I have a bit of a pet peeve: dirty microwaves. To me, there is nothing worse than opening up the door of the microwave only to find food splatters everywhere and an odour of yesterday's lunch. Unfortunately, this unhappy event doesn't only happen at the workplace communal oven or the cafeteria's self-serve station, but alas, in the homes of friends and family too. I think my aversion became more acute that one visit to granny's house when I opened the microwave to the over-powering stench of old salmon. Ugg! I'm not a fan of fish at the best of times but once exploded on the oven walls and left to fester for a week or two...not good.
In defense of my obsession, according to the user's manual of my microwave, "it is important to keep the oven clean and dry. Food residue and condensation may cause rusting or arcing and damage to the oven. After use, wipe dry all surfaces". So not only is a sanitary practice to clean out your microwave, it will prolong the life of your oven. I laugh when I see advertising for microwave "bomb" cleaners that are marketed as an essential tool necessary to clean your microwave. You don't need to spend $5 bucks a shot for this job. To clean the inside of the oven, simply wipe with a damp cloth after each use. Mild dish detergent may be used if needed. If things are really bad, just heat a microwave-safe bowl filled with water and some cut lemon on high for a minute or two and then let it sit in there to steam away any dried-on residue. Then just wipe clean. The glass tray can be removed and washed in warm, soapy water or even in the dishwasher (but I'm sure this is over-kill in most cases). Outside surfaces can be wiped (again) with a damp cloth and any steam accumulation on the inside of the oven door can be removed with a soft, dry cloth. It's easy and quick if you do it each time.
Taking care of your appliances and respecting any work areas where food is prepared will help keep you and your appliances in good working order for many years to come!
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