Neglecting to clean your microwave is a serious and potentially costly mistake. It could result in tough stains, persistent odours, or, in worst-case scenarios, a completely damaged appliance.
Most of us know at least one person who thinks they are playing it smart by using microwave-safe dishes to avoid cleaning it. If that person is you, we are here to show you a better way of handling things.
This article will highlight simple yet efficient methods to clean your microwave and extend its life.
Table of Contents
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
Microwaves are a mainstay in pretty much every home kitchen and staff lounge. From preparing a quick dish to heating up leftover dinner, these compact devices are unsung heroes for anyone in a hurry.
While everyone uses them, most would not think to clean them. Over time, food splatter and spills will accumulate and harden, wreaking all sorts of havoc on your appliance.
First of all, removing food residue becomes considerably more difficult the longer you let it sit.
That crusty cheese and burnt tomato sauce are not just ugly. They could cause foul smells, and even provide a haven for germs to congregate inside the microwave.
Cleaning it after every use does not just increase its life expectancy. It also protects your food and, by extension, your health from invisible bacteria.
Besides, a spotless microwave runs better. You see, food particles absorb microwave radiation, which consequently impairs its heating power and efficacy. As a result, it will take more time to heat up your food, and in the end, it will not even be warmed up evenly.
This inefficient energy expenditure could also result in added expenses in the form of repairs, replacements, and increased utility bills.
The Gentle Power of Steam
Steam cleaning is one of the simplest and most successful methods to safely clean a microwave, with no hard scrubbing or abrasive cleaners required.
It breaks down stubborn food spills and dissolves hardened filth, making wiping up afterwards rather simple.
Fill a microwave-safe bowl with about half a cup of water. Then, add a few lemon slices or a spoonful of vinegar to neutralise unsavoury smells and help the steam cut through the grease more easily.
Place this homemade concoction inside the appliance on high heat for three to five minutes. Let the bowl sit for one or two minutes after the timer beeps so the steam can work its magic on the solidified stains.
Remove the bowl carefully, as it will be hot to the touch once the filth and grime have melted. Then, use a soft cloth or sponge to clean the inside walls and base.
The Forgotten Turntable
Drips and splatter are bound to happen, often landing on the microwave’s turntable.
You can treat it like any other dish since it is typically made of glass or plastic. A quick wash with warm, soapy water should do the trick. If there are any bits of food still stuck to it, soak it in the sink for a few minutes to loosen them up before wiping.
While you are at it, remove any crumbs or spills off the floor of the device. Before placing the turntable back inside, make sure it has dried completely to avoid any electrical accidents.
Maintaining the Control Panel
Let us be honest. You probably adjust the settings on your appliance right after handling food, leaving sticky marks all over the control panel. Over time, this viscous residue can make the buttons more difficult to press or possibly malfunction.
Resist the urge to immediately spray any cleaning solution onto the control panel. The liquid can seep into the electrical components and damage them.
Instead, pour a gentle cleaning solution or just plain water on a cloth, and gingerly wipe the buttons and surrounding area. If there is filth glued to the surface, scrape it off with a cotton swab, moistened with a little rubbing alcohol.
Keeping the Exterior Sparkling
The outside of the device also needs some attention. Finger smudges, spills, and dust often gather on the handle and exterior vents.
Polish the exterior with a soft cloth and a light cleaning solution to keep things hygienic. If it has a stainless-steel finish, use a cleaner that is meant especially for that material to avoid damaging it.
Stainless steel is easily scratched. To prevent scrapes, wipe it in the direction of the grain.
Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Microwave
Though seemingly harmless, certain behaviours could lead to serious problems down the road.
For instance, abrasive scrubbers, steel wool, or other tools with similarly rough surfaces should never be used on your microwave.
They can scratch the insides of the device, consequently compromising its structural integrity. A soft cloth or sponge is a gentler yet equally effective option.
Harsh chemical cleaners, such as ammonia or bleach, are also not recommended. These products can corrode the metal parts, leave harmful residue, and even destroy the plastic components. Light dish soap, vinegar, or lemon juice are all better substitutes.
Lastly, do not overlook the rubber seals around the edge of the door. These greatly affect the efficiency of the device. They ensure that no microwave radiation leaks through while the appliance is running.
To keep them in good condition, gently clean them with a moist towel, and refrain from using any cleaning products that could cause the rubber to erode over time.
Final Tips for Easy Maintenance
Some simple habits will make your regular property maintenance routine much easier.
For example, covering the food with a microwave-safe lid or plate can prevent most splatters from happening in the first place.
Wiping down the insides after every use while the spills and crumbs are still soft and easy to clean is another smart move. It prevents stubborn filth from accumulating.
Conclusion
So long as you stay on top of random splashes and splatter, microwave maintenance is not going to be a tedious chore. It does not even require any special tools, so you really have no excuse not to clean yours regularly.
Incorporating our tips and tricks into your property maintenance routine will keep your trusty appliance in perfect working condition for years to come.
If you suspect your device needs a deep clean, have a property maintenance expert handle it, so you would have a clean slate to start with.