After coming back from winter break, I like to give my space a deep clean to start my spring semester with a blank slate. As a college student living on campus, my “dorm kitchen” consists of my trusty microwave and… that’s it. Needless to say, it gets a lot of use but not enough attention during my lighter cleans. But cleaning your microwave is easier than you may think. Here’s how to make your microwave sparkle and keep it shining for the rest of the year.
How do you clean the inside of your microwave?
Being that Whirlpool specializes in appliances, the brand naturally has a fool-proof method for cleaning your microwave, well, naturally. Mix one cup of water, one tablespoon of vinegar, and either one tablespoon of lemon juice or several tablespoons of baking soda in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the mixture between two and five minutes, let the bowl cool, and then remove. Finally, wipe the inside of your microwave down with a damp rag, and you should be set for another semester’s worth of microwave burritos.
If you want to save yourself a trip to the grocery store and use things you already have, wet a paper towel with warm water and add a drop of your favorite liquid dish soap. Gently wipe out the microwave with the soapy paper towel and remove any excess suds with another damp rag. For tough grime, remember that you can take the turnable out of most microwaves and wash in the sink with dish soap and warm water.
How do you clean your microwave filter?
There are many different kinds of microwaves, but there are two main types of filters: the grease filter and the charcoal filter. Grease filters keep debris from entering the microwave’s vent system. They are typically located under the microwave. According to Maytag, you should submerge the filter in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes and then lightly scrub clean. For especially greasy filters, Maytag recommends adding ¼ cup of baking soda to the water. It’s suggested that you clean your grease filter about every three months. Charcoal filters absorb odor from the microwave so your kitchen doesn’t smell. Maytag recommends replacing your charcoal filters every six months, although it’s likely your school’s responsibility to change them.
How do you keep your microwave clean?
The hardest residue to remove from your microwave is often dry and baked on. Clean up spills as soon as they happen to avoid any tough-to-remove messes. Using a plate cover will also keep your microwave clean from oil splatters. For a budget-friendly option, use a wet paper towel or another microwave-safe dish to cover your food while reheating.