Cleaning your microwave is an essential task in weekly kitchen maintenance to help avoid tough to clean, caked on messes and prevent potential mechanical issues caused by soil build up. Regardless if it’s splattered with pasta sauce, encrusted with burnt-on cheese or slick with oil from leftover fries, learn how to clean your microwave’s interior and exterior in three easy steps.
When it comes to cleaning a microwave, there are several common household supplies that you can use to keep your appliance smelling and looking fresh. These include liquid dish soap, a soft cloth, a bit of water and a microwave-safe container.
When cleaning a microwave, it is crucial to use products that won't damage the surface, while still successfully eliminating any built-up residue or odor.
Microwave-safe container
Soft cloth or sponge
Vinegar or lemon juice (optional)
Appliance cleaner (optional)
Loosen hard to remove spills and splatters : Fill a lidless microwave-safe container with 1 cup of water and set the microwave for 3 to 5 minutes to help steam and loosen the stuck-on gunk. Allow to cool, then remove the container and wipe down surfaces with a damp soft cloth or sponge. Once done cleaning, you can sanitize the sponge in the microwave .
Wipe down the microwave cavity : Clean the interior walls with a dilution of mild dish soap and water on a soft cloth or sponge. If you have a model with a stainless steel cavity wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid damage.
Remove soap residue and dry : Wipe down the interior using a damp cloth to rinse surfaces, and dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.
If you have a microwave hood combination you’ll find the grease filter on the underside of your microwave oven. Grease filters should be removed and cleaned with mild soap and water or washed in a dishwasher, as instructed in your microwave manual.
Microwaves are a convenient way to quickly heat up your favorite foods; however, the splatter of sauces and other liquids can add time to the clean up process after your meal. To prevent microwave splatter, consider using a microwave splatter screen or cover to prevent food from covering the walls of your appliance.
Microwave splatter screens and covers are tools that you can use to help keep your microwave clean and make clean up time easier. Simply place the cover over your dish before microwaving and enjoy your meal.
If you’re experiencing the unpleasant, smoky odor that can happen when food gets burnt in a microwave, there are several simple methods you can try to banish the burnt smell and leave your microwave smelling refreshed.
Create a mixture of water and lemon juice or vinegar : Heat 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of either lemon juice or vinegar in a lidless microwave-safe container for 2 to 5 minutes in the microwave oven.
Dry with a microfiber cloth : Once cooled, remove the container and wipe down the interior.
Maytag ® countertop and over-the-range microwaves are tested tough for maximum dependability, and select models with a stainless steel cavity are designed to resist any splatter from messy meals. Whether you're reheating leftovers or steaming veggies during a busy mealtime, Maytag ® microwaves are built for the long haul.
1. affresh ® brand products and the recommending brands’ products are all owned and distributed by Whirlpool Corporation.
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