Ensuring your kitchen appliances are thoroughly cleaned might seem like a chore, but it’s essential. However, you don’t have to rely on harsh chemicals to achieve that pristine look.
A cleaning guru has shared an effortless tip for removing stubborn grime from microwaves. Old food can build up over time and become difficult to remove, yet there’s no need for exhausting scrubbing.
All that’s required is some lemon essential oil to help eliminate grime and unwelcome food stains. Doug Rogers, president of Mr Appliance, told NBC News: “Add 15 drops of lemon essential oil into one and a half cups of water to a microwave-safe bowl, and microwave on high for five to ten minutes, allowing the steam to condense on inside walls/ceilings of your machine.
“Once complete, simply wipe away the softened food with a sponge.”
This tactic has been tried and endorsed by numerous cleaning enthusiasts on TikTok, reports the Express. Kloee Davies also praised this method; in a 2023 video she said: “Here is a simple hack to steam clean your microwave with ease, if you want you can also add a drop or two of lemon essential oil to the water to give it a fresh smell as well!”
Just fill a bowl halfway with water and the lemon oil, place it in the microwave, then heat to ensure the water steams for three minutes. After waiting a further minute, take a cloth and effortlessly wipe the grime away.
Another video from the user @lowcarbchic also showcased how to execute the cleaning hack, lauding it for being “non toxic”. She penned: “Only way to clean that microwave by non toxic chemicals. Essential lemon oil in a cup of water (8 drops. Put in microwave 5 mins, and then let it sit for 5 mins.) Happy Cleaning.”
It’s also feasible to achieve equally gleaming results by using water and lemon or lemon juice, microwaving it, and wiping away.