For many households, the microwave is a much loved and much used go-to in the kitchen. But seeing so many dishes come and go, it often gets more grime build-up than you realise. Cleaning your oven may also seem like a somewhat daunting task that can always be put off for another week, but it may be a whole lot easier than you’d think.
Some harsh cleaners may be harmful to people with lung or skin conditions such as asthma or eczema. Luckily, when it comes to cleaning your oven and microwave, there are fast, affordable and natural ways to keep them spick and span.
How to clean your microwave naturally
To clean down the inside of your microwave you’ll need three simple ingredients:
- a cup of white vinegar
- a cup of warm water
- two tablespoons of lemon juice.
First, mix these ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl. Place this bowl in the centre of your microwave. Then, turn your microwave on high for two minutes. After this, your microwave should be filled with steam.
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the inside of your microwave.
For particularly tough spots, mix dishwashing soap, baking soda and warm water. Use it to wipe down the interior of the microwave. Let sit before wiping it away.
How to clean your oven naturally
Making your own DIY oven cleaner is easier and cheaper than you’d expect. All you need is:
- baking soda
- white vinegar
- a little dishwashing liquid
- warm water.
Start by pulling the trays and racks out of your oven. Leave these to soak in a sink of warm water and a dash of dishwashing liquid.
Then, scoop four tablespoons of baking soda into an empty spray bottle. Fill with warm water and shake before spraying onto the internal surfaces of the oven. If you don’t own a spray bottle you can mix the baking soda in a bowl and use a gloved hand and cloth to wipe it around the inside of the oven, taking care around the heating elements. Leave this to work for an hour.
Return to wipe out the oven with a cloth and warm water. If grime it still solidly stuck on, spray or wipe it down again with the baking soda mix and leave it for another hour. Using a spatula may make it easier to scrape away build-up. If grime is particularly persistent, wipe the oven out with a mixture of white vinegar and warm water. When combined, baking soda and vinegar work to break down grime and grease. Wipe out the oven with warm water after an hour.
For really tough spots, mix baking soda and water into a paste consistency and layer it over stains and areas of persistent grime. Leave this to work overnight in the oven.
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