Microwaves are indispensable kitchen appliances that save time, reheat leftovers, and assist in cooking quick meals. However, they can develop stubborn odors over time that are difficult to eliminate, even after airing out or wiping down. Fortunately, this guide will walk you through how to remove odor from your microwave using various effective techniques, ensuring it smells as fresh as the day you bought it.
Immediate Steps to Take
When you first notice an unpleasant odor, don’t ignore it. The longer you leave it, the more challenging it is to remove. Initially, you should unplug the microwave for safety reasons.
Remove the Source of the Odor
Take out any food remnants, splatters, or spills immediately. Ensure you dispose of any containers or utensils that were in the microwave when the odor started. This is crucial because food particles can be a primary source of lingering smells.
Everyday Household Items
You don’t necessarily need fancy cleaners or chemicals to get rid of microwave odors. Several everyday household items can do the trick effectively.
Baking Soda
One of the most versatile cleaning agents, baking soda, can work wonders inside a microwave. Simply mix three tablespoons of baking soda with a cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it for about five minutes. The steam will lift off any stuck-on food particles and neutralize odors. Once done, wipe down the interior with a clean cloth for a fresh finish.
Vinegar
Vinegar is another excellent deodorizer. Combine equal parts water and vinegar in a bowl and heat it in the microwave for about five minutes. The vinegar steam will break down grease and absorb odors. Afterward, wipe the interior surfaces with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residual vinegar.
Fragrant Alternatives
Some prefer using fragrant solutions instead of plain vinegar or baking soda. Here are a couple of fragrant alternatives that also do the job well.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice has a fresh citrus scent and has natural bleaching qualities, making it ideal for cleaning. Squeeze the juice of one or two lemons into a bowl of water and microwave it for five minutes. The steam will lift stuck-on food and leave a pleasant citrus fragrance. After heating, wipe down the microwave interior with a clean cloth.
Vanilla Extract
For a more sweet-smelling alternative, you can use vanilla extract. Add one tablespoon of vanilla extract to a cup of water and microwave it for about five minutes. The vanilla steam will infuse the microwave with a pleasing aroma, masking any lingering odors. Wipe down the inside with a soft cloth afterward.
The Power of Absorption
Another effective way to combat microwave odors is by using substances known for their absorbing qualities.
Charcoal Briquettes
You might think charcoal is just for barbecues, but it can also absorb unwanted smells. Place a few charcoal briquettes in a bowl (make sure it’s safe for use with food) and leave it in the microwave overnight. The charcoal will absorb the unpleasant odors, leaving the microwave smelling clean by morning.
Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds can also absorb and eliminate microwave odors. Place a cup of dry coffee grounds in an open container inside the microwave and leave it for a few hours or overnight. Similar to charcoal, the coffee grounds will absorb the unwanted smells, neutralizing the microwave’s interior environment.
Cleaning Tips for Persistent Odors
Sometimes a simple wipe-down isn’t enough. Here’s what to do when odors are especially stubborn.
Thorough Deep Cleaning
Remove the turntable and any other removable parts, such as racks or trays, if your microwave has them. Wash these separately with dish soap and warm water. Also, clean the interior walls, ceiling, and floor of the microwave. Ensure you get into the corners and any other hidden spots where food particles might be trapped.
Use a Microwave Cleaning Gel
These specialty cleaning gels are formulated to deal with tough microwave odors and stains. Apply the gel according to the product’s guidelines and let it sit for the allotted time. Then, wipe it off with a damp cloth. The gel will target and remove persistent food residues and smells effectively.
Regular Maintenance
Preventing odors is easier than removing them. Implement these regular maintenance tips to keep your microwave smelling fresh.
After Each Use
Wipe down the microwave’s interior after each use. Even if there are no visible spills, this practice will prevent buildup and lingering smells.
Monthly Cleaning
Make it a habit to perform deep cleaning sessions monthly to keep your microwave in top shape. This will help you nip any potential odor problems in the bud before they become serious.
Additional Tips
Sometimes you’ll need to go the extra mile to combat those especially stubborn smells.
Use Microwave Covers
Always use microwave-safe covers or lids when heating food. This will minimize splatters and spills, which are often the culprits behind persistent odors.
Store Unused Parts Separately
If you don’t use your microwave daily, consider storing the turntable and any other removable parts separately. This will make cleaning easier and prevent the accumulation of odors inside the microwave.
Special Considerations
Different types of smells require unique solutions. Below are some specific cases and how to address them.
Burnt Food Smells
If you’ve burned something in the microwave, first, air it out by keeping the door open for a few hours. Then, use the baking soda or vinegar methods mentioned above. You might need to repeat the process a few times for particularly strong burnt smells.
Fish or Spicy Food Odors
Fish and spicy foods can leave very strong smells. In these cases, using more than one method can be effective. Start with vinegar steam, followed by baking soda, and finish with a fragrant option like lemon juice or vanilla extract.
Tips for how to remove odor from microwave
- Clean Regularly: Regularly clean your microwave to prevent the buildup of odors in the first place.
- Open the Door: After using the microwave, leave the door open for a few minutes to allow air to circulate and reduce the chance of odors lingering.
- Avoid Spills: Cover your food to prevent spills and splatters, which can cause bad smells if left uncleaned.
Baking Soda Solution:
- Step 1: Mix a couple of tablespoons of baking soda with one cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Step 2: Microwave the mixture on high for 5 minutes to allow the baking soda to absorb any unwanted odors.
- Step 3: Let it sit for a few minutes inside the closed microwave.
- Step 4: Remove the bowl and wipe down the interior with a clean cloth or sponge.
Activated Charcoal:
- Step 1: Place some activated charcoal in a bowl inside the microwave. Make sure it’s in a ventilated container.
- Step 2: Leave it in the microwave for several hours or overnight to naturally absorb any lingering smells.
Conclusion: how to remove odor from microwave
Removing odors from your microwave involves more than just covering them up; it means tackling them at their source. Learn how to remove odor from a microwave using common household items like baking soda and vinegar, or opt for fragrant solutions such as lemon juice and vanilla extract. Regularly maintaining your microwave and promptly addressing any unpleasant smells will ensure it stays fresh and clean. Follow these techniques and enjoy a pleasant-smelling microwave every time you open its door.