The microwave is a daily helper in many households, in others it is used less frequently. Regardless, bacteria and germs accumulate through food residues, which is why regular cleaning is important.
For hygienic reasons and to extend the life of the appliance, careful care is essential. We'll show you how to clean your microwave effectively and in an environmentally friendly way using natural household products. Here are our best tips for chemical-free cleaning.
How often should you clean your microwave?
Leftover food and splashes in the microwave are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Regular cleaning will help you minimize health risks . Old food leftovers can also develop unpleasant odors that can be transferred to newly heated food.
On top of that, a clean microwave works more efficiently. Dirt and residue can affect the absorption of microwaves, which has a negative effect on the heating time . Regular cleaning also protects the internal components of your microwave and extends its lifespan. But when should you reach for the cleaning cloth?
- After each use: To avoid the accumulation of residue, always wipe off any dirt or spills immediately.
- Weekly routine: For general cleanliness, it is recommended that you thoroughly clean your microwave at least once a week.
- For visible dirt: As soon as you notice stains or dried food residue, it is time for a thorough cleaning.
- After heating strong-smelling foods: Some foods leave behind strong odors. Clean your microwave after heating such foods to prevent odors from transferring to other foods.
However, you can safely avoid using chemical cleaners when cleaning your microwave. We'll show you how to do it more sustainably.
Cleaning a dirty microwave: home remedies for perfect cleanliness and freshness
You don't need any chemical cleaners to clean your microwave effectively. You can usually find natural household remedies in your kitchen that are both practical and environmentally friendly . You can clean your microwave quickly and easily with vinegar, lemon or dishwashing liquid.
All you need is a dishcloth to wipe down the inside of your microwave. The following methods are not only simple, but also sustainable. See for yourself!
Clean microwave with citric acid
Citric acid not only removes dirt, it also eliminates bacteria and bad smells . This simple and natural method helps you keep your microwave clean and fresh without the use of chemicals.
For this effective and environmentally friendly method, you need about two teaspoons of citric acid powder and a cup of water. Then proceed as follows:
- Step: Dissolve the citric acid in the water.
- Step: Place the cup of citric acid solution in the microwave and heat it on high for about three to five minutes. The solution should come to a boil and produce steam.
- Step: After the microwave is turned off, leave the cup inside for about five to ten minutes. The steam from the citric acid solution will help loosen grease and dirt and remove the odor from the microwave .
- Step: Remove the cup and wipe the inside of the microwave with a damp cloth. Stubborn stains should now come off more easily. But be careful! To avoid burns, you should use an oven mitt when removing the hot cup.
- Step: Don't forget to also clean the turntable, the turntable holder, the door and the outside of the microwave with the citric acid solution . This is where bacteria also accumulate and need to be eliminated.
Emma Grün Tip: For a stronger cleaning effect, you can leave the heated citric acid mixture in the microwave for longer . To prevent the formation of stubborn dirt and to remove unpleasant odors from the microwave, we recommend that you use this method regularly.
Clean microwave with vinegar
Vinegar is a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical cleaning products. This inexpensive household remedy is particularly effective at removing grease and stubborn food residue . On top of that , vinegar neutralizes unpleasant odors and leaves a fresh, clean scent . Since vinegar is non-toxic, it is ideal for surfaces that come into contact with food. Here's how to clean it:
- Prepare ingredients: Mix half a cup of vinegar with half a cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave: Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high for about five minutes. The solution should steam to soften the dirt inside the microwave.
- Allow to work: Then leave the bowl with the vinegar solution in the microwave for a few minutes to allow the steam to work.
- Clean the inside of the microwave: Open the microwave and wipe the interior with a sponge or soft cloth. The vinegar vapor helps to dissolve grease and dried food residue.
- Cleaning the turntable: Don't forget to remove the turntable and clean it separately. Natural cleaning concentrates like those from Emma Grün are ideal for this. Simply spray on and wipe with a damp cloth.
Clean your microwave with natural cleaning concentrates
You can also clean your microwave with natural cleaning concentrates. Products like the cleaning concentrates from Emma Grün contain essential oils and sugar surfactants and offer several advantages for environmentally friendly and efficient cleaning .
Essential oils are known for their natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties. They help fight bacteria and germs in your microwave . In addition , they leave a pleasant, natural scent that neutralizes unpleasant odors in your microwave . Whether lavender, lemon , grapefruit, garden herbs or eucalyptus - depending on the oil, you can benefit not only from a clean, but also from a fresh-smelling microwave.
Plant-based surfactants , particularly sugar surfactants, are another excellent option for microwave cleaning. They are biodegradable and therefore environmentally friendly . Sugar surfactants are mild, yet effective at removing grease and dirt . They create a gentle foam that thoroughly cleans the surfaces in your microwave without leaving behind any harmful residue, making them a perfect alternative to traditional cleaners .
The combination of essential oils and plant-based surfactants not only ensures that your microwave is thoroughly cleaned, but also helps protect your health and the environment. With Emma Grün's cleaning concentrates, you can keep your microwave and your entire household clean in a sustainable and effective way. Try it out!
Cleaning a stainless steel microwave: What you need to pay attention to
When cleaning stainless steel microwaves, special considerations must be made in order to protect the material and at the same time clean it effectively. The following points should be observed:
- Use suitable cleaning products: Avoid aggressive, chlorinated or abrasive cleaners. Instead, use mild cleaning products or special stainless steel cleaners . A mixture of water and a natural cleaner or a solution of water and vinegar also works well.
- Use soft cleaning cloths: Use a soft, clean cloth or microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the delicate stainless steel surface.
- Pay attention to the grain: When cleaning, you should always wipe in the direction of the grain of the stainless steel. This will minimize scratches and the surface will retain its uniform appearance .
- No steel wool or scouring pads: These can leave scratches on the stainless steel surface and should therefore be avoided.
- Drying after cleaning: To avoid water stains, you should dry the surface with a clean cloth after cleaning.
- Special stainless steel care: For additional protection, you can occasionally use a special stainless steel care product. This helps protect the surface and minimize fingerprints.
- Be careful with sharp objects: Avoid contact with sharp objects or rough surfaces. Stainless steel is sensitive and can be scratched easily.
- Regular cleaning: Keep the stainless steel surfaces clean. Natural cleaning concentrates are ideal for this, as they make fingerprints and stains disappear in no time.
- Gently treat the door seal: Clean the microwave door seal with a soft, damp cloth. Do not apply too much pressure.
Important: A clean microwave does not always prevent unpleasant smells. But what can we do about the smell that sometimes builds up in our microwave?
How can you remove unpleasant smells from the microwave?
There are various techniques and solutions to remove unpleasant odors from your microwave and prevent future odors from forming. We would like to introduce you to the most effective methods and how to implement them:
- Lemon Steam Cleaning: Fill a glass bowl with water and add the juice of one lemon. Place it in the microwave and heat until the water boils and creates steam. The steam along with the lemon juice will help neutralize odors and clean the microwave .
- Vinegar solution: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bowl. Heat this mixture in the microwave and let it sit for a few minutes. Vinegar is an excellent odor neutralizer .
- Baking soda: Place an open bowl of baking soda in the microwave and leave it overnight. Baking soda absorbs unpleasant odors .
- Coffee grounds: Place a bowl of fresh or used coffee grounds in the microwave. The coffee grounds can also absorb odors and leave behind a fresh coffee scent.
- Activated carbon: Activated carbon filters absorb odors effectively. Place a small filter or bowl of activated carbon in the microwave overnight.
If you have managed to remove all of the odors, it is of course a good idea to prevent them from reoccurring. There are a few simple measures that can be easily implemented.
Bad smells in the microwave: 5 tips as a preventive measure
- Regular cleaning: Clean your microwave regularly to remove food particles and splatters that can cause odors.
- Covering food: Use microwave covers or suitable dishes to prevent food from splattering.
- Immediately remove spilled food: If something spills in the microwave, clean it immediately to prevent odors from forming.
- Ventilation: Leave the microwave door open after use to allow air to circulate and moisture to escape.
- Odor absorber: Regularly place an odor absorber such as baking soda or activated charcoal in the microwave to continuously neutralize odors.
By combining these odor removal methods, you can ensure that your microwave stays not only clean but also odor-free. Try it out!
Conclusion: Cleaning microwaves
Regular cleaning of your microwave is essential for the hygiene and longevity of the appliance. With simple, natural household remedies such as vinegar, lemon juice, dishwashing liquid or natural all-purpose cleaners, you can effectively combat food residue, bacteria and unpleasant odors. These methods are not only environmentally friendly, but also inexpensive and gentle on the microwave. Regular use of these simple cleaning techniques ensures that your microwave always remains a clean and hygienic part of your kitchen.
FAQ: Questions & Answers
Can I clean the microwave with household cleaners?
When it comes to cleaning your microwave, natural household remedies such as vinegar or citric acid as well as natural all-purpose cleaners are a better alternative to conventional household cleaners. They are more environmentally friendly and safer, especially when food comes into contact with the cleaned surface.
How do I remove stubborn stains from the microwave?
You can remove stubborn stains by heating a mixture of vinegar or lemon juice with water. The steam softens the stains and all dirt can then be easily wiped off with a sponge or cloth.
Can I clean the outside of my microwave with the same products?
Yes, the outside of the microwave can be cleaned using the same natural cleaning products as the inside. Just be careful not to get any liquid into the vents or electronic controls.
How do I clean the turntable of my microwave?
The turntable can usually be cleaned in the dishwasher or washed by hand with detergent and water.
Are there any materials or cleaning products I should avoid when cleaning my microwave?
Avoid abrasive sponges and harsh chemical cleaners as these can damage the microwave surfaces.
Sources
- https://www.oekotest.de/bauen-wohnen/Mikrowelle-reinigen-Drei-Tipps-die-Sie-kennen-sollten_13245_1.html
- https://www.everdrop.de/the-good-mag/guide/mikrowelle-reinigen#:~:text=Zitronensäure%20gegen%20Schmutz%20und%20Gerüche,-Auch%20Zitronensäure%20hat&text=Gib%20die%20bowl%20in%20die,Befüf%20mit%20 einem%20Splash%20of%20detergent.
- https://utopia.de/ratgeber/mikrowelle-reinigen-mit-hausmitteln-das-musst-du-beachten/
- https://www.bringmeister.de/erlebniswelten/lifehacks/mikrowelle-reinigen
- https://www.haus.de/leben/mikrowelle-reinigen-34772