Cleaning Challenge: The Microwave

Hi all!  The cleaning challenge for this week is your microwave.  I don't use mine much so I'm a bit lackadaisical about cleaning it right after making a mess. Then a few days later I'll open the door and notice how it looks like a food murdering B horror flick occurred inside.

Grab your multipurpose cleaner of choice and pop open the door.  Spray the glass tray and then move it to the sink to soak while you work.  If the plastic ring the tray rides on is removable, spray it and take it out as well.  Spray the ceiling, sides and bottom of the inside of the microwave as well as the inside of the door thoroughly and let set for 2-3 minutes.  If your microwave is especially dirty, soak a rag in a mixture of vinegar and water and nuke it in the microwave for 60 seconds before spraying the inside with cleaner.  The steam will help the food release from the walls.

While you're waiting for the inside to soak, spray some cleaner on your rag and wipe down the outside of the microwave.  Mine sits right next to the stove so I make sure to get all the grease cleaned off the outside.  Don't shy away from using your nail to press the cleaning rag in to cracks and crevices.  I've been known to bust out a qtip to clean tight spots.

Next, wipe down the inside.  Start with the ceiling first, you might want to crouch down so you can see it because they are usually contoured and you'll miss dirt if you try to do it by feel.  I usually fail at this and clean the walls first, then have to clean them again when I wipe off the ceiling.  Continue wiping down the walls then the floor and sweep any chunks in to your hand.  Do the same with the inside of the door.

If your microwave sits on the counter top, take a moment to move it and clean underneath.  Dirt is tricksie and loves to hide in dark places.  Wash and dry the glass plate and plastic ring.  Place them back in the microwave and you're done!  Back pats for everyone.

If you don't own a microwave, take a moment to feel smugly superior and then go clean another kitchen appliance.

So, did anyone do the Hump Day Half Hour of Housework this week?