A Quick Guide to Controlling Microwave Oven Odors
With repeated use microwaves can develop unpleasant odors
Nearly every home has a microwave. This appliance has various uses, like reheating or cooking meals. With repeated use, however, microwaves can develop unpleasant odors. If this oven still smells terrible even after a thorough cleaning, some fixes might rectify the situation.
Soap and water
The first line of defense against unpleasant microwave odor is soap and water. Wipe away any food still clinging to the microwave walls, and then heat a cup of water in the appliance. The steam produced should help loosen any food particles present in the microwave.
Wipe the inside of the microwave with a dishcloth dipped in soapy water. If the appliance is stainless steel, it would be best to follow the metal's grain. Once the interior is clean, dry it off with a clean cloth and leave the appliance open for a couple of hours. Doing so should help get rid of the smell.
Baking soda
If the odor lingers, it might be time to try something a little stronger. Baking soda may do the trick. Place an open box of the kitchen staple in the microwave and leave it there overnight. This product should be able to absorb the smell, and the appliance should be suitable to go in the morning.
Coffee
Coffee is an excellent natural deodorizer and could be just the fix needed to combat the unpleasant smell in the microwave. Put two spoonfuls of coffee in a mug and pour in some water. Place the mug in the microwave for about 10 minutes. To ensure that the coffee doesn't begin to boil, heat it for three minutes at a time until the designated time is up. The unpleasant odor should have dissipated, but if it hasn't, repeat the process until it's all gone.
Lemons
Lemons are great at fighting unpleasant odors. Another great benefit of using them in the microwave is that they also contain antimicrobial properties. Slice the lemon into wedges and squeeze the juice into a microwave-safe bowl. Add two cups of water and then heat the bowl in the appliance for about five minutes. Leave the bowl in the microwave overnight to absorb the smell for best results. The microwave should have a fresh, citrus scent come morning.
Berries
Berries not only have a pleasant scent, but they also have antibacterial properties. Freshen up the microwave by placing them in a bowl and heating it for around two minutes. After heating the bowl, leave it in the microwave for another 15 to 30 minutes to allow the smell of berries to expunge the foul odor.
A microwave technician can help eliminate the unwanted odor if all else fails. Doing so will also ensure that the appliance doesn't have any other issues.
Freedom Appliance of Tampa Bay has 13 years experience in professional repair and installation of all laundry and kitchen appliances and dryer duct cleaning. Call 813-302-7672 today!