
Regular cleaning is important as accumulated splatter can decrease your microwave’s efficiency, and they can even be the cause of fires. Plus, a 2014 study found traces of E-Coli in a typical household microwave! A2012 study by Kimberly Clark found 48% of office microwave door handles contaminated with various germs, none of which you’d want to bring home to your family.
This blog will teach you 7 simple and effective ways to clean your microwave. After cleaning the inside of your microwave with any of these tips, make sure you wipe down the handle afterwards.
Method 1: Vinegar and Water
Vinegar and water is a simple and natural go-to for cleaning most household appliances. Mix one part vinegar and one part water in a microwave-safe bowl, and place it inside the microwave. Allow it to steam for a while (the time will vary depending on your microwave’s power, so keep an eye on it) and wipe it dry when it’s done.
Method 2: Baking Soda
Another easy solution featuring a product you likely already have. Make a paste of two tablespoons of baking soda and water, apply it to any stains in your microwave, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Wipe it off with a damp sponge or paper towel, and you’re done! Repeat the process for harder caked-on stains if necessary.
Method 3: Wet Paper Towel
This is a simple quick fix for those easier stains. Place a couple of damp paper towels on the turntable and turn your microwave on high for 5 minutes. This will create steam that will cause the food marks to disappear onto your paper towels, which you then just throw away.
Method 4: Dish Soap
This is essentially the paper towel method, but is quicker and requires one more ingredient. Mix dish soap and water in a microwave-safe bowl and run it on high for 1 minute, or until it steams. When it’s done, remove the bowl and dip a sponge or paper towel in it to wipe down the inside.
Method 5: Lemon
The trusty lemon comes in handy yet again. Like vinegar, it is a natural cleaner. Simply cut a lemon in half and place it cut side down on the turntable. Add a couple of drops of water and turn it on until it steams. Wipe down any excess liquid, and you’re done!
Method 6: Commercial Cleaners
For those hard and stubborn stains, a commercial cleaner may be the way to go. They’re available anywhere you buy your usual cleaning products and just as easy to use as any of the above methods. Just make sure you choose one that won’t leave a bad smell, and remember to read the instructions specific to the type you buy.
Method 7: Window Cleaner For the Doors
While you tend not to notice the door, once you give it a clean you’ll see how badly it needed it! Dilute window cleaner with water and dip a paper towel or sponge in it. Scrub the door well and you’re good to go.
Microwave Safety Tips
- Unless you’re using a method that requires power, ensure you turn off and unplug the microwave first.
- Feel free to put the turntable in the dishwasher or wash it by hand every now and then— just always remember to put it back before using it.
- Be careful when using liquids— microwaves are electronic after all, and you don’t want to damage it.
- If your microwave suddenly stops working, it may be an internal issue. Call a repairperson in this case before attempting any of the above.
We hope this article has been useful for you to clean your office microwave. At Cleantastic we offer commercial cleaning for all types of business environments. We also have franchise opportunities available across Australia. For further information, please click one of the buttons below to request a quote or a franchise info pack.