HOW TO GET BURNT SMELLS OUT OF A MICROWAVE
Your microwave can help you defrost chicken, steam fresh produce or soften butter when your stovetop is filled with other dishes, but sometimes mishaps occur, and you may get stuck with a burnt smell inside the appliance. Luckily, cleaning the smell out of your microwave is a simple process. Use this article to learn how to get burnt smells out of a microwave.
CAN YOU REMOVE BURNT SMELLS FROM A MICROWAVE?
Yes, you can typically remove burnt smells from a microwave. Whether it’s burnt popcorn or scorched soup, a burnt smell inside your microwave can be unpleasant—but not necessarily permanent.
HOW TO REMOVE BURNT SMELLS AND DEODORIZE A MICROWAVE
Use the following steps to deodorize and clean your microwave so you can get back to making your favorite creations.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
Microwave-safe bowl
Non-abrasive sponge
Clean microfiber towels
Dish soap
Lemon juice or vinegar (optional)
STEP 1: STEAM WATER IN THE MICROWAVE
Steam can help soften odor-causing grime stuck to the sides, top and bottom of your microwave so you can more easily wipe it away. You can begin steam cleaning your microwave by heating one cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl for three to four minutes.
If you’re dealing with more potent smells like burnt plastic or fish, try adding one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to the water before heating to neutralize the odor.
STEP 2: CLEAN THE INTERIOR
Once soils have been softened by steam, dip a non-abrasive sponge or clean cloth in water with dish soap, then wipe down the interior of the microwave. Remove the turntable and clean it in the sink or dishwasher. Consult your product manual to ensure the turntable is dishwasher-safe.
STEP 3: RINSE AND DRY
Rinse away soap residue with a damp cloth, then soak up any remaining water with a clean, dry cloth. Leave the microwave door open to air dry for at least two hours.
STEP 4: DEODORIZE OVERNIGHT
If the burnt smell remains after the previous steps, you may need to deodorize the microwave interior overnight. Place an open box of baking soda or one cup of dry coffee grounds inside your microwave before you go to sleep, then remove it in the morning. Be sure to remind family members not to use the microwave while it is being deodorized.
TIPS FOR PREVENTING AND REMOVING ODORS FROM A MICROWAVE
You can keep the inside of your microwave smelling fresh with the following prevention and cleaning tips:
Protect the inside of your microwave during cleaning by using non-abrasive cloths and sponges.
Keep a close eye when microwaving dry or starchy items like bread or popcorn, as they are more likely to burn and leave a smell.
Consider replacing your microwave’s charcoal filter if the burnt smell lingers after cleaning and deodorizing.
Pantry staples like lemon juice, vinegar, vanilla extract and coffee grounds can be used to help deodorize the inside of your microwave.
Wipe away any spills and splatters as soon as they appear to prevent them from becoming burnt on.
Always use microwave-safe dishware when cooking inside your microwave.
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