How To Clean A Microwave Oven

Ever wonder how to clean a microwave oven that looks like a spaghetti bomb exploded in it?

Or one where you burned a bag of popcorn, and the smell just won't go away?

Well, microwave ovens are actually some of the easiest items to clean up in your kitchen.

7 Steps For Cleaning A Microwave

1. Wipe out all large particles of food and other crumbs inside the microwave.



2. Fill a bowl about halfway with water, and bring it to a boil in the microwave, approximately 2-3 minutes.



3. If your microwave also has a smell, add lemon juice to the water before boiling.



4. After the microwave has stopped keep the door of the microwave closed for an additional 5 minutes or so to allow the steamy water to work on loosening all the gunk and splatters inside.



5. Take the water out VERY CAREFULLY. (Sorry, I don't mean to shout, but I don't want you to get burned by the still scalding water when you take it out.)



6. Now you can easily wipe out all the food particles and splatters because they were loosened by the steam.



7. In the future, make sure that you wipe up all spills as they occur to keep from having to do this steam cleaning too often.

No Harsh Abrasive Cleaners

Now a word of caution on how to clean a microwave -- do not use abrasive cleaners inside the microwave.

You can also try a paste of baking soda and water to clean the inside of your microwave if there is an odor, although I prefer the method above with the lemon juice.

Video Guide For Microwave Cleaning

Still want more information?

Watch this step-by-step video on cleaning a microwave (it is less than two minutes long).

Related Links At Household Management 101

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Daily Kitchen Cleaning Tips

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