We all want to keep that showroom new look of our microwave both inside and out but sometimes, that’s impossible. Or maybe not? If you’re worried that your microwave won’t maintain its shiny look for long, it’s probably your cleaning style.
Many people don’t know how to clean a microwave properly, which, when done regularly, extends the life of your oven. Most are designed to last about 10 years before it goes out completely. However, cleaning expert Neel Parekh has discovered many of his clients do two of the top things that damage a microwave.
These are:
- Not covering food while in use
- Waiting too long to clean up spills and splatter
How to clean the inside of a microwave properly is mostly cleaning spills immediately to avoid food stains. Also, you may clean your oven regularly but use the wrong cleaning materials. Most scouring pads, toothbrushes, or dry baking soda are too harsh for most surfaces or to clean oven components.
The Easy Way to Clean Microwave Oven Parts
Other components, like the turntable, get food spills and scratches over time but these tips will extend the life tremendously. This also eliminates the need to look for replacement parts only after the oven model is retired by the maker.
- Glass turntable – Let cool. Wash by hand or in the dishwasher. Check oven manufacturer recommendations for dishwashing the turntable
- Clean the rubber door seal with baking soda and a damp cloth or sponge. Wipe away any residue and let dry before using.
- For ovens with an acrylic or painted interior, only use a warm, wet cloth containing a small amount of dishwashing liquid.
- Never use chemical abrasives or harsh detergents when cleaning the inside or outside of the microwave.
You Can Also Try These Oven Maintenance Tips
Just like your car needs clean air and oil filters to run properly, having dirty filters serves a similar purpose. Although it may not affect functionality with each use, these filters hold onto food particles, which can smell after a while. These aromas can often cause a natural stench that affects future meals cooked.
Standalone microwave ovens have a charcoal filter, which helps eliminate odors. Over-the-range microwaves are part of an electric or gas oven duo and have two filters. In addition to a charcoal filter, these also have a grease filter. The grease filter should be cleaned at least once a month if you use your oven or stove regularly.
The charcoal filter should be changed every six months if you use your microwave more than a few times a week. Here are some easy steps to fast cleaning –
- Turn off power
- Remove vent panel underneath using a Phillips screwdriver
- Remove old charcoal filter and discard
- Place new filter
- Secure and screw in vent panel
In over-the-counter microwave ovens, the grease filter has similar steps for fast cleaning –
- Turn off power
- Remove the filer underneath using a screwdriver
- Soak in hot, soapy water for about 10 minutes. If there’s stuck on food, add a quarter cup of baking soda to the water
- Use a dish brush or scouring pad to remove excess grease
- Rinse in hot water and let air dry or wipe with a soft cloth
- Place filter back in position and secure with screwdriver
How Do You Clean a Really Dirty Microwave Without Causing Damage?
If we’re talking about burnt food stains or strong aromas that come from popcorn or garlic, it’s fairly simple. All you need are a few drops of white or apple cider vinegar or lemon juice and a medium microwave-safe bowl. Place ingredients and fill them with two cups of water before placing them inside the microwave.
Cook the mixture to a boil and let it remain inside the microwave for about 15 minutes. This loosens the burned-on food and grease so you can wipe it easily with a damp cloth or sponge.
Getting Rid of Burned Food Smell
If the smell of burned popcorn or other food is too overpowering, place a box of baking soda inside the oven. Let it sit for at least four hours or overnight before using it again. Although the same baking soda can be used for future cleaning jobs, it’s best to not take it internally.
Curbing Common Microwave Cooking Habits
While you may know how to clean a microwave oven with little problem, there are ways to do it less often. You can save your cooking surfaces by covering dishes with a plate cover or splatter guard. Splatter guards are ideal for cooking oily foods like bacon or cheese. Plate covers are great for warming up already-cooked dishes.
Let MaidThis Durham Give You a Sparkling Clean Kitchen
If you’re tired of spending your free time cleaning, we can help. Click below for a free estimate for your home or vacation rental cleaning. Our convenient scheduling system lets you choose the date, time, and services needed without hidden fees. We work with you to ensure your satisfaction with every job.
