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We are all familiar with microwave crud. It clings to the ceiling, hunkers down by the vents, and often is more stubborn than most dirt.

In my experience cleaning some of the dirtiest of dirty apartments and homes, I have discovered a great trick that helps loosen crud for a quick wipe.

First, take out your glass plate, racks, or other removable items. A quick wash down in the sink is most effective and allows you more space to work with. It also ensures that you are able to tackle stubborn crud that likes to lurk in the cracks of your microwave.

Next, I like to spray down with a mixture of vinegar and water. Using harsh chemicals in your microwave could potentially be dangerous to your health (and cooking), therefore using something that is non-toxic is ideal. If the smell of vinegar offends your nose, simply squeeze in half a lemon. Lemon also can help to cut grease, so its worth using if you have one on hand.

I like to use a steady spray rather than a mist so that I can zero in on stains and food particles.

Once I have targeted the crud with my spray, I shut the door and turn the microwave on high for ten minutes.

While your microwave is cooking, you can take the time to wash the plate and racks. Often food crusts up (especially cheese) on your plate (or at least mine), so I like to soak in the sink with warm water and a little vinegar or dishwashing liquid. Then simply scrub with sponge and dry off. Set to the side.

Your microwave should be beeping. Its done!

If the high heat has done its magic, you should be ready to use a damp cloth on the inside of your microwave. The high heat typically loosens food mess for an easy wipe out. You might have to spray and scrub with your sponge a little bit, but generally you should be looking at a clean microwave interior.

For dirtier microwaves, you can also fill a microwave safe cup with water and place in the microwave at high heat until it boils. This functions to produce a steam which will help loosen stubborn goo and grime.

The exterior of the microwave usually consists of a quick wipe. For the handle, which inevitably gets dirty, I like to use my spray around the cracks and then scrub with an abrasive sponge. Baking soda can help for ground in dirt.

Vinegar and water mixture also doubles as a glass cleaner, so works perfect for the exterior of your microwave door. This is also best for the button portion of your microwave, where crud likes to build up.

For microwaves stationed above your range, you will usually have a vent cover that, without attention, can develop the texture of fly paper.

Unscrew from its mounting, and place into a sink of warm water. Allow to soak.

Using baking soda, scrub with abrasive sponge. This can be tricky, and a toothbrush with firm bristles will often come in handy.

Make sure to thoroughly scrub the top and bottom of the vent, as well, because the grease tends to capture dust.

If the dirt is still clinging to the corners of your vent, a screwdriver or other pointed implement covered with a rag should help to remove it.

Viola! You should have a brand-spanking new clean microwave.

Learn more about this author, E.D. Cameron.
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