Microwaves are a kitchen essential, but let’s be honest – how often do we give them a proper clean? If you’ve ever opened yours to find splattered sauces, stubborn build-up, or a lingering odour, you’re not alone! The good news? We’ve got all the best tips and tricks to get your microwave sparkling in no time. And that’s just the beginning, we’ve got plenty more kitchen cleaning hacks to keep your home feeling fresh.

If you’ve been following along, this might not be the first set of cleaning tips you’ve seen. Check out our top bathroom cleaning tips here or dive into our full guides on oven and washing machine cleaning. And if you love a good cleaning hack, don’t forget to sign up for our email newsletter to get the latest home cleaning tips sent straight to your inbox!

 

Step-by-Step Microwave Cleaning Guide

We begin with learning how to clean your microwave. Check out our cleaning tips and tricks below for refreshing your microwave:

What you’ll need:

• Microwave-safe bowl
• Lemon slices
• Microfibre cloth or sponge
• Baking soda
• Soft bristled brush

Step 1: Loosen stubborn grime

• Fill a microwave-safe bowl with 1 cup of water.
• Add a few slices of lemon. The natural acidity of the lemon helps to dissolve food splatters and grease. Their natural scent is refreshing and helps to neutralise any lingering food smells inside your microwave, a classic cleaning hack!
• Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high for 3-5 minutes until the liquid steams up.
• Let it sit for a couple of minutes.

Step 2: Wipe away the grime

• Carefully remove the bowl, remember it may be hot!
• Use a microfibre cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior.

Step 3: Tackle tough stains

• If any spots remain, make a paste with baking soda and water.
• Apply the paste and leave to sit for 5 minutes. Gently scrub before wiping clean.

Pro tip: A steam cleaner is an alternative option to break down grease and build-up without the need for any chemicals.

Step 4: Clean the turntable

• Remove the microwave turntable and wash it separately with warm, soapy water.
• Ensure you dry it thoroughly before placing it back inside.

 

Keep your extractor fan filters clean with these tips

Next up we are going to run through how to clean your extractor fan filters. Don’t worry, it’s simple and only requires a few steps! We recommend a handheld steam cleaner for the most efficient clean, but if you don’t have one – we’ve got another other easy solution too:

Method 1: The steam clean

• Start by removing the filters from your extractor fan and placing them in an empty sink or washing up bowl.
• Using the round brush attachment on your steam cleaner, scrub the filters vertically, making sure the steam reaches both sides for a deep clean.
• Once the grease has loosened, wipe away any residue with a microfibre cloth.
• Finally, allow the filters to dry completely before putting them back in place.

Method 2: The traditional clean

• Remove the filters from your extractor fan and place them in a sink or washing-up bowl filled with hot, soapy water.
• You can use dishwashing liquid or any suitable cleaning product to help break down built-up grease effectively.
• Let the filters soak for 15–20 minutes to loosen stubborn grime. Then, gently scrub both sides with a soft brush or sponge to remove any remaining residue. Be sure to avoid abrasive materials, as they can damage the filter’s surface.
• Once clean, rinse the filters thoroughly with warm water to remove any leftover cleaning product. Pat them dry with a microfibre cloth, then leave them to air dry completely before refitting. Ensuring they are fully dry is essential to prevent trapped moisture, which could lead to mould or mildew build-up inside your extractor fan.

 

How to Clean an Induction Hob

Up next we have our top tips on how to clean an induction hob. Follow these simple steps for a sparkling streak-free finish:

Step 1: Let the hob cool down

Before cleaning, always ensure that your hob is completely cool. This will prevent any burns and ensures that cleaning products work effectively and safely.

Step 2: Apply a cleaning solution

Spray a gentle hob cleaner or a diluted white vinegar solution onto the surface.

Step 3: Wipe with a microfibre cloth

Use a microfibre cloth to lift away grease, spills, and food residues without scratching the surface.

Step 4: Tackle the edges with a steam cleaner

For any stubborn grime around the sides of your induction hob, use a steam cleaner to loosen dirt effortlessly. This is particularly effective for cleaning hard to reach spaces.

Step 5: Finish with a Window Vac for a Streak-Free Shine

For a flawless, finish run a window vac to remove any excess moisture. This prevents streaks and ensures a clear surface without the risk of scratches.

 

Expert Kitchen Cleaning Tips and Hacks

Before we finish, here’s some of our expert kitchen cleaning tips and hacks to really elevate your cleaning game:

How do you prevent your bin from smelling?

Place a few dryer sheets or a sprinkle of baking soda at the bottom of your bin to absorb any bad smells.

Quickly refresh your dishwasher:

Place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack of your dishwasher and run an empty cycle.

How do you unclog your kitchen drain naturally?

Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by 1 cup vinegar down the drain. Let it fizz for 10 minutes, then flush with hot water.

Make your kettle limescale free:

Boil equal parts water and white vinegar to remove limescale, then rinse thoroughly.

 

Beldray: Keeping Your Kitchen Cleaning Effortless

Regular upkeep makes all the difference. From tackling microwave messes to achieving a streak-free hob. Plus, with minimal effort, you can keep everything from your bins to your kettle in top condition by following our expert tips. Looking for even more cleaning inspiration? A clean kitchen truly brightens every day, so subscribe to our email newsletter and get the latest home cleaning advice delivered straight to your inbox! Check out our range of cleaning products here to begin your spring cleaning!