Microwave Sponge

Microwave Sponge for Cleaning

Cleaning the microwave can be a tough job. This is because of the way the microwave works and the way we tend to clean household items. With some simple techniques, we can make a simple job of cleaning even the most stained microwave interior.

The Problem

We tend to use microwave for a whole lot of food items. Sometimes we are just not sure of the quantity of food or liquid to be added to the vessel and other times we just cook it a minute too long.

In any case, the food may spill out of the vessel and sometimes explode within the microwave itself. This leaves the food particles stuck on the side and the high temperature inside the microwave just dries these food stuffs.

If it is not cleaned for a few days – given that we have particular days when we clean our homes – these food stuffs become too tough to clean.

The Solution

The best solution for getting rid of these stains is to soften them with steam and using a non-abrasive material to clean them away. A sponge is a great solution as it can clean as well as absorb any additional moisture in the microwave too.

There are many alternatives for such cleansing accessories. You can get commercial microwave sponge from the market that can clean your microwave properly and is tough enough for multiple usages too.

You can also use your regular household sponge to clean the microwave and disinfect the sponge at the same time.

Things to look for in a good Microwave Sponge

The non-abrasive aspect of the sponge is vital as you don’t want to leave your microwave all scratches from inside after the cleaning.

The other aspect is its durability. If you are reusing regular sponge it would not be a big factor as it is being used for many other functions.

But, if you decide to purchase a dedicated microwave sponge, you need to make sure that your specialized sponge is durable and can by used multiple times for cleaning your microwave.

Home-Made Solution

This is a popular solution that has been tried by many with varying results. All you need in this case is your regular kitchen sponge – regardless of whether it is brand new or stinky old.

The microwave is a great disinfectant so you can actually use this technique to sterilize your sponge too.

You need to soak the sponge completely in water and ensure that it is wet. You don’t want it dripping, but it must be thoroughly wet.

Place this in your stained microwave and heat for a couple of minutes. After that, let the setup rest as it is for about 5 minutes. Now open the door and clean the microwave interior with the same sponge. Beware that the sponge may still be too hot for you, so you may have to use your gloves to hold the sponge. Once cleaned, check you sponge, that repulsive odor must have vanished too!

Commercial Products

One of the common products you may find online are the Cadie Microwave Sponge and Jetz Scrubz. These are cellulose sponge that can be used for clean microwave and other microwave cookware. They are non abrasive and durable for multiple use.

However, these too would be most effective if used as soon as you finish microwaving. If you were to leave the food stuff in the microwave for a few days, steaming them with wet sponge is a more efficient technique.