Why Deep-Clean Your Microwave?
A microwave can get very dirty over time. Food splatters and spills build up on the walls and turn into hardened, stuck-on messes. This not only looks unappealing but can also negatively impact the performance of your microwave.
Here are some key reasons why deep-cleaning your microwave is important:
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Removes dried-on food residue: Over time, food splatters dry and harden, sticking to the microwave walls. A deep clean helps scrub away these messes.
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Eliminates odors: Old food splatters can make your microwave smelly. A thorough cleaning removes odors.
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Improves efficiency: Dirt, grease, and food splatters prevent microwave waves from circulating properly, reducing heating efficiency. Cleaning improves performance.
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Prevents bugs/pests: Crumbs and spills attract ants, roaches and other unwelcome visitors. Deep-cleaning deters pests.
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Makes microwave look new: A good clean restores your microwave’s shine and makes it look new again.
How Often Should You Deep-Clean The Microwave?
- Weekly quick cleans
- Monthly deep cleaning
For most people, a quick wipe-down weekly and a deep clean monthly is ideal. If you use the microwave heavily, increase frequency.
Supplies Needed
Gather these items to deep-clean without scrubbing:
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Dish soap: Degreases and cuts through splatters. Use 2-3 tablespoons in water.
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Baking soda: A gentle abrasive that lifts grime. Sprinkle on walls.
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Vinegar: Helps dissolve residue. Mix with water for cleaning.
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Spray bottle: For vinegar-water or soapy solutions. Apply to walls.
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Damp sponges/towels: Wipe away dirt and grime loosened by cleaning solutions.
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Water: Rinse soap and cleaning solutions after use.
Optional:
- Essential oils (lemon, peppermint): Eliminate odors
- Non-scratch scouring pad: Gently rub stuck-on food
Step-By-Step Deep Cleaning Method
Follow these steps to thoroughly deep-clean your microwave:
1. Remove Turntable And Accessories
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Take out glass turntable, racks, and other removable parts.
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Wash accessories in warm soapy water; dry completely.
2. Mix Baking Soda + Water Paste
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In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons baking soda with 1 tablespoon water.
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Stir to form a spreadable paste.
3. Apply Baking Soda Paste
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Use a damp sponge or cloth to spread paste on walls and ceiling, targeting grimy areas.
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Leave paste on for 5 minutes to lift and absorb grease.
4. Mix Vinegar + Dish Soap + Water
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To a spray bottle, add:
- 1 cup water
- 1⁄4 cup vinegar
- 2 tablespoons dish soap
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Shake bottle to mix cleaning solution.
5. Spray Walls + Ceiling With Solution
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Spray the baking soda paste with the vinegar-soap solution.
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Let it fizz and bubble for 2-3 minutes.
6. Wipe Away Grime And Residue
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Use a damp sponge or towel to gently wipe down walls and ceiling.
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Rinse sponge/towel frequently to remove dissolving grime.
7. Rinse Surfaces
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Take a clean damp sponge and wipe away any remaining cleaning solution.
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Rinse with water until all soap is removed.
8. Dry Surfaces
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Wipe down walls and ceiling with a dry towel.
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Remove any moisture to prevent streaks.
9. Replace Parts
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Return turntable, racks, and other removed parts.
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Your microwave will look like new again!
Tips For A Sparkling Clean
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For stuck-on splatters, let solutions sit for 5+ minutes before wiping.
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Use a non-scratch scouring pad for stubborn spots.
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For odors, add 5 drops lemon essential oil to cleaning solutions.
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Deep clean the outside of the microwave too with soapy water.
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Replace worn turntable trays/rollers for optimal performance.
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Clean the microwave vent filters above the unit.
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Leave microwave door open post-cleaning to let interior air out.
Conclusion
Deep-cleaning your microwave without scrubbing is simple with baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap. Monthly deep cleans keep your microwave looking and working like new. Just remember to take out removable parts, apply a baking soda paste, spray a vinegar-soap solution, wipe away grime, rinse, and dry. In no time, you’ll have a sparkling clean microwave!
