Lemon and vinegar: Tackling microwave grime naturally

Microwave ovens are invaluable when it comes to saving time. They allow us to heat food quickly without waiting or needing perfect culinary skills. However, it is important to keep the appliance clean because the development of bacteria, mould, or other pathogens can be dangerous. There is a simple way to do this.

Ideally, a microwave should be cleaned after each use, but the daily rush often makes this impossible. Even tough stains will disappear if we use lemon, whose acid has antibacterial and antiseptic properties.

Lemons eliminate bacteria, mould, and rust. To effectively clean the microwave with lemons, follow these simple steps.

1. Cut the lemon into slices and remove the seeds.
2. Place the slices in a microwave-safe dish and add warm water.
3. Place the dish in the microwave and set the highest temperature for about 2 minutes. The steam from the lemon will circulate in the appliance, and a fresh scent will appear in the kitchen.
4. After the time is up, carefully remove the dish. The water should now be light yellow and very hot.
5. Wipe the inside of the microwave—the lemon steam will make this task easy and remove even stubborn dirt.

An additional advantage of this method is the removal of unpleasant odours. After such a "treatment," the microwave will have a refreshing lemon scent.

Vinegar can make cleaning the microwave much easier. Simply mix vinegar with water in equal proportions and then pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the interior of the microwave with this mixture and wipe with a paper towel or sponge.

Baking soda is also great for cleaning the microwave. Mix 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda with a bit of water to form a paste. Use this paste to clean the inside of the microwave in the evening and wipe it with water in the morning. Although this method takes more time, it yields equally good results.