Microwaves can get messy quite quickly and the longer you leave the mess, the harder it can become to get rid of the grime and dirt that has taken over. What many people would do is reach for the expensive cleaning products full of harsh chemicals in attempt to get the appliance squeaky clean. However, there is a much simpler and cheaper way to clean a microwave – most households already have the product needed, and if not, it can be bought for as little as 30p.
The hack revealed by Emma Christensen on home and food blog, The Kitchn involves the use of a small microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, a clean, dry dishtowel or cleaning rag and the main thing – a lemon, which can be bought in Tesco for just 30p.
To use the cleaning hack, the first thing you want to do is add around half a cup of water to your measuring cup or bowl. Then, slice the lemon in half, squeeze the juice into the water, and add the lemon halves to the cup or bowl with the water.
For the next step, you’ll want to pop the bowl with the lemon solution and lemons in the microwave on high power for about three minutes, giving it enough time to boil.
Let the bowl stand for around five minutes, making sure not to open the microwave door as this allows the trapped steam inside to “loosen” the food gunk.
Now, open the door and “carefully” remove the bowl with the lemons. “If your microwave has a turntable, lift it out and wipe it clean. Wipe the inside of the microwave clean starting with the ceiling and the sides,” she writes.
When it comes to getting rid of those “stubborn spots,” dip the corner of your dish towel in lemon water and scrub it away until the bits fall off.
While giving it a good wipe, make sure you don’t forget to clean the microwave door. If you took out the turntable,e pop it back in and you’re good to go. You’re now left with a nice and clean microwave that also smells fresh.
