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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 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 help get burnt smells out of a microwave.
Why does my microwave smell burnt (and can I fix it)?
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.
Learning tips to prevent odors from accumulating in the microwave can help make cleaning the appliance easier in the long run. To that end, keep a close eye when microwaving dry or starchy items like bread or popcorn, as they may be more likely to burn and leave a smell.
A dirty grease filter can also harbor odors, making them difficult to remove with a simple wipedown. The grease filter in your over-the-range microwave should be cleaned once a month to help keep grease and debris from entering the vent system and to help the exhaust fan circulate clean air. If it’s dirty, the fan can’t do its job well. Your microwave’s charcoal filter, which helps reduce cooking odors, can’t be cleaned and should be replaced every six months.
Along with cleaning and replacing your microwave’s filters, it’s important to regularly clean the inside of your microwave. Routine cleaning can help prevent buildup that can possibly contribute to lingering burnt odors.
How to remove burnt smells and deodorize a microwave
From food splatters that may flake onto your next meal to stains on the appliance that may leave your kitchen looking untidy, a dirty microwave can quickly turn into a nuisance. Fortunately, common household ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and more may help you easily clean your microwave inside and out.
Use the following steps to help 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)
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 help neutralize the odor.
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.
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 so the appliance can air dry for at least two hours.
4. Deodorize overnight
If the burnt smell remains after the previous steps, you can try using baking soda or coffee grounds to help absorb odors from your microwave’s interior overnight. Here’s how to do it:
Place an open box of baking soda or one cup of dry coffee grounds inside your microwave before you go to sleep, shut the door, and then remove it in the morning.
Remind family members not to use the microwave while it is being deodorized.
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1 When compared to deep frying
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Tips to help prevent microwave smells
You can help 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.
Consider replacing your microwave’s charcoal filter if the burnt smell lingers after cleaning and deodorizing.
Pantry staples like lemon juice, vinegar and coffee grounds can be used to help clean and deodorize the inside of your microwave. (see above)
Wipe away any spills and splatters as soon as they appear to help prevent them from becoming burnt on.
Always use microwave-safe dishware when cooking inside your microwave.
After cleaning the microwave, leave the door open for two to three hours to help it air out.
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Maximize your cooking options
From built-in and over-the-range to countertop microwaves, KitchenAid brand has microwaves that complement your kitchen and cooking style
Can you clean a microwave with bleach?
Bleach should not be used to clean a microwave. Instead, use gentle methods like steam cleaning with water and vinegar or lemon juice, followed by wiping with mild soap and water.
Explore KitchenAid®microwaves
KitchenAid® microwaves offer convenience and versatility to give you more room to create in your kitchen. Browse select KitchenAid® countertop, built-in or over-the-range models with features that open the door to creative possibilities, like Air Fry Mode, Convection Cooking or Sensor Cooking Functions. Select models, like this over-the-range microwave by KitchenAid brand, combine multiple features, including Air Fry Mode and Convection Cooking so you can get several of your cooking needs met in one place.
