HOW TO CLEAN A MICROWAVE IN 3 STEPS

WHAT TO USE TO CLEAN A MICROWAVE

When it comes to cleaning a microwave, there are several common household supplies that you can use to keep your appliance smelling and looking fresh. These include liquid dish soap, a soft cloth, a bit of water and a microwave-safe container.

When cleaning a microwave, it is crucial to use products that won't damage the surface, while still successfully eliminating any built-up residue or odor.

STEP 1: CLEAN THE INSIDE OF YOUR MICROWAVE

• Loosen hard to remove spills and splatters: Fill a lidless microwave-safe container with 1 cup of water and set the microwave for 3 to 5 minutes to help steam and loosen the stuck-on gunk. Allow to cool, then remove the container and wipe down surfaces with a damp soft cloth or sponge. Once done cleaning, you can sanitize the sponge in the microwave.

• Wipe down the microwave cavity: Clean the interior walls with a dilution of mild dish soap and water on a soft cloth or sponge. If you have a model with a stainless steel cavity wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid damage.

• Remove soap residue and dry: Wipe down the interior using a damp cloth to rinse surfaces, and dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.

STEP 2: CLEAN THE MICROWAVE TURNTABLE

• If recently used, allow the turntable to cool: Always start with a cool turntable before removing and submerging in water, as a heated one may break from the sudden change in temperature.
• Remove turntable and wash: If coated heavily in grime, soak the turntable in mild dish soap and warm water, then use a non-abrasive sponge or dishcloth to hand wash. Some turntables can be cleaned in the dishwasher, but always check your microwave manual before doing so.
• Thoroughly dry and put back in place: Once air-dried or wiped with a microfiber cloth, replace the turntable inside the microwave before its next use.

STEP 3: CLEAN THE MICROWAVE EXTERIOR

• Clean exterior surfaces with mild dish soap and water: Wipe down the handle, control panel and exterior with a dilution of water and mild dish soap. Rinse surfaces with clean water and dry with a microfiber cloth. If you have a stainless steel microwave, use the above method or clean with a stainless steel appliance cleaner, like affresh^®1 cleaners. Learn more about how to clean your stainless steel appliances.
• Use glass cleaner for window smudges and fingerprints: Spray glass cleaner directly onto a paper towel, then wipe the glass window and glass control panel if you have one, until dry.

HOW TO PREVENT MICROWAVE SPLATTER

Microwaves are a convenient way to quickly heat up your favorite foods; however, the splatter of sauces and other liquids can add time to the clean up process after your meal. To prevent microwave splatter, consider using a microwave splatter screen or cover to prevent food from covering the walls of your appliance.

Microwave splatter screens and covers are tools that you can use to help keep your microwave clean and make clean up time easier. Simply place the cover over your dish before microwaving and enjoy your meal.

HOW TO GET BURNT SMELL OUT OF MICROWAVE

If you’re experiencing the unpleasant, smoky odor that can happen when food gets burnt in a microwave, there are several simple methods you can try to banish the burnt smell and leave your microwave smelling refreshed.

• Create a mixture of water and lemon juice or vinegar: Heat 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of either lemon juice or vinegar in a lidless microwave-safe container for 2 to 5 minutes in the microwave oven.

• Dry with a microfiber cloth: Once cooled, remove the container and wipe down the interior.