A microwave is a very convenient appliance for any kitchen, especially in these, where time is scarce for family members. This is why it is important to maintain a clean microwave.
Tools needed to clean with ease
Your arsenal might vary, but all you really need to keep your microwave shiny can include some or all of:
- Microfiber cloth or cleaning paper
- Lemon juice, dish soap, vinegar or baking soda
- Soft-bristle brushes
- Eco-friendly cleaners
- Grease remover
Quick clean after use
Using a damp cloth to sweep any spills and food debris, after you have used your microwave, will allow you to keep it relatively clean. Using microfiber cloth is a good idea for better results. Make sure you let the microwave cool off a bit after use. Dish soap can be a good option for this purpose since it is mild and safer to avoid harming the microwave. Cleaning after each use will make deep cleaning easier!
Deep clean once a week
Some grime will not come off as easily as the others. Build-ups are absolutely possible and can be tough to remove. Pick your cleaner, which is safe for your microwave and take care of any spills and grime that have been left over.
Cleaning your microwave properly once a week to disinfect as well, is very important. Doing so will ensure any food and drinks you heat up, will not end up being contaminated or ruined. Bleach is way too intense, so you should avoid using it for that purpose, but you could go for home remedies, like mixing vinegar and dish soap.
A soft-bristle brush can help a lot here, especially with the more persistent build-ups. Spraying with a great remover in advance could make the process far easier.
Avoid using traditional cleaners
Since you will be going to clean your oven, either use mild cleaning products or choose eco-friendly cleaners. This will benefit both your health, the quality of your meals and the longevity of your microwave. Traditional cleaners can leave odours behind and depending on the chemicals they could be a danger for the microwave.
Get removable parts out of the way
The turntable and filters, if you have any, should be removed from the microwave. This will allow you to get into hard-to-reach places, where build-ups can occur. Removing the removable parts will allow you to clean them properly as well as anything surrounding them in the microwave. Cleaner parts make for a more efficient microwave. Make sure to soak them and scrub them thoroughly before placing them back into the microwave.
Don’t leave out the exterior
Grease, grime and dust can all get onto the exterior of your microwave. The keypad can be especially vulnerable, as any spills that remain can damage its functionality, possibly permanently too. A dirty keypad could also be a breeding ground for bacteria and a health risk. Lemon juice or vinegar mixture can take care of any grime problems and kill bacteria that are latching onto the surface of your microwave.