How to Clean your Microwave

Whether you are someone who uses your microwave to cook whole meals, or just to heat up leftovers and popcorn, you will know that they can get smelly and grimy from time to time. While cleaning them can seem like a bit of a pain, it’s much quicker and easier than cleaning a traditional oven.

So, how do you go about cleaning your microwave, and what are some tips to keep it that way?

A quick wipe over with a damp sponge and some All Purpose Cleaner will remove those sticky fingerprints and spills on the front panel and door frame of your microwave. Make sure you open the door and get into all those hard-to-reach places around the edges of the door seals.

It’s important not to neglect the door itself. Glass cleaner on a damp sponge can be used on the glass both outside and inside the door. Just be sure to wipe away all traces of the cleaner, particularly inside the door.

If there are stainless steel panels on the microwave, give them a wipe with Stainless Steel Polish to protect against rust.

1. Remove the rotating glass plate and ring it sits on.
2. With only water, apply a damp sponge wipe over the interior of the microwave.
3. Wipe the inside of the microwave with a damp sponge and All Purpose Cleaner. If there are stubborn stains you may use a little extra cleaner or Dishwashing Liquid. Try and remove as much residue as possible with a sponge that contains only water
4. If you wish to ensure all the chemicals and smells are removed, you can wipe the interior out with Methylated Spirits and leave the door open for a good airing.
5. Wash the rotating plate and ring in warm water and Dishwashing Liquid. Dry thoroughly before returning it to the microwave.

If you want, once it is thoroughly clean, you can wipe out the interior of your microwave with a dash of vanilla essence on a damp sponge. Alternatively, place half a lemon on a plate with a couple of spoonfuls of water and microwave for 10-20 seconds. This will ensure a natural, fresh smell.

1. Invest in some good quality microwave containers with lids to reduce spatter. Never microwave without a lid.
2. If you microwave something that has a strong smell, leave the door open for a while afterwards to avoid trapping the smell inside.
3. If you steam vegies in the microwave, give the oven a quick wipe out with paper towel when you’re finished to take advantage of the ‘steam’ the oven has just had.

If you would like further information or advice on the best way to tackle your particular cleaning related problems, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] or (02) 9838 1220.

Products recommended in this article:

All Purpose Cleaner
Dishwashing Liquid
Concentrated Dishwashing Liquid
Window Cleaner
Stainless Steel Polish
Methylated Spirits