How to Remove Burnt Odors in a Microwave

Avoid leaving your microwave unattended when cooking.

Many microwave ovens have cooking guidelines printed on the door, but that rarely stops people from occasionally undercooking, overcooking or burning foods inside. Microwave popcorn is often the culprit because it cooks so quickly and can easily burn if it stays in the oven too long. Fortunately, the smell of burnt food can be removed using a few items found in your pantry.

Things You'll Need

• One lemon, quartered, or the juice of one lemon
• Whole cloves
• Water
• 2-cup bowl

Instructions

1. Use a 2-cup, microwave-safe bowl to mix together 1 cup water with four to five whole cloves and either the lemon juice or cut lemon.

2. Place the mixture into the microwave and set it on "High" for at least two minutes or until the water is boiling.

3. Let the bowl sit in the microwave for 15 to 20 minutes or until it cools down.

4. Remove the bowl and discard the contents. Wipe the interior of the microwave with a clean sponge or paper towel and leave the door open for a while to allow air to circulate inside.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the label on microwave popcorn packages for cooking times. Some microwave popcorn labels advise consumers against using the popcorn setting on their microwaves.

• Avoid straying too far from the kitchen when you are using your microwave. Cooked food can become burned food in a matter of minutes.

References

• Good Housekeeping: How to Get Rid of Household Odors