Try not to wait until it looks like something exploded in there.
For many, that area is the inside of the microwave.
Out of sight, out of mind, right?
Photo:Henadzi Pechan/Getty Images
But how often does that mean?
We asked experts to weigh in.
How Often Should You Clean Your Microwave?
Your microwave-cleaning schedule depends on how often you use it.
Is It Bad if You Dont Clean the Microwave Enough?
If youre someone who doesnt keep up with cleaning the microwave weekly or monthly, youre not alone.
You wouldnt cook using a dirty pot, so why are you zapping your coffee in a dirty microwave?
In other words, not cleaning your microwave regularly is pretty gross.
For Dana White, founder of A Slob Comes Clean, the ick factormayhave a silver lining.
Splatter guards and covers to the rescue!
But the most important cleaner issteam.
The steam will loosen everything up," she says.
“And the vinegar deodorizes your microwave so it will smell fresh.
Picosa and White recommend a similar strategy, but with lemon juice instead of vinegar.
If theres still gunk on the microwave walls after its steam bath, make a paste ofbaking sodaand water.
Use a sponge to spread and scrub the mixture over the tough spots, and they should come off.