Cleaning the microwave can be one of those dreaded kitchen chores, especially when grease stains and splatters seem to set in like concrete. Over time, these stubborn stains not only make your microwave look grimy but can also affect its functionality and even start to smell if left untreated. Luckily, my Nana taught me a simple trick that makes cleaning those grease stains almost effortless. Here’s how it works.
The Magic of Steam Cleaning
My Nana always believed in natural cleaning methods, avoiding harsh chemicals whenever possible. Her trick for cleaning the microwave is all about using steam to loosen up the grease and grime. With just a few household ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can make your microwave look brand new again.
What You’ll Need:
1 microwave-safe bowl
1 cup of water
2 tablespoons of white vinegar
1 lemon or lemon juice (optional, for a fresh scent)
A clean cloth or sponge
Step-by-Step Guide:
Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix 1 cup of water with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar. If you want to add a pleasant scent and extra cleaning power, you can also squeeze in the juice of a lemon or add a few tablespoons of lemon juice to the mixture. You can even throw in the lemon halves after squeezing them for an added burst of citrus freshness.
Heat the Solution: Place the bowl in the microwave and set it on high for about 5 minutes. The idea is to bring the mixture to a boil, which will create steam. Depending on the power of your microwave, you might need to adjust the time slightly. The steam will fill the microwave, condensing on the walls, ceiling, and even the door, softening the grease and food stains.
Let It Sit: Once the microwave stops, don’t open the door immediately. Let the bowl sit inside for another 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the steam to do its magic, breaking down the grease and grime. The longer you let the steam sit, the more effective this method will be at loosening the tough stains.
Wipe Away the Grime: Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave – it might be hot, so use oven mitts or a towel. Take a clean cloth or sponge and wipe down the inside of the microwave. You’ll notice that the grease and grime come off easily with minimal scrubbing. For any particularly stubborn spots, dip the cloth or sponge into the warm vinegar solution and give those areas a little extra attention.
Final Rinse: Once all the grease and stains have been removed, take a clean, damp cloth and wipe down the inside of the microwave to remove any leftover vinegar residue. You’ll be left with a clean, fresh-smelling microwave with almost zero effort!
Why This Method Works
