This ‘zero effort’ vinegar hack is a total game-changer for cleaning your microwave

Spring is here, and it's the ideal time to clean our kitchens and appliances. But while having one of the best microwaves can offer the quick convenience you need to cook or reheat foods in no time, how often do you actually deep-clean your microwave?

I'll admit, the microwave is the one appliance I dread cleaning. Plus, the thought of having to scrub away caked-on grease and food splashes is enough to make me avoid it. That was until I came across this quick and simple hack that instantly loosens grime and dirt inside your microwave, making it sparkle and eliminating all the scrubbing.

What’s more, you’re bound to find this kitchen staple in your cupboard, and it’s far less toxic than commercial cleaners. Here’s why you should heat a bowl of vinegar in your microwave this spring.

A bowl of vinegar inside your microwave will do the trick

White vinegar is a versatile cleaning essential that's a total game-changer in our homes. Not only can it handle all sorts of stubborn grease and grime, but it can also clean your microwave without the elbow grease.

To instantly degrease your microwave, do the following:

• Mix two tablespoons of white vinegar with two cups of water in a microwaveable bowl.
• Heat this uncovered solution for about 5 minutes.
• Leave the door closed for 15 minutes to let the steam evaporate inside and loosen dirt and grease.

This simple trick will make cleaning hassle-free, allowing you to easily wipe away all the residue and dirt from the microwave's roof and sides, leaving it sparkling clean.

Why is vinegar so good at cleaning?

If you're looking for easy home cleaning solutions, you can't go wrong with white vinegar, and when paired with baking soda, these can make a lethal combo for tackling the toughest of chores. So why is white vinegar so good at cleaning?

This is all thanks to its acetic acid that will help to dissolve and break down grime, grease, and limescale on contact. Additionally, this is a popular choice due to its natural, non-toxic components, and it is generally safe to use around children and pets.

Since vinegar is so effective at removing hard water deposits, it comes in useful for cleaning other appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers — reaching limescale we didn’t even know was there.

Just bear in mind that there are some things you should never clean with white vinegar to avoid damaging delicate surfaces.

So if you want a no-fuss way of cleaning your grimy microwave, let the power of white vinegar do all the hard work for you.

Windex Vinegar Glass and Surface Cleaner Spray Bottle: $3 at Amazon

Alternatively, you can use this vinegar glass and surface cleaner spray to quickly tackle grease and grime. This can also be used for streak-free windows and glass.

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