Most kitchens these days surely got a microwave oven. And why not, as this single piece of appliance is very versatile. From making snacks like popcorn, reheating food from the ref to making dishes – you name it, this oven can do it. However, it’s also one of those appliances which often receive less cleaning and maintenance.
There may be different kinds of such oven available. However, their general cleaning and maintenance needs remain equally the same. The countertop microwave oven is perhaps the most common kind of them all. Usually, cleaning it involves getting rid of food particles stuck along the inside walls. Eliminating nasty odors is also a part of it.
Prior to cleaning, always ensure that you have unplugged the oven. Using an ordinary kitchen cleaning solution, spray the inside walls thoroughly. Allow it to stay there for a few minutes to make it work. If you want, you can also create your own solution. A paste made of baking soda and vinegar is highly effective. You may also use plain vinegar or club soda, and transfer them into a spray bottle.
Use a damp sponge or towel to remove the cleaning solution. You may rinse it once in a while with warm water if you deem necessary. Once completely clean, you can proceed to drying the walls with kitchen or paper towels. Different ovens may require different cleaning precautions. So if you own a GE microwave oven, for example, read the manual that comes with it.
Eliminating the smell inside the oven is not at all that difficult. Get 2-3 lemons, cut them into thin slices, and place in a bowl of water. Heat it in the microwave for around 5 minutes. You may also use a cup of water with a tablespoon of vinegar. The same is true with lemon juice sold at grocery stores.
An over the range microwave oven is actually two appliances in one. Therefore you also need to clean the vent part. Remove the hood filter and place it in a tub of hot water for about 5 minutes. Remove, then spray with your choice of cleaning solution and let soak for 15 minutes. Scrub the vent with a non-abrasive pad, then rinse with water.
Spray the inside of the vent with your choice of cleaning solution. Make sure to avoid the light and crevices. Let it stay there for 15 minutes before wiping off with a damp cloth or sponge. Repeat until the solution is completely gone. Use a brush for hard-to-reach areas. Dry with a paper towel thoroughly, then replace the filter.
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