Nuke the Mess!

As I’m sure you saw last week, Seeley has decided to take a bit of a break from blogging so she can focus on school.  It was either that, or she might soon find herself in a madhouse.  While she’s away, I’ve decided to create Tuesday’s Tips, Tricks, and Treats.  Basically, I’ll be posting tidbits I think you might find handy.  They may not always be cooking related, but they’ll always be kitchen related in some way.  Today’s tip is how to clean your dirty microwave quickly and easily, and with no chemicals. 

All you’ll need is 2 cups of hot water and a lemon. 

To be honest, I’m quite embarrassed to show a picture of my dirty microwave.  I don’t use it all that often, and when I do I’m slightly anal about making sure everything is covered.  Hubby on the other hand…  Yeah, I know, I about fainted when I saw how bad it was, but I’m putting my shame aside and baring all.  Consider it a sacrifice for the greater good. 

Now, cut your lemon in half and drop it into the hot water. 

Place that in the center of your microwave. 

Set it on high for 5 minutes. 

After it beeps, allow it to just sit for an additional 2 minutes or so.  When you open the door you’ll think I’ve completely conned you, and what a waste that was.  But it’s been doing work, trust me. 

Look what you can do with just a dry paper towel.  That is somehow really gross and really satisfying at the same time.

With just a quick wipe with the paper towel, you can get the majority of the gunk off. 

Now take your washcloth and dip it into the hot lemon water.  Be very careful.  The water was just boiling a few minutes ago and is still really hot.  Allow the rag to cool long enough so you can handle it, then use it to wipe down the entire microwave, including the turntable. 

Only a few minutes from start to finish and with hardly any effort invested, and your microwave will be sparkling clean, inside,

And out.

As an added bonus, you can cut the cooked lemon into pieces and put it down your garbage disposal. 

With it still running, pour the remaining hot, lemon water down, as well. 

Have any cleaning tips you’d like to see posted or questions?  Post in the comments below or contact us using our new form on the right hand side of the page.  No, your other right.  Over there -->