.
But fear not – with the right approach, you can restore your microwave’s interior to sparkling clean condition with minimal effort. This detailed guide will walk you through a series of simple yet effective steps to get your microwave looking and smelling as good as new.
1. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Start by assembling everything you’ll need to clean your microwave. This will make the process smoother and faster. You will need:
1. A microwave-safe bowl
2. Water
3. A lemon, lime, or a couple of tablespoons of vinegar
4. A sponge or microfiber cloth
5. A non-abrasive scrub brush or toothbrush (optional for tough spots)
6. Disinfectant (to wipe the exterior)
2. Steam to Loosen Grime
The secret weapon in your cleaning arsenal is steam. Fill the microwave-safe bowl with about one cup of water and add either a sliced lemon or two tablespoons of vinegar. If using lemon, you can also squeeze the juice into the water for extra cleaning power. Place the bowl in the microwave and set it to high for several minutes until the water boils and the window steams up. This helps to loosen the hardened food particles and greases inside.
continued on next page
