Whether the microwave has been the victim of a burnt popcorn bag or reheated fish, knowing how to deodorise it and keep it clean is essential. Microwaves work very hard in kitchens across the globe, from helping cooks with a quick fix to helping office workers heat their lunch to get them through the rest of the day. Follow our easy guide to get your microwave in tip-top shape, without the lingering smells.
Step-by-step deodorising guide
1. Wipe down the microwave
Using a microfibre cloth and warm, soapy water, wipe down the exterior of the microwave first. Make sure the back panel is cleared of dust buildup. Rinse the cloth before moving into the interior. Wipe every interior panel, ensuring any food particles or spills are removed. Don’t forget the top panel! This is where most of the spills and food particles end up during use. If left uncleaned, the buildup and warm environment that the microwave creates will start to smell.
2. Remove the tray
Remove the tray from the microwave. Wipe any crumbs or spills that may have collected underneath. Then, wash it with warm soapy water, and thoroughly dry it before replacing it.
3. Deodorising time
Whether you’ve managed to wipe down all the spills and stains, or you’re left with stubborn ones, it’s always a good idea to regularly deodorise the microwave. This not only rids of foul smells, but also sanitises the inside panels, preventing harmful bacterial growth.
Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water (about half to three-quarters full). Add fresh lemon juice (about the amount from one fresh lemon) to this; you can even add the lemon to the bowl, too. If you don’t have any fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice or vinegar will work too.
Close the door and run the microwave on high for two minutes. Carefully remove the bowl afterwards (use a cloth, it’s going to be super hot). Then, dampen a microfibre cloth with warm water and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and wipe away any water droplets and residue left over.
How to keep it smelling fresh in between cleaning
You might not be able to clean your microwave after each use, but there are ways you can keep it smelling fresh:
- If it really smells and you don’t have more than 5 minutes, wipe the interior down with a microfibre cloth dampened with hot water and vinegar
- Keep the door ajar after each use (moisture not only traps heat but also encourages bacterial and mould growth, all leading to foul smells)
- Fill a small bowl with vanilla essence or a mixture of water and vinegar. After every use, keep the bowl inside to absorb any unwanted smells.
