Microwaves are handy appliances present in almost every home. They are convenient; just put the food in, and you are free to do other activities while it heats whatever you place inside.
However, microwaves need frequent cleaning because of the food spills and smell. Besides, the heat might dry food residue and get it stuck on the interior. Nobody wants a dirty appliance in their kitchens!
Here’s a quick method to deep clean your microwave.
Why is cleaning your microwave important?
Cleaning your microwave oven goes further than wiping the exterior to give it a tidy look. Grease stains and residue can also affect the way it works.
These are the main consequences of not cleaning a microwave:
- Less efficiency: Spilled food is heated every time you use the microwave, absorbing the energy destined for whatever food is inside at the moment.
- It can get damaged: As time passes, heated food stains can damage your appliance’s surface. Besides, the burnt-on residue is a fire hazard.
- Food changes taste and smell: If your microwave smells bad, the odor will permeate the food you heat, even changing your meal’s taste.
How to deep clean your microwave
To take care of your microwave, the best you can do is deep clean it. Maybe it sounds like a big task, but you’ll finish in no time following these steps!
1. Identify the dirty spots
Take a look at the inside of your microwave. Are there hard, dry spots? Or maybe the spills are fresher. The better you know what you are dealing with, the better you’ll be at making a plan to clean your appliance.
2. Choose your tools
After examining the area, it’ll be easier to select which instruments to use. Regardless of that, you’ll need kitchen gloves and a few microfiber cloths—the number will depend on the level of filth.
White vinegar and baking soda are the go-to cleaners for the kitchen. Also, you’ll need a small brush or a toothbrush to scrub that hard gunk off.
3. Vinegar or baking soda?
Baking soda and vinegar are both great for dealing with dirty surfaces, but you can benefit more from their properties according to the situation.
- When to use baking soda? Maybe the stains in your microwave got stuck recently and haven’t dried too much. In this case, mix in a microwave-safe bowl 1½ tablespoons of baking soda with 1 cup of water and let the microwave run on high for 5 minutes.
- When to use vinegar? If you saw hard, dry spots inside your microwave, the acidic properties of vinegar will suit this mess. Mix a cup of water, two tablespoons of vinegar, and the juice from a lemon in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the container in the microwave for two minutes and let the steam sit for another 10.
4. Cleaning away the grime
Once the time is up, open your microwave and start scrubbing. If the spots are soft, use the toothbrush to get rid of them. However, if you deal with hard gunk instead, use a brush with stiff bristles.
As for the turntable, take it and wash it outside with warm water and dish soap. Remove all the stains with the scrub brush. Then, wipe the residue with a damp microfiber cloth and let the turntable air dry.
Do you need help with the cleaning chores?
If deep cleaning your microwave is just one of your pending housework tasks, Think Maids can help you out! Our well-trained and thoroughly vetted professionals can take over your cleaning chores. Ask for a quote today!