Accidentally burning food in your microwave can leave behind a strong, unpleasant odor that lingers long after the cooking mishap. How to remove burnt smell from microwave ovens is a common question, but the good news is that it’s easy to freshen up your microwave with a few simple tricks. In this post, we’ll share effective ways to eliminate burnt odors from your microwave and keep your kitchen smelling clean.
Why Does the Burnt Smell Linger in Microwaves?
When food burns in the microwave, the high heat causes particles to stick to the interior walls, leaving behind a smoky, burnt odor. Microwaves are enclosed spaces, which means the smell can become trapped, making it hard to remove. Fortunately, a little cleaning and deodorizing can get rid of the smell for good.
How to Remove Burnt Smell from Microwave Ovens: Step-by-Step
- Clean the Interior of the Microwave- Start by thoroughly cleaning the inside of the microwave. Removing burnt food particles is essential for eliminating the source of the odor.
What You’ll Need: Warm water, dish soap, a sponge or soft cloth.
Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water.
- Use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the interior, paying extra attention to any areas with food splatters or stains.
- For stubborn stains, let the soapy water sit on the area for a few minutes before scrubbing.
- Use Vinegar and Water- Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and an excellent solution for removing strong smells from your microwave.
What You’ll Need: White vinegar, water, a microwave-safe bowl. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Microwave the mixture on high for 5 minutes, allowing the steam to loosen any stuck-on food particles and absorb odors.
- After the time is up, leave the microwave door closed for an additional 5 minutes to let the steam work its magic.
- Carefully remove the bowl and wipe down the interior with a clean cloth.
- Try Baking Soda- Baking soda is another effective odor neutralizer. It works by absorbing the burnt smell and freshening up the microwave.
What You’ll Need: Baking soda, water, a microwave-safe bowl.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat the mixture in the microwave for 5 minutes and let it sit with the door closed for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Wipe down the inside of the microwave with a cloth after the time has passed.
- Use Lemon for a Fresh Scent
Lemon is a natural deodorizer that not only removes odors but also leaves a fresh, citrusy scent behind.
What You’ll Need: One lemon, water, a microwave-safe bowl.
- Slice a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a microwave-safe bowl of water. Place the lemon halves in the bowl as well.
- Microwave the mixture on high for 5 minutes, letting the lemon steam fill the microwave.
- Let the microwave sit for a few minutes after heating, then wipe down the interior.
- Air Out the Microwave
Once you’ve cleaned and deodorized your microwave, it’s a good idea to let it air out to ensure any lingering smell dissipates.
- Leave the microwave door open for a few hours or overnight to allow fresh air to circulate and eliminate any remaining odor.
Preventing Future Burnt Smells in Your Microwave
While it’s easy to remove burnt odors from your microwave, it’s always best to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Here are a few tips to avoid burnt food and lingering smells:
- Monitor Your Cooking: Pay attention to cooking times, especially when using high heat or reheating food. It’s easy to overcook food in a microwave, so start with shorter times and adjust as needed.
- Cover Your Food: Use a microwave-safe cover or plate to prevent food from splattering and leaving behind odors.
- Regular Cleaning: Make a habit of cleaning your microwave regularly to prevent food buildup and odors from developing.
Final Thoughts on How to Remove Burnt Smell from Microwave Ovens
Dealing with a burnt smell in your microwave can be frustrating, but with these simple methods, you can eliminate the odor and keep your microwave fresh. Whether you’re using vinegar, baking soda, or lemon, these natural remedies will have your microwave smelling clean in no time. At Appliances 4 Less, we offer a wide range of microwaves with modern features that make cooking and cleaning easier than ever. Visit us today to find the perfect microwave for your kitchen!
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