How to Remove Stains in the Microwave

Cooked-on stains can be a real nuisance in the microwave. When left for too long, they become hard to remove. Over time, the stains become more stubborn and require some pre-cleaning steps to help loosen the stain before trying to remove it. If you have old, cooked-on stains in your microwave, try the following steps.

Loosen Tough Stains for Easier Removal

When stains sit in the microwave through days or even months of use, they permeate the surface and become very hard to remove. Here are some simple measures that can help release the stain for easier removal.

You Will Need:

• Microwaveable bowl
• Baking soda
• Lemon Juice
• Water

The Cleaning Process:

1. Fill the bowl with hot water.
2. Add either a few dashes of lemon juice or baking soda to the water. If neither of these items are available, you can try plain water as well.
3. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high for five minutes. If using plain water, heat until it is boiling. The steam from the water will help to soften the stain.
4. Remove the bowl and wipe down the interior with a clean cloth.
5. If stains persist on the walls, repeat the above steps or try using one of the methods below.

Removing Stubborn Microwave Stains

Often after removing the majority of a stain, you may still be left with yellowed areas inside on the walls. These require a different technique that’s quite simple.

You Will Need:

• Water
• Acetone nail polish remover
• Soft cloth, sponge or cotton balls
• Soap

The Cleaning Process:

1. Begin by removing as much of the stain as possible following the instructions above.
2. Wipe the yellow areas with the nail polish remover until the yellow stain is completely gone.
3. Wash the entire inside with soap and water to remove any traces of the nail polish remover.
4. Once the yellow stains are gone, this should eliminate any odor as well. If you still have odor issues, simply wipe down the walls with a water/vinegar solution.
5. Allow the interior to dry and it should be good as new!

Using Chemical Cleaners

Sometimes stubborn stains require a cleaner with more power. Here are some chemical cleaners that are readily available at your local store and have been found helpful by others.

• Mr. Clean Magic Erasers – These pretreated sponges have a reputation for cleaning just about anything. Simply wet the sponge and wipe the area clean.
• Kitchen and Bathroom CLR – This bathroom cleaner has also been found useful for removing all types of stains from hard surfaces. Be sure to thoroughly clean your microwave before using again to ensure that all traces of the chemicals have been removed.
• 409 – Spray this cleaner on and then allow it to work for about an hour before wiping off.

Additional Tips and Advice

• To freshen up your microwave, try soaking citrus peels in water and boiling the combination for 4 minutes. Leave the door closed for 12 hours.
• If an odor lingers inside of the microwave, you can also try boiling a couple of tablespoons of coffee with water in a coffee mug for two minutes.