How to Deodorize a Microwave

Clean a microwave with lemon juice

Microwaves are certainly a kitchen appliance that most families can't live without. Sometimes, though, the microwave is used so often that spills, splatters, and spurts of food cover the sides, top and bottom. Some of those foods are not only messy, but smelly, too. Fish is great in a microwave, but the smell after cooking is not pleasant. Microwave popcorn can also leave a burnt smell if overcooked. Here are some tips to clean and deodorize the microwave.

Things You'll Need

• Lemons
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Paper towels
• Cloth

Instructions

1. Slice a lemon and add 2 to 3 slices to a bowl of water. Place in the microwave and heat for 30 seconds. Wipe out the microwave with a paper towel or a cloth and you will have a nice smell. You can also use 1 cup of water and 1/3 cup of lemon juice. If you don't have lemons, try limes.

2. Put 1 cup of water and 1/4 cup of vinegar in a bowl. Put in the microwave for 3 to 5 minutes on high. You want the water to boil, so if there is any baked-on food, it will soften. For really stubborn smells, add some lemon juice to the water as well.

3. Use baking soda. Baking soda is great to put in the freezer and refrigerator to collect odors. It's also great to deodorize a microwave. To 1 cup of water, add 2 to 3 tsp. of baking soda. Put in the microwave on high for 3 to 5 minutes. If there is still a stubborn smell, try making a paste of warm water and baking soda. Scrub the inside and wipe clean.

4. Try vanilla for a nice smell. Add a few drops of vanilla extract into a bowl with1 cup of water and microwave for about 1 minute.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have lemons and want a citrus smell, try other citrus fruits.

• Don't use glass bowls to heat your water. The bowl will get too hot to handle.