How to Clean a Microwave With Natural Products

Cleaning even the dirtiest microwave is possible with natural products. Essential oils, hot water, vinegar and baking soda combine to create a powerful cleaning solution. For tougher jobs, borax can be used. Remove caked-on food, stains and dirt using this safe, easy and effective method to clean a microwave with natural products.

Things You'll Need

• Small glass or plastic bowl Lemon essential oil White vinegar Pot holder or kitchen towel Kitchen gloves Baking soda Sponge Borax Vinyl scrubber

Instructions

1. Fill a small glass or microwave-safe plastic bowl with hot tap water. Add 2-3 drops lemon essential oil and 1 tsp. white vinegar. Stir to combine.

2. Place the bowl in the microwave, and set the power to high. Microwave the water for 3-5 minutes to allow steam to build up inside. The steam will penetrate caked on food and grime, making it easier to wipe clean.

3. Remove the bowl from the microwave using a pot holder or kitchen towel. Be very careful, as the bowl and water will be extremely hot. Put on kitchen gloves to protect your hands from the hot water while cleaning.

4. Sprinkle a few teaspoons of baking soda around the inside of the microwave. Dip the sponge into the hot water. Scrub the baking soda with the wet sponge. This creates an abrasive solution that will easily clean the softened food from the inside of the microwave. Continue until all the caked-on food and stains are removed.

5. Add a teaspoon of borax with the baking soda for tough caked-on messes. Borax is more abrasive than baking soda and will make more difficult stains easier to remove. Use a vinyl scrubber, if necessary, for greater scouring action.

Tips & Warnings

• If lemon essential oil is not available, you can substitute real lemon juice. Use 2 tbsp. of fresh juice instead. This leaves a nice, fresh smell in the microwave, although it won't give you the antibacterial benefits of the lemon essential oil.

• Never use a metal scouring pad inside the microwave. Metal particles left behind can be dangerous and can cause serious damage to the machine.