How To Clean A Microwave With Baking Soda

We've all fallen victim to a food explosion in a microwave, but did you know it's simple to clean a microwave with baking soda? This is especially valuable if any spillages aren't cleaned up immediately. Once they get caked on, which happens easily if the microwave is used again and again, they become much harder to clean off.

Not only is caked-on food unsightly, but it isn't the most hygienic state of affairs in which to leave your microwave. It's just doing the best it can. And it needs your help. And now, you can provide that help, to clean your microwave, and keep it in the best possible condition for as long as possible.

How To Clean A Microwave With Baking Soda

There are really two methods to clean a microwave with baking soda. One involves creating a paste, while the other involves applying the baking soda directly to the microwave. We'll cover both options, so you can decide which one is most appropriate for you.

Read More: How To Clean A Kettle With Lemon

Use a Baking Soda Solution

For this method, you need a microwave-proof bowl. Add one cup of water and mix two tablespoons of baking soda.

Put the bowl into the microwave, and turn the microwave on for three to five minutes. As the solutions starts to heat up, the steam will start to soften and loosen any grease and food that is stuck on. As a bonus, baking soda helps to eliminate any bad smells as well.

Once the time has elapsed, leave the bowl to stand for ten to fifteen minutes. It's probably important to mention that it might still be hot, so be careful!

You can now use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the microwave, and wipe away most, if not all, of those stubborn stains.

Credit: Miele

Apply Baking Soda Directly

The second option is to apply baking soda directly into the microwave. For this method, start by removing the turntable and support ring from the microwave. Sprinkle baking soda over the bottom of the microwave.

Next, get a cloth or sponge and some hot water. And scrub. And keep scrubbing until the dirt is gone.

Finally, you'll want to remove any baking soda residue from the microwave before using it. So rinse your cloth, or wet a new one, and wipe the microwave down with hot water. Rinse and repeat until the baking soda has also gone.

Clean your turntable and support ring, put them back in the microwave, and you're done.

Read More: How To Clean A Dishwasher With Baking Soda

Whichever method you decide to use, you can repeat it until you are happy with the cleanliness of your microwave. Both methods can be highly effective, leaving you with a clean appliance. And as importantly, baking soda is a safe, non-chemical method. Which for many people, is a really important benefit.

How Often Should You Clean Your Microwave?

As always, the answer to this will depend on a few factors. If there is a food explosion, then try to clean that up immediately, to avoid food getting baked on. And if you use your microwave all the time, then you'll probably need to clean it more often than someone who only uses it once in a blue moon.

But as a general guide, cleaning your microwave every few weeks will probably be enough for most people. More frequently if you use the appliance heavily, or with lots of messy foods, and less often if you rarely use it.