How to Clean a Microwave Effectively
Microwaves are absolute lifesavers when you need a quick meal. But they can quickly turn into a messy nightmare if you ignore the splatters. Exploded baked beans and mystery food stains are all too common in busy kitchens.
Cleaning the inside of a microwave often feels like a tedious chore. Dried-on food can cling to the walls like superglue. Thankfully, getting your appliance sparkling clean is actually incredibly easy.
You do not need to rely on harsh chemical cleaners. The most effective solutions are probably already sitting in your kitchen cupboards. Let us walk you through the simplest ways to banish grease and grime for good.
Why You Must Clean Your Microwave Regularly
Ignoring a dirty microwave is a recipe for disaster. Leftover food splatters will continue to cook every time you turn the appliance on. This can eventually lead to unpleasant burning smells filling your kitchen.
Old food residue can also become a breeding ground for bacteria. Nobody wants their fresh dinner sitting next to last month’s soup explosion. Keeping the interior spotless is essential for good food hygiene.
Regular cleaning also helps to extend the lifespan of your appliance. Built-up grease can sometimes interfere with how effectively the microwave heats your food. A little bit of maintenance goes a long way in preventing unnecessary breakdowns.
The Best Ways to Clean the Inside of a Microwave
You can easily loosen stubborn grime using the power of steam. This method requires zero scrubbing and saves you a lot of time. Here are our favourite natural cleaning hacks for a sparkling interior.
The Magic Lemon Method
Lemons are fantastic for cutting through grease and leaving a fresh scent. Simply slice a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a microwave-safe bowl. Drop the squeezed halves into the bowl and add half a cup of water.
Place the bowl inside and run the microwave on high for three minutes. The water should come to a rolling boil and fill the interior with steam. Once the timer finishes, do not open the door straight away.
Leave the door closed for another five minutes to let the steam work its magic. The steam will soften all the hardened food splatters on the walls and ceiling. Carefully remove the hot bowl and simply wipe the inside clean with a damp cloth.
The White Vinegar Hack
White vinegar is another brilliant natural cleaner that works wonders on grease. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a microwave-safe jug. Pop it into the microwave and heat it on high for about three to five minutes.
Just like the lemon trick, let it sit with the door closed for a few minutes afterwards. The acidic steam will break down any stubborn grease and neutralise lingering food odours. Carefully take the jug out and wipe down the interior walls with a sponge.
Bicarbonate of Soda for Stubborn Stains
Sometimes you might encounter a burnt-on stain that refuses to budge. Bicarbonate of soda is the perfect mildly abrasive solution for these tough spots. Mix two tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda with a little water to form a thick paste.
Apply this paste directly onto the stubborn stains and leave it for five minutes. Take a damp cloth or a non-scratch sponge and gently rub the area. The stain should lift away easily without damaging the interior surface.
How to Clean the Microwave Turntable
The glass turntable often takes the brunt of any food spills. You should always remove this part before you start cleaning the main interior. Most turntables can be easily lifted off their central rotating ring.
Wash the glass plate in your sink using warm water and standard washing-up liquid. If the grease is particularly thick, leave it to soak for ten minutes first. You can also pop most glass turntables straight into the dishwasher if you prefer.
Do not forget to wipe down the plastic roller ring that sits underneath. This part can easily get clogged with crumbs and stop the plate from turning smoothly. Dry both parts thoroughly before placing them back inside the appliance.
Do Not Forget the Outside
A clean interior is great, but the outside of your microwave needs love too. The handle and control panel are high-touch areas that gather greasy fingerprints daily. You want the whole appliance looking fresh on your kitchen counter.
Spray a small amount of all-purpose antibacterial cleaner onto a microfibre cloth. Never spray cleaning products directly onto the control panel to avoid damaging the electronics. Gently wipe down the door, the buttons, and the top of the microwave.
If you have a stainless steel microwave, you might notice watermarks or streaks. You can buff these away using a dry polishing cloth for a streak-free finish. Your microwave will look as good as the day you bought it.
When to Call in the Appliance Repair Experts
Sometimes a microwave stops working properly no matter how clean it is. If your appliance is making strange noises or failing to heat food, it might be time for a replacement or a professional look. While microwaves are often cheaper to replace than repair, other kitchen appliances are definitely worth fixing.
If your oven, washing machine, or dishwasher is playing up, Anderson James is here to help. We are your local Wiltshire-based domestic appliance repair and plumbing experts. Our friendly team can get your household running smoothly again in no time.
Please note that we do not offer boiler services or repair refrigeration appliances. However, for almost everything else, we are just a phone call away. Get in touch with us today to book a fast and reliable repair.