A NEW cleaning hack has been unveiled that can transform a filthy microwave in just FIVE minutes.
The surprisingly simple trick uses an item most people will have in their kitchen cupboard.
Microwaves are a great way to prepare food – particularly for those in in a hurry – but over time they can become embedded with grease and leftovers.
Removing baked-in dirty stains can take up to 30 minutes of hard scrubbing.
Not fun …
And while there are certain things you should NEVER put in a microwave – from tin foil to boiled eggs – what is involved in this hack is not one of them.
Cleaning experts have revealed a genius hack to tackle even the most stubborn grime.
And it’s incredibly simple – and foolproof.
Simply pop a single unscented dishwasher tablet into a microwavable mug or cup of boiling water – then wait for steam to rise.
This will be used as your cleaning solution.
Don’t use bleach
One piece of advice worth keeping in mind at this point is not to use tablets that have bleach in them or strong fragrances that aren’t safe on food.
Before placing the cup into the microwave, the cleaning experts at Lottomart suggest removing the turntable from the appliance.
It is also a good time to give the microwave a quick manual clean by wiping off any excess food or spills.
Then, with steam coming from the mug, place it into the microwave for four to five minutes on medium power.
“This method is absolutely game-changing for microwave cleaning,” said a spokesperson for Lottomart.
“The dishwasher tablet is specifically formulated to break down grease and food residue.”
The mixture of the tablet and steam is the perfect way to clean a microwave, said the spokesperson.
“You’re essentially giving your microwave a deep clean from the inside out,” they added.
It’s important to note than when the timer goes off don’t open the door immediately.
Safety first
Wait another few minutes as this will allow the steam to penetrate even the most baked-in stains .
“Always wear gloves when handling the hot cleaning solution, and make sure to wipe down all surfaces thoroughly with clean water afterwards,” added the spokesperson.
Never put these in your microwave
Tin foil
This is the one most people already know about – which is a good thing because it can be very dangerous if microwaved.
Foil can heat up extremely quickly, causing dangerous sparks and even a fire, the pro noted.
Cardboard
Both cardboard and paper bags should be kept away from your microwave, Katy said, because they’re huge fire hazards.
Not only that, but some of the other materials within carboard can be dangerous as well.
Glues and waxes are often on cardboard and paper bags without people realising, and these shouldn’t be heated up.
“You want to remove any cleaning residue before using your microwave for food.”
If you don’t have any dishwasher tablets to hand – or would prefer not to use them – one trick is to place vinegar or lemon juice into the boiling water instead.
