How to neutralise smells in your microwave

How to banish burnt smells in the microwave

The smell of overcooked food is unpleasant and, without proper cleaning, can build-up over time. Not only can these burnt smells ruin your home’s scent, they can also ruin your appetite when heating up meals. Luckily, there’s a way to tackle this:

1. Start by unplugging your microwave and take off any removable parts, such as the turntable and microwave-safe plate.
2. Mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl.
3. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for 5 minutes.
4. The steam created will help loosen any stuck-on food particles and eliminate the burnt smell.
5. After 5 minutes, carefully remove the bowl and wipe down the interior of the microwave with a damp cloth.
6. Don't forget to clean the removable parts as well!(1)

Preventing bad odours in the kitchen

Now that you’ve mastered microwave odour removal, you’re going to want to keep the rest of your kitchen clean and smell-free—especially if you’ve got guests! Luckily, we have some top tips for you if you’re thinking about how to get rid of smells in the kitchen.

One tip is to put an Air Wick Active Automatic Spray in your kitchen. This can help neutralise any lingering odour from your microwave and any other smells floating around the room. You can also set the intensity of scent, depending on your preferences.

How to clean and neutralise odours from a smelly microwave

When it comes to neutralising general odours, there are several other effective techniques you can try, using items you probably already have in your fridge or kitchen cupboards.

Give lemon a try

1. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and add a few slices of lemon or a few tablespoons of lemon juice.
2. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for 3 minutes. The steam created will help loosen any stuck-on food particles and neutralise the odours.
3. After 3 minutes, carefully remove the bowl and wipe down the interior of the microwave with a damp cloth or sponge. Pay extra attention to any stubborn stains or spills.
4. Give the exterior of the microwave a good wipe-down as well.(2)

Add a dusting of baking soda

Baking soda is a great at-home remedy because its properties help absorb any unpleasant odours, leaving your smelly microwave clean and fresh. Simply place a bowl of water with a few tablespoons of baking soda in the microwave and heat it for 2 minutes.(3)

Banish smells using vinegar

If you’d prefer to use this method to clean your smelly microwave, fill a microwave-safe bowl with equal parts vinegar and water and heat it for 5 minutes. The vinegar will help banish any lingering smells—but make sure to leave the microwave door open afterwards so no vinegar smell remains.(4)

Use coffee grounds

If coffee grounds are more convenient, simply place a bowl of the contents in the microwave and leave it overnight. The coffee grounds will absorb any odours, leaving your microwave smelling like a fresh brew.(5)

Methods to keep your microwave smelling fresh

There are a few things you can do to prevent bad smells coming from your microwave. Try to follow these steps whenever you use your microwave:

1. Always cover your food when heating it in the microwave to prevent any splatters or spills. This will help reduce the chances of any lingering smells.(6)
2. Clean your microwave regularly. Simply wipe down the interior with a damp cloth or sponge after each use to remove any food residue.(7)
3. Avoid using strong-smelling foods like garlic or onions in the microwave, as these can leave behind unpleasant odours.