How to Improve Smells in Microwaves
If the inside of your microwave smells -- as microwaves often do from burnt or strong-flavored foods -- don't start looking for a replacement. It may take a few tries and methods to remove the old, pesky odors, but they should come out. After removing the smell completely, use a simple home remedy and wipe down the inside regularly to prevent your microwave from smelling like garlic, burnt popcorn or last week's dinner ever again. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Clean the microwave plate with hot water and dish soap or clean it in the dishwasher. Clean the inside of the microwave with soapy water as well. Rinse it with a clean moist rag when finished. If the smell remains or if some of the food is hard to remove, proceed to the next step.
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Fill a bowl with water and add 2 to 3 tbsp. of lemon juice or baking soda. Alternatively, add 1 tsp. of cinnamon, vanilla extract or lemon extract. Microwave on high for five minutes. Remove the bowl with caution after 10 to 15 minutes and wipe down the inside of the microwave with paper towels or a rag -- including the rubber door seal and vent area -- to remove any hard-to-remove foods and remaining odors.
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Clean the inside of the microwave if the smells remain with a cleaning solution made from 1/4 cup of liquid chlorine bleach, 1 quart of warm water and 2 tbsp. of dish detergent, according to Utah State University. Thoroughly rinse the cleaner with a clean, wet rag.
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Place a bowl of baking soda in the microwave when it's not in use to help keep it smelling clean and fresh all the time. Also, clean the microwave weekly with hot soapy water and always wipe away food splatters immediately. Clean the plate regularly, too. This step helps prevent bad odors.
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References
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