In today‘s busy world, it’s all too easy to forget meal prep and cleanup. Over time, splatters and spills can result in a dirty microwave.
The problem is exacerbated by high-fat foods that harden over time into crusted-on messes. Worse, many cleaning products aren’t safe to use in the microwave.
There is a need to know how to clean microwave stains.
So, what do you do? Toss out your appliance and buy a new one?
Luckily, there are ways to keep your microwave clean and fresh without resorting to drastic measures. Here’s how to Clean Microwave Stains
Make a mixture of 1 cup of water and a few tablespoons of lemon juice, baking soda, or vinegar. Put it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it high for 5 minutes. Let it cool off for 4-6 minutes before you wipe it down with a damp cloth and dry it.
In today’s post, we’ll show you how to clean your microwave stains quickly and easily and share a few tips. We’ll also address some common questions about cleaning microwaves.
Let’s get started.
Can You Clean Microwave Stains
Yes, cleaning your microwave is a reasonably simple process. The key is to avoid using abrasive or harsh chemicals that can scratch or damage your appliance. Instead, use safe cleaning products and simple techniques.
There is nothing more irritating than having a dirty microwave. It’s not only repulsive, but it can be downright dangerous. Food splatters and leftovers can harbor bacteria that may lead to food poisoning or other illnesses. As a result, you’ll want to clean your microwave regularly to avoid these health risks.
So, how do you go about it?
The first step in cleaning your microwave is determining the mess you have on your hands.
For example, if it’s a simple splatter, all you need to do is wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge and some mild soap and water. If you want to get fancy, you can use vinegar and baking soda for a deep clean that will leave your microwave smelling fresh.
However, if there are more heavy stains or buildup on your appliance, you may need to take more drastic measures. In these cases, consult a professional or your owner’s manual for additional instructions. If the problem is substantial, you may need to replace specific parts of your microwave or purchase a new one entirely.
Tips for Cleaning Microwave Stains
We’ve all experienced the agony of microwave stains. Fortunately, there are a few simple tips to get rid of those unsightly splotches in your microwave.
- First, you’ll need to figure out what type of stain you’re dealing with: water-based, oil-based, or other hard-to-remove food stains. This will make it easier for you to select the ideal cleaning solution.
- Remove any excess spillage from the inside of the microwave before cleaning. This will prevent stains from setting in and make it more difficult for you to remove them later on.
- Use a damp paper towel or cloth to wipe away any stains from your microwave’s interior walls. Avoid using sponges, as they can leave behind lint and debris making it harder for you to remove future stains.
- Never use harsh abrasives or chemicals, as they can damage your microwave’s finish and cause permanent stains that are difficult to remove.
- Use only warm water when cleaning your microwave, as hot water can damage its interior walls and cause permanent stains. Make sure not to leave any standing water in your microwave, as moisture can cause rust and other damage over time.
- Never put non-microwave safe items into your microwave, as they can warp or melt and cause permanent damage to its interior walls. Avoid metal containers, plastic wrap, and other materials that aren’t designed for use in microwaves.
How to Clean Microwave Stains
There are a few cleaning agents that you can use to remove microwave stains. The most common are lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda. All of these products have been tested and approved for use in microwaves.
So, without further ado, here’s how to clean your microwave with these products.
- Before you start cleaning, unplug your microwave and let it cool. This will help prevent any potential injuries while you’re cleaning.
- Create a solution of lemon juice, baking soda, or vinegar, depending on your preference. Mix one part lemon juice/baking soda/vinegar with three parts water in a bowl.
- Dip a clean towel into your solution and use it to scrub away any stains or debris on your microwave’s interior walls. Don’t forget to clean around buttons, dials, vents, and hinges as well. You can also use a toothbrush brush for far-reaching places.
- Wipe down your microwave with a damp cloth and allow it to dry before using it again.
If your microwave is still not clean, try steaming the solution.
- Transfer your solution into a microwave-safe bowl, place it in your microwave and nuke it for about 5 minutes.
- Let your bowl sit for ten minutes before removing it from your microwave while at the same time allowing it to cool down.
- Use a towel dipped in your solution and wipe down any remaining stains on your microwave’s interior walls. Allow it to dry before using it again.
How to Get Yellow Stains Out Of Microwave
Yellow stains in your microwave are caused mainly by bags of popcorn that have been left to sit for an extended period.
Other causes, such as mustard and ketchup, can also leave a yellowish residue when cooked at high temperatures or allowed to boil over.
Below is a step-by-step guide on cleaning yellow stains out of your microwave.
- Unplug your microwave and remove any food from inside of it.
- Make a mixture of one part lemon juice and two parts water in a microwave-safe bowl or cup. You can also add 1⁄2 teaspoon of baking soda for every cup of water used.
- Place your mixture in your microwave and heat it high for five minutes.
- Let it in for a few minutes, then wipe your microwave with a damp cloth or towel. Repeat if necessary until all of your stains are gone.
How to Clean a Scorched Microwave
Occasionally, burnt marks will appear on your microwave’s interior. They are typically dark splotches or streaks but can also take on other shapes. Fortunately, it is possible to clean these stains without resorting to harsh chemicals or scrubbing for hours at a time. Here’s how.
- Make a paste with water and baking soda/white vinegar.
- Use a toothbrush to scrub away the grime and stains. Make sure to get into all of the snug crevices and corners and work in small sections at a time.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth, and then dry thoroughly with another cloth.
- Repeat as needed until all of the stains are removed, and your microwave looks new.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you get hard stains out of a microwave?
Tough stains require a strong solvent with acidic properties. Vinegar is just such a substance, and it’s available in your kitchen cupboard.
Combine 1 /2 cup of vinegar with 2 cups of water in a microwavable bowl, then microwave on high for 2 minutes.cLearn here on how you can clean the microwave with vinegar.
The steam will loosen any food particles stuck to your microwave walls, making them easier to remove with a sponge or cloth.
2. How do I get my microwave white again?
Baking soda or lemon juice and water is your best pick to get your microwave white again.
Simply mix one part of baking soda or lemon juice with two parts of water in a microwaveable dish and nuke for 5 minutes.
This will loosen any gunk stuck on your microwave, making it easier to wipe away.
3. What is the best way to clean the inside of a microwave?
You can use a combination of lemon/lime/ orange juice and water or vinegar with water.
These are all-natural disinfectants that are safe to use and have antibacterial properties to remove stains from your microwave.
4. Can you put bleach in a microwave?
Avoid using bleach in your microwave because it may cause a chemical reaction that will damage the plastic parts of your appliance.
Bleach also leaves lingering stains and odors that are difficult to remove. Instead, use baking soda, vinegar, or lemon juice with water to clean your microwave.
5. Why does vinegar explode in the microwave?
Vinegar’s chemical structure is similar to that of water, and when microwaved, it becomes superheated. Instead of bubbles forming, as they do in boiling water, a superheated liquid creates tiny gas pockets.
When these pockets reach a specific size, they burst, resulting in an explosion.
6. What causes burn marks in a microwave?
The common causes of burn marks in a microwave includes spilled liquids, food particles, and non -microwaveable items.
Other reasons are overheating or improper use of your microwave. Signs of burn marks include discoloration on walls, unpleasant odor from inside, and even smoke coming from vents.
Conclusion
There are many ways to clean microwave stains safely. Each of these methods is pretty simple, and you can complete them in minutes. Plus, they are all safe for your health and will not damage your microwave.
The only mistake you could make is to use harsh chemicals that could harm both you and your kitchen appliances. When it comes to cleaning microwave stains, go as natural as possible.
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