Discover the ultimate solution to banishing that stubborn burnt smell from your microwave with this simple yet effective tip! This method ensures your appliance is left smelling fresh without the need for harsh chemicals. My teenager has a fondness for popcorn, often devouring 1-2 bags a day. Unfortunately, this enthusiasm sometimes leads to the occasional disaster—burnt popcorn. The scent of burnt popcorn can be quite off-putting, and the lingering odor is even worse! Thankfully, I’ve become quite proficient at eliminating that unpleasant smell for good!
What You’ll Need
- 2-3 Paper Towels
- 5-10 Drops of Lemon Essential Oil (available from various retailers, including Amazon)
- Water
The Easiest Way to Eliminate the Burnt Smell from Your Microwave
STEP 1: Start by removing any remnants of burnt popcorn from the microwave and give it a good clean. For a quick cleaning hack, you can use a damp cloth or sponge.
STEP 2: Take the paper towels and moisten them with water, ensuring they’re damp but not dripping wet.
STEP 3: Add about 5-10 drops of lemon essential oil onto the paper towels, allowing the fresh scent to permeate.
STEP 4: Place the prepared paper towels into the microwave and run it for approximately 1.5 to 2 minutes. Pro Tip: Check on it periodically to ensure the paper towels don’t dry out completely during the process.
STEP 5: Once the microwave has finished, let the paper towels sit inside for another minute or two. The steam will build up, infusing the appliance with the delightful aroma of lemon, counteracting the burnt smell.
STEP 6: After a few minutes, open the microwave door and take out the paper towels. Give the interior a thorough wipe down; this step should effectively eliminate any lingering odors. If the burnt smell persists, simply add more water and a few additional drops of lemon essential oil, then microwave for another minute or two.
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What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Essential Oils?
If you’re out of lemon essential oil, don’t worry! You can easily substitute with fresh lemon juice, following the same steps outlined above. Keep in mind that lemon juice may require a couple of applications due to its less potent nature compared to oils. Another great option is to place an open box of baking soda in the microwave after cleaning; simply close the door and let it sit overnight to absorb any odors. For a comprehensive clean, I also recommend using white vinegar before you start this process.
Common FAQs
Is it safe to use a microwave that smells burnt? It depends on the source of the odor. If it’s merely from burnt food and the appliance just needs cleaning, then yes, it’s safe to use—though it may not be pleasant. However, if the smell is due to an electrical issue, it’s best to have it assessed by a professional.
Is a microwave ruined after burning food? No, not at all! A thorough cleaning followed by our odor-eliminating trick will restore it to its former glory.
Can burning food in a microwave cause carbon monoxide? Typically, burning food in a microwave does not produce carbon monoxide. This gas is primarily generated from the incomplete combustion of fuels like natural gas or wood. While microwaves don’t burn fuel, burning food to the point of smoke or fire can release other harmful compounds, so it’s essential to monitor your food while microwaving.
I’m always impressed at how well this method works! With just a few minutes of your time, you can completely eliminate the burnt smell from your microwave.
More Appliance Cleaning Hacks and Tips
- How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances
- How to Clean Your Oven Glass Without Chemicals
- The Easiest Way to Clean the Oven
- Clean Your Keurig with Ease
- Simple Tips to Make Your Dishwasher Run Like New
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