How to Remove Odours from a Microwave

Microwave is one of the most used appliances in homes. It is used more than the washing machine, oven, and in some cases the stovetop. This is because microwaves help to heat leftovers and frozen or canned foods and prepare hot drinks instantly. The constant use of this appliance makes it filled with different smells. People start to notice unpleasant odours, particularly if they fail to clean the interior of their microwaves once every week.

Even after cleaning, the smell of old food or something else might stay. It can get into your meals and the kitchen. So, it is important to use odour-removing strategies similar to the ones used by the professionals who offer best bond cleaning Sunshine Coast. Here is how to remove odours from a microwave. Follow along to maintain a fresh-smelling microwave.

1. Steam Water in the Microwave

Steam helps soften stuck-on and odour-causing grime on the sides, top and bottom of the microwave, making it easier to wipe them. Simply add about 1 cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl before heating it for 3 to 5 minutes.

In case you are dealing with stronger smells, such as burnt fish, add about one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to the bowl before heating. Professional bond cleaners Sunshine Coast and house cleaners recommend allowing the bowl to sit there for an additional 15 minutes, as that will ensure extra steaming power.

2. Wipe Down the Interior

After the steam has softened the soil, dip a clean cloth or a gentle sponge in a mixture of water and dish soap before using it to wipe down the microwave’s interior, including the door. If you own a model that has a stainless steel interior, rub in the metal grain’s direction.

For stubborn grime, dip a sponge in warm water and use the rougher side for scrubbing. After completion, do not forget to sanitise the sponge. Next, take out the turntable and clean it either in the dishwasher or the sink.

3. Rinse and Dry the Microwave

After wiping the interior of your microwave, use a damp cloth to rinse away the soap remnants. Next, if there is remaining water, soak it up with a clean, dry cloth. According to the expert bond cleaners Sunshine Coast, it is best to keep the microwave door open for no less than two hours so that it can air dry properly.

4. Deodorise the Microwave

In case the previous steps failed to remove odours, deodorising the microwave overnight becomes necessary. Household items like baking soda and coffee grounds are the best options for this job. Simply place about one cup of dry coffee grounds or an open box of baking soda inside the microwave at night before going to sleep.

In the morning, take it out. Remember to inform your family members must not use the appliance till the time it is deodorised. Freshening up the microwave should be a part of every good cleaning schedule.

5. Use Citrus Fruits to Eliminate Odours

Many homeowners frequently use citrus fruits to get rid of unpleasant kitchen odours, and they are a great choice for freshening up the microwave. A simple fruit mixture can be enough to remove any tough smell. Start by slicing a lemon in half or peeling two oranges. Place the peels or fruit in a bowl that contains about 2 cups of water. Let the bowl microwave for at least 4 minutes.

However, it is a must to stay careful to make sure that the bowl does not boil dry and the citrus does not burn. Leaving the bowl inside the microwave and keeping the door unopened overnight or for 12 hours is a good idea. It will eliminate any tough odours, making the microwave smell fresh.

6. Tips for Maintaining a Fresh-Smelling Microwave

Following some basic tips will allow you to prevent bad odours and keep the microwave smelling fresh for longer, allowing you to prepare food in a clean appliance.

• Avoid causing any damage to the microwave’s interior during cleaning by utilising gentle cloths and sponges.
• Be careful when microwaving dry items such as popcorn or bread because they might burn and leave behind a bad smell.
• If something burns, promptly steam clean the microwave with lemon slices or vinegar.
• Ensure the containers used are microwave-safe. Refrain from using things like paper bags.
• Do not heat food items that have a higher chance of exploding. This includes whole fruits, hot peppers, or whole eggs.
• Think about replacing the charcoal filter of your microwave in case the burnt smell remains after cleaning and deodorising.
• Use staples such as vinegar, lemon juice, coffee grounds, and vanilla extract to deodorise the appliance’s interior.
• Promptly wipe away any spills to stop them from becoming burnt.

It is understandable that some people might be unable to follow all these tips, particularly when nearing the end of their tenancy. In such a situation, hire professionals who budget bond cleaning Sunshine Coast for the best cleaning results.

Tips to Remove Odours from a Microwave

Wrapping up

Many people clean their microwaves only after they notice bad odours. But the best way to remove odours is to prevent them in the first place. However, if your microwave has unpleasant smells, follow the steps mentioned above to get rid of them.