Microwave Pan Cleaning: Quick And Easy Tips

Cleaning a microwave is a simple task that can be done in a few easy steps. It is important to do so regularly to prevent the build-up of food, dirt, and grease, which can result in bacteria growth and even cause a fire. The good news is that you probably already have the necessary cleaning products in your pantry, such as vinegar, lemon juice, or baking soda. In addition to these natural ingredients, you will also need a few other household items, such as a microwave-safe bowl, a soft cloth or sponge, and some dish soap. With these tools and a bit of elbow grease, you can easily and effectively clean your microwave pan, leaving it sparkling and odour-free.

Vinegar and lemon juice methods

Vinegar and lemon juice are effective cleaning agents for your microwave. They can eliminate stains, grease, and odours, and are a natural alternative to harsh chemicals. Here is a detailed guide on how to clean your microwave using these ingredients:

Vinegar and Lemon Juice Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution:

Start by pouring 1 cup of water into a microwave-safe bowl. You can use a bowl or a measuring cup. Then, add 1 cup of white vinegar to the water. The combination of vinegar and water creates an effective base for your cleaning solution.

Next, add the lemon juice. Squeeze 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice into the mixture. You can also use lime or orange juice as alternatives. The citrus juice enhances the cleaning power of the solution and adds a pleasant scent.

Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 2: Steam the Microwave:

Place the bowl containing the cleaning solution into the centre of your microwave. Turn on the microwave to high power and heat the solution for 3 to 5 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on the severity of the stains and the strength of your microwave.

During this step, the liquid will come to a boil, creating steam. The steam is crucial as it helps to loosen stubborn stains, grease, and food particles, making them easier to wipe away.

Step 3: Allow the Solution to Work:

Once the microwave turns off, or after heating for the desired time, keep the door closed and allow the solution to sit inside for an additional 5 minutes. This step is important because it gives the steam time to cool down and create condensation. The condensation makes cleaning easier and also allows the solution to cool down for safe handling.

Step 4: Wipe Down the Microwave Interior:

After 5 minutes, open the microwave door and carefully remove the bowl. Set it aside, as you may need it later. Now, take a clean cloth, a paper towel, or a sponge, and start wiping down the interior of the microwave. Focus on the ceiling, sides, and back of the microwave.

If you encounter stubborn stains that won't wipe away easily, dip your cloth or sponge into the bowl of cleaning solution and gently scrub the area. You can also sprinkle some baking soda directly onto the stain and scrub with a cloth dampened with the solution.

Step 5: Clean the Turntable and Exterior:

Remove the turntable and wipe it down with a separate cloth or sponge dipped in the cleaning solution. This ensures that all parts of your microwave are thoroughly cleaned.

Finally, wipe down the exterior of the microwave, including the door and control panel. Use a clean, damp cloth for this step, and be careful not to get the controls too wet.

Cleaning the microwave filter

Cleaning a Charcoal Filter

Charcoal filters cannot be cleaned and should be replaced every six months, or every three months if you cook frequently. If you rarely use your microwave, you may be able to replace the filter every seven to eight months. To replace the filter, follow these steps:

• Disconnect your microwave's power.
• Remove the vent panel by unscrewing the screws holding it in place.
• Gently remove the old charcoal filter.
• Insert a new charcoal filter, ensuring it is secure and properly positioned.
• Reattach the vent panel using the original screws.

Cleaning a Grease Filter

Grease filters should be cleaned at least every three months, or more frequently if you cook often. To clean a grease filter, follow these steps:

• Unplug your microwave.
• Locate the grease filter, which is usually underneath the microwave. It is a metal mesh rectangle or square with a small tab.
• Remove the grease filter by pushing it inward and sliding it out using the tab. You may want to wear gloves for this step.
• Soak the grease filter in hot water and dish soap for at least 10 minutes. You can use a sink or a deep container for this step, and add 1/4 cup of baking soda if the filter is particularly dirty.
• Lightly scrub the filter with an old toothbrush or a coarse dish sponge to remove any stuck-on grease. Be careful not to scrub too hard to avoid bending the filter.
• Rinse the filter with clean water and pat dry with paper towels or let it air dry.
• Once the filter is completely dry, place it back into the housing slot by gently pushing it inward and sliding it forward using the tab.

Removing tough stains with baking soda

Baking soda is a mild abrasive, making it an effective, natural cleaning agent for microwaves and microwave pans. It is alkaline, and when it reacts with mild acids like vinegar or lemon juice, it becomes a foaming cleaner with more power to remove stains and burnt-on food.

To clean a microwave pan with baking soda, start by sprinkling a liberal amount of baking soda over the pan. Then, add water to create a thin paste. You can let this mixture sit for a few minutes or a few hours, depending on the severity of the stains. For tougher stains, you can also try boiling a solution of baking soda and water in the pan, scrubbing the pan as the water evaporates.

Once the paste has had time to work, use a non-scratch sponge or scrubber to wipe away the paste and, with it, the food residue. Rinse the pan and, if necessary, repeat the process.

Baking soda can also be used to clean the inside of a microwave. Simply mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with water in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 5 minutes. Allow the dish to cool, then wipe down the interior of the microwave with a sponge or soft cloth.

Baking soda is a versatile, inexpensive, and non-toxic cleaning agent that can be used on a variety of materials, including non-stick, stainless steel, ceramic, and cast iron.

Using commercial cleaners

Step 1: Select the Right Products

Choose a professional-grade microwave cleaner and disinfectant designed for commercial use. Look for products such as Suma Bac D10, Oxivir Plus, or Sure Cleaner & Disinfectant. These products are ideal for use in catering, healthcare, and other industries where food preparation is involved.

Step 2: Prepare the Area

Ensure the area is well-ventilated, and always wear gloves when handling cleaning products. Make sure food preparation is not taking place nearby. Turn off the microwave and unplug it from the power source.

Step 3: Remove Loose Debris

Start by removing any loose crumbs, dirt, or debris from the microwave. Use a dry cloth or brush to wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces.

Step 4: Remove Detachable Items

Take out all detachable items, such as the rotating tray. Wash these items separately in the sink using hot soapy water or place them in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe.

Step 5: Remove Stubborn Debris (if heavily soiled)

If there is any caked-on or stubborn debris, you can use the steam cleaning method to loosen it. Place a cup of water in the microwave, preferably with a teaspoon of white vinegar, and microwave it for about three minutes. Keep the door closed for 15 minutes to allow the steam to work. Then, open the door and remove the turntable.

Step 6: Wipe Down the Interior

Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down all surfaces, including the door, to remove the loosened debris. You may need to use a second cloth to remove any remaining residue or grease.

Step 7: Clean with a Commercial Cleaner & Disinfectant

Spray the commercial cleaner and disinfectant onto a cloth and wipe down all areas of the microwave interior. Leave the product on the surfaces for 30 seconds, and then wipe it off with a damp cloth or paper towel. Rinse and allow to air dry.

Step 8: Clean the Exterior

For the exterior, spray the commercial cleaner onto a cloth, wipe it over the surface, and leave it for about five minutes. Then, wipe it off and buff dry with a paper towel.

Step 9: Disinfect the Microwave

Use a professional-grade disinfectant, such as Suma Bac D10, to disinfect the interior and exterior of the microwave.

Step 10: Allow Drying Time

Give the microwave ample time to dry completely before using it again. This will ensure that any odours from the cleaning products dissipate, leaving your microwave fresh and ready for use.

Remember to always follow the instructions on the commercial cleaning products and wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and masks, if required.

Cleaning the microwave door

To clean the microwave door, you'll need to clean both the inside and outside of the door.

Inside of the microwave door:

• Use a scrubbing brush to scrub the inside of the microwave door. Loosen any dried-on food with the brush, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
• Pay special attention to the hinge areas of the door and get all crumbs and food debris from these areas.
• Mix together 1 cup of warm water and 1 tablespoon of baking soda to make a cleaning solution to remove stubborn stains. Saturate a paper towel with this solution and scrub at any stains that won't come off easily from the inside of the door. Rinse this solution off with plain water and dry with a dry paper towel.

Outside of the microwave door:

• Spray the outside of the door with a glass cleaner, including the handle. Wipe off the cleaner with paper towels until the outside of the microwave oven door is shining.
• Use a diluted window cleaning solution to wipe down your microwave, removing the carousel and scrubbing it separately. You can soak stubborn stains with the solution for a few minutes before wiping.
• Mix some dish soap and warm water (or the aforementioned baking soda paste to spot-treat nasty build-up) and apply it to the doors and outside of your microwave with a sponge. Then wipe clean with water and dry with a rag.
• If your microwave is stainless steel, you can use a pinch of rubbing alcohol to wipe away fingerprints.
• Mr. Clean Magic Eraser works well on microwave doors and the exterior, too.
• Hit greasy microwave door windows with a 50/50 mixture of white or apple cider vinegar and warm water. Rinse with a clean damp rag and wipe dry.

Frequently asked questions