Introduction
Having a microwave that emits a persistent burnt smell can be quite unpleasant. Luckily, there’s a simple and natural way to refresh your appliance without relying on harsh chemicals. This method not only neutralizes the odor but also leaves your microwave smelling fresh and clean, making it ready for your next use.
Supplies Needed
- 2-3 Paper Towels
- 5-10 drops of Lemon Essential Oil (available on Amazon or local stores)
- Clean Water
Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Burnt Smell
Step 1: Carefully remove any burnt remnants from the microwave interior and give it a thorough cleaning to eliminate loose debris.
Step 2: Take the paper towels and dampen them slightly—ensure they are moist but not dripping with water. This prevents excess moisture inside your microwave during the process.
Step 3: Add about 5 to 10 drops of lemon essential oil onto the damp paper towels. Lemon oil’s natural citrus scent is excellent for deodorizing and freshening up appliances.
Step 4: Place the prepared paper towels inside the microwave and run it on high power for approximately 1.5 to 2 minutes. Keep an eye on the microwave to prevent the towels from drying out completely.
Pro Tip: If you notice the paper towels drying quickly, pause the microwave briefly to add a few more drops of lemon oil or re-wet the towels to maintain steam and aroma production.
Step 5: Once the microwave has finished, leave the door closed for an additional 2 minutes. This allows the steam to settle and the lemon scent to permeate, effectively replacing the burnt odor with a fresh citrus fragrance.
Step 6: Carefully open the microwave door and use the paper towels to wipe down the interior surfaces thoroughly. This step ensures the removal of residual odors and lingering grime.
If the burnt smell persists, repeat the process by reapplying more water and lemon oil to the paper towels, then microwave again for a few minutes until the odor dissipates.
Additional Tips for a Fresher Microwave
If you lack essential oils, lemon juice can be a suitable alternative. Simply soak the paper towels in lemon juice instead, but note that you might need to repeat the process more than once for effective results. An extra tip is to place an open box of baking soda inside the microwave overnight to absorb lingering odors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use a microwave that smells burnt?
Generally, yes—if the smell originates from food residue or minor spills; cleaning usually suffices. However, if the odor is due to electrical issues or burning components, professional inspection and repair are necessary before continued use.
Does burning food in the microwave ruin it?
Not necessarily. Most appliances can be restored to optimal condition with proper cleaning and deodorizing. Just ensure you perform a thorough wipe-down after any burning incident.
Can burning food in the microwave produce carbon monoxide?
Microwaving burnt food typically does not produce carbon monoxide, as this gas results from the incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels like gas stoves or heaters. Nonetheless, burnt food can release smoke and harmful fumes, so ventilate the area and clean promptly to maintain safety.
More Home Appliance Cleaning Tips
- How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances Effectively
- Natural Methods for Cleaning Oven Glass
- Quick and Easy Oven Cleaning Techniques
- Maintaining Your Keurig for Optimal Performance
- Simple Tips to Make Your Dishwasher Run Like New Again