I clean all kinds of random areas in the kitchen, but I have to admit that I have never thought to clean a microwave filter until a few years ago. In fact, I didn’t even know a microwave filter existed until a “clean microwave filter” message flashed on the screen of my current microwave.
I’m always up for a good challenge, so I did my research and decided to clean it. It was either that or just replace the filter!
Here’s what I found out:
Cleaning over-the-range microwave filters are easy. The challenging part is removing and reinstalling them!
GATHER YOUR SUPPLIES
• Dawn Platinum Power Clean OR Commercial Degreaser
• Cleaning Cloth
• Cooking Oil (optional)
Set a Timer
It really doesn’t matter how many minutes you worked. It matters how much work is accomplished in those minutes. Set YOUR time limit and get started!
CLEAN MICROWAVE FILTER
First things first. When dealing with any electric appliance, it’s always a good idea to disconnect the plug before you begin. I know you know this…but I gotta say it.
It’s also a good idea to read your microwave manual. All microwaves are different…and it’s always better to get specific cleaning advice from the manufacturer instead of the internet!
Now that we have that covered…
Most over-the-range microwaves have two sets of filters:
1. One set is below the vent cover (to catch all the grease from cooking on a stovetop).
2. One set is behind the vent cover (to catch anything that might go into the blower motor and damage it.
Remove the filters…
Normally, the filters underneath the oven have to pull tabs or rings, where you can pull it to the side, up or down, depending on the model. But you may need a screwdriver to get your filter off.
Now the cleaning part…
When you remove the bottom filters, you’ll probably notice how sticky they are because of the grease that has accumulated over time. The top filters probably won’t be as greasy as the bottom filters.
If you’ve been using Dawn Platinum Power Clean, squirt a little bit in a sink full of hot water. Let the filters soak for at least three minutes.
If you haven’t been using Dawn Platinum Power Clean, you can use regular dish soap for the top filter. But, you will probably need a strong, commercial degreaser for the dirtier, bottom filter.
After a few minutes, wash the filter off with running hot water and watch the grease come off.
After cleaning, set the filters out to sun dry and then reinstall.
A few things to note…
• Most filters are not dishwasher safe.
• Do not clean your filters with ammonia or corrosive cleaning agents such as lye-based oven cleaners.
• Make sure they are rinsed well and dried completely before reinstalling.
CLEAN ABOVE THE MICROWAVE (OR THE RANGE HOOD)
You may not have noticed, but grime can really build upon the very top of your microwave. If you don’t have an over the stove microwave, you probably have a range hood. Same situation.
Go look at it…it’s probably gross So let’s take care of that mess today.
To clean the upper portion of your microwave or your range hood, grab a damp cleaning cloth and suds it up with the Dawn Platinum Power Clean. Scrub and clean until the grime is removed.
If the grime doesn’t come off, pour a dab of cooking oil on a cleaning cloth. Rub the oil over the entire microwave and you should see the dirt come right off!
Wipe the surface once more with a clean cloth and you are done for the day!
Your assignment for today:
• Set your timer. Then work to clean the microwave filter and/or range hood!
• Continue working on Habit #2.
• Keep working on your Rainbow calendar.