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It's a convenient tool for heating up leftovers or popping popcorn, but let's be real, it can get pretty gross pretty quickly. Don't worry, though, because I've got you covered with some playful yet informative ways to get that microwave sparkling clean.
Keeping your microwave clean isn't just about maintaining its appearance, it's also important for your health and safety. The accumulation of food debris and stains can create a breeding ground for bacteria, which can then contaminate your food and lead to illness.
Additionally, food residue can become caked onto the interior of the microwave and create a fire hazard. Regularly cleaning your microwave not only ensures that it remains in good working order but also helps to protect you and your family from potential health and safety risks. So, don't let the mess build up – your tools and get to cleaning.
Here are three simple ways to clean your microwave with household ingredients:
Method 1: The Vinegar and Water Trick
This is an oldie but a goodie. It's simple, effective, and doesn't require any harsh chemicals.
What you'll need:
- A microwave-safe bowl
- White vinegar
- Water
- A sponge or cloth
How to do it:
- Mix equal parts vinegar and water in the bowl.
- Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high for 5 minutes. Make sure the bowl is microwave-safe and that the mixture doesn't boil over.
- Let the bowl sit in the microwave for a few minutes to allow the steam to loosen any food or stains.
- Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it will be hot!) and use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the interior of the microwave. The steam should have loosened any dirt or stains, making it easy to wipe away.
- If there are any stubborn stains, dip your sponge or cloth in the vinegar and water mixture and scrub until they disappear.
Method 2: The Lemon and Water Method
If you prefer a more natural cleaning method, this one is for you.
What you’ll need:
- A lemon
- Water
- A sponge
How to do it:
- Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into the bowl. Add enough water to cover the bottom of the bowl.
- Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high for 3 minutes.
- Let the bowl sit in the microwave for a few minutes to allow the steam to do its work.
- Remove the bowl and use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the interior of the microwave. The acidity in the lemon juice will help break down any food or stains, making it easy to wipe away.
- If there are any stubborn stains, dip your sponge or cloth in the lemon and water mixture and scrub until they disappear.
Method 3: The Baking Soda Method
If you're dealing with some seriously stubborn stains or smells, baking soda is your new best friend.
What you'll need:
- Baking soda
- Water
- A microwave-safe bowl
- A sponge or cloth
How to do it:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to make a paste.
- Apply the paste to the interior of the microwave, focusing on any particularly dirty or stained areas.
- Heat a cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, or until the water boils.
- Remove the bowl of water from the microwave and use a sponge or cloth to wipe away the baking soda paste. The steam from the boiling water will have loosened any dirt or stains, making it easy to wipe away.
- If there are any stubborn stains, dip your sponge or cloth in the baking soda and water mixture and scrub until they disappear.
