Got a disorganized microwave? Want to quickly clean the microwave up before the holiday? Not only is it possible to clean a microwave without using harsh chemicals in a place where we also heat our food, but this method is also by far the simplest. So, how to clean a microwave with lemon?
Prepare the tools and materials, then create a cleaning solution, create steam, let the steam do the work, remove the cleaning solution, wipe away the interior grime, clean the door, and clean the microwave turntable.
That’s right, this all-natural lemon hack will make you very happy if you’ve been putting off cleaning your microwave.
What You’ll Need
Equipment / Tools
- Microwaveable dish
- Sponge
- Microfiber cloths
- Sink or large tub
Materials
- Lemon
- Baking soda
- Dishwashing liquid
- Melamine sponge (Mr. Clean Magic Eraser)
Read about
Instructions: How to Clean a Microwave With Lemon?
Create a Cleaning Solution
In a bowl or large cup that can go in the microwave, pour one cup of water. Add a slice of lemon to the cup.
If you don’t have a fresh lemon, you can substitute three tablespoons of canned lemon juice. Don’t have either? Use lime slices, lime juice, grapefruit peels, or orange peels instead.
Another substitute that doesn’t smell quite so nice is distilled white vinegar. To the water, add a half cup.
Create Steam
In the microwave, put the water and lemon mixture. Set the microwave’s controls to high so that the water fully boils for a sufficient amount of time to produce steam that coats the interior of the device.
Let the Steam Do the Work
Avoid opening the door for at least five minutes after the microwave’s interior is covered in steam. All of the food splatter is being softened and loosen by the steam.
Remove the Cleaning Solution
Open the microwave after about five minutes, then take out the bowl containing the water and lemon slices. It ought to be comfortable, not scorching.
Remove all of the parts from a microwave turntable and place them to the side. This will make interior cleaning much easier.
Wipe Away the Interior Grime
Dip a clean kitchen sponge or microfiber cloth in the lemon water solution and squeeze out most of the water. Wipe the sides, top, and bottom of the microwave’s interior with the damp sponge. Sponge should be frequently rinsed.
Dip the damp sponge or cloth in some dry baking soda if the food particles still refuse to come off. To loosen the food, the baking soda will work as a mild abrasive. For food that just will not budge, dampen a melamine sponge (or Mr. Clean Magic Eraser) and scrub gently. A clean, damp sponge should always be used to finish the job.
Clean the Door
To clean the interior of the microwave door, use the same lemon water. To maintain a tight seal, remember to clean the rubber gasket around the door.
Add one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid to one cup of hot water if the door interior or gasket feels greasy. Use a sponge to clean the door after dipping it in the solution. To get rid of any soap residue, thoroughly rinse the sponge and wipe it again.
The lemon and water mixture can also be used to clean the exterior of the door. Use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface to a shine after wiping down the exterior, paying special attention to the control panel and door handles.
Clean the Microwave Turntable
To clean the turntable parts, fill a sink or big tub with warm water and a few drops of dish soap. After dislodging food particles with a sponge, thoroughly rinse the area. Dry with a lint-free microfiber cloth and reassemble in the microwave.
How Often Should I Clean the Microwave?
Spend less time in the long run by regularly cleaning your microwave. Daily wipe downs will lessen the frequency of future deep cleans, even though it may seem like a lot of work.
Try to clean your microwave at least twice a week if you don’t have time to do so after each use. Leaving the splattered food for long periods of time will not only cause nasty odours but is also a breeding ground for bacteria. Nobody wants a microwave that has mold growing inside of it because bacteria will eventually turn to mold.
Food splatters and spills that have been around for a while may have a negative impact on how your food tastes. Particles and bacteria that enter your food during cooking can harm your health in addition to tainting the flavor of your food. Just keep in mind that regular cleaning is essential to keeping a microwave clean and hygienic.
Why Should I Clean the Microwave?
When food splatters are not cleaned up, grease and grime can quickly accumulate in the microwave. Not only will the build-up of these substances decrease the efficiency of your microwave but it can also be dangerous. If the undesirable bacteria get into the food you are cooking, it may be harmful to your health. Your warranty may be void if there are food scraps and leftover splatters on the appliance. It’s crucial to take care of your microwave if you want to preserve both your health and safety and its lifespan.
How to Enjoy a Clean Microwave Oven More Often?
Wouldn’t it be wonderful to be able to maintain a clean and pleasant smell in your microwave at all times? Use these helpful tips to keep messes under control if you want to take advantage of a clean microwave oven more and avoid deep cleanings.
- Every few days, take out the platter and turntable from the microwave and wash them in the sink.
- Every day, clean the touchpad and exterior of your microwave.
- When warming messy foods, turn the power down.
- Use a paper towel or plate to cover food in your microwave to catch spills.
- For food that spills over, place a plate underneath bowls and other dishes.
- Spills should be quickly cleaned up.
- Leave the door to your microwave open in between uses to lessen moisture and smells.
FAQs
Is Lemon Good for Cleaning Microwave?
Using lemon, though, is a simple, natural and easy way to clean a microwave, and it makes your house smell fresh, too. To remove burned-on food and enjoy the enticing aromas that come with lemon juice cleaning, all you have to do is steam-clean the microwave.
How Long to Keep a Lemon in Microwave Clean?
Once that’s done, slide the bowl into the microwave and set the time for 3 minutes or until the water boils. Leave the bowl in the microwave for another 5 minutes after it’s done boiling, allowing the acidity from the lemon and steam from the water to loosen and dissolve those hard-to-scrub food stains.
Is It Better to Clean Microwave With Lemon Or Vinegar?
You can omit the lemon juice if you don’t have any. However, I highly recommend you use lemon to clean the microwave if you can. As if that wasn’t enough of a benefit, it also boosts the effectiveness of the all-natural cleaning ingredients by reducing the potent vinegar smell.
How Much Lemon Water Do I Use to Clean My Microwave?
Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice in a bowl and place the bowl in the center of your empty microwave. 2 minutes on high in the microwave. After the microwave has steamed up, clean the interior with a damp cloth.
Can You Put Whole Lemons in the Microwave?
Simply heating the lemon in the microwave for 10 to 20 seconds will yield more juice than any other method. Avoid halving the lemon because the heat will absorb the moisture. Instead, just put a whole lemon so that the absorption of juice is well prevented.
