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Microwave Cleaning

Topics:

  • How to clean a microwave oven
  • MD, MDD, MWD, MC, MS, MW24, and MWC24 microwave cleaning suggestions
  • How to remove sticker residue or odor from a microwave
  • Interior and exterior cleaning suggestions for a microwave

Answer:

Warm water and mild soap should remove most residue from a microwave oven.

Sticker Residue

  • In the rare instance that sticker residue is left behind after removing manufacturer stickers, use a citrus-based cleaner like Goo Gone or Goo Off.
  • Follow package directions.

Interior

  • Cleaning is easy because little heat is generated to the interior surfaces. Therefore, there is no baking and setting of spills or spatters.
  • To clean interior surfaces, wipe with a soft cloth and warm water.
  • Do not use abrasive or harsh cleaners or scouring pads.
  • For heavier soil, use baking soda or a mild soap. Rinse thoroughly with hot water.
  • Do not use chemical oven cleaners.
  • For drawer models, the drawer is not fully removable for cleaning. Clean while open.

Turntable (if equipped)

  • The turntable and turntable support can be removed for easy cleaning.
  • Wash turntable, turntable support, and accessory racks in water with a mild soap.
    • They are also dishwasher safe.
    • Use upper rack of dishwasher for the turntable support.
    • For stubborn stains, use a mild cleanser and a non-abrasive scouring sponge.
  • The turntable motor shaft is not sealed, so excess water or spills should not be allowed to stand in this area.

Drawer Guides

  • Remove the food crumbs from the drawer guides.
  • Wipe with a soft dry cloth in order to keep the Drawer Microwave opening and closing smoothly.

Odor Removal

  • Occasionally, a cooking odor may linger in the microwave oven.
  • To remove the odor, combine 1 cup (240 mL) water, grated peel and juice of one lemon, and several whole cloves in a 2-cup (480 mL) glass measuring cup.
  • Boil for several minutes using 100% power.
  • Leave in the oven until cool.
  • Wipe the interior with a soft cloth.

Exterior

  • Clean exterior surfaces of the microwave oven with mild soap and water. Rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
  • Diluted white vinegar can also be used to clean the microwave exterior. 
  • Do not use any type of household or abrasive cleaner.
  • Wipe the window on both sides with a soft damp cloth to remove any spills or spatters.
  • If there is a spill or stain in between the glass panes, it may require a new door.
  • Metal parts will be easier to maintain if wiped frequently with a soft damp cloth.
  • Avoid the use of spray and other harsh cleaners as they may stain, streak, or dull the door surface.
  • Do not remove the trim kit for cleaning, if installed.

Control Panel

  • Use a spray degreaser to remove fingerprints and food soil.
  • Spray on a cloth before wiping the control panel.
  • IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not spray cleaners directly on the control panel.

Stainless Steel Surfaces

  • The stainless steel trim should be wiped often with a soft damp cloth and polished with a soft dry cloth to maintain its beauty.
  • There are also a variety of products designed especially for cleaning and shining stainless steel.
  • We recommend that the cleaner be applied to a soft cloth and then carefully wiped over the stainless steel trim, rather than applied directly to it.
  • Follow package directions.

CAUTION:

  • Disconnect the power cord before cleaning, or leave the door open to inactivate the oven during cleaning.
  • The waveguide cover, found inside the oven interior, is made from mica, so it requires special care.
    • Keep the waveguide cover clean to make sure of good microwave performance.
    • Carefully wipe the surface of the cover with a soft damp cloth to remove any food spatters immediately after they occur.
    • Built-up spatters may overheat and cause smoke or possibly catch fire.
    • Do not remove the waveguide cover.
    • Refer to Waveguide Cover Replacement for more information.

Refer to the product Use and Care Guide for further information.

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