Have you ever cooked fish in the microwave and been left with that unmistakable odor lingering for days? It can be frustrating to try everything from airing out your kitchen to using air fresheners, yet still being unable to get rid of the smell.
Fret not! There are several simple tricks you can try to eliminate the pesky fish scent from your microwave. Not only will these methods save you time and effort, but they also use common household ingredients.
In this article, we’ll share with you methods tried and tested by many individuals who have successfully gotten rid of fish smell from their microwaves without spending a fortune on expensive solutions. Whether it’s baking soda or vinegar, we’ve got you covered.
So say goodbye to the fishy aroma that follows you around and follow our easy steps – because no one deserves to live with their air smelling like yesterday’s lunch.
Use Vinegar and Water Solution
Mixing the Solution
If you’re struggling with getting rid of fish smell in your microwave, it can be tempting to just use a simple cleaning spray. Unfortunately, these sprays are often not enough to completely eliminate fish odors.
There is a solution that has proven effective time and time again: using vinegar and water.
To create this solution, simply combine equal parts water and distilled white vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup. Depending on the size of your microwave, you may need anywhere from 1-2 cups of each ingredient.
“Vinegar is great for removing odors because of its acidic properties,” says Sara Siskind, a certified nutritional health counselor. “When mixed with water and heated up in the microwave, it will help break down any grease and grime while also eliminating unwanted smells.”
Application Techniques
Once you’ve got your vinegar and water mixture ready to go, it’s time to put it to good use!
Carefully place the bowl or measuring cup inside your microwave and heat it up on high power for several minutes (typically around 5-7 minutes should do the trick). The goal here is to get the solution boiling hot so that it can thoroughly deodorize your microwave.
After the timer goes off, carefully remove the bowl or measuring cup from the microwave (using oven mitts if necessary) and wipe away any residue with a damp sponge or paper towel. You may notice that the fish smell is already starting to fade away!
- For stubborn stains, repeat the process a second time before wiping away any remaining residue.
- You can also add some lemon juice to the vinegar and water solution to give it a refreshing citrus scent.
One of the best things about using this method to get rid of fish smells in your microwave is that it’s completely natural, affordable, and safe for everyone in your household (including pets!). So before you reach for any harsh chemical cleaners, give vinegar and water a try – your nose will thank you!
Try Lemon Juice and Baking Soda
If the inside of your microwave smells like fish, it can be difficult to use it without feeling nauseous. One way to get rid of the smell is by using a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda.
Making the Paste
To make the paste, start by mixing 1/4 cup of lemon juice with 1 tablespoon of baking soda in a small bowl. Stir the ingredients until they form a thick paste.
Applying the Mixture
Once you’ve made the paste, use a sponge or cloth to apply it to the walls and ceiling of the microwave. Be sure to cover all areas where there is residue from the fish.
Letting the Mixture Sit
After you’ve applied the paste, let it sit for at least five minutes. This will give the mixture time to loosen up any grease or grime that may be causing the fishy smell.
Cleaning the Surface
- Next, use a damp cloth to wipe away the paste and any residue from the surface of the microwave. Be sure to rinse the cloth frequently to prevent spreading the fish smell around the appliance.
- Repeat this process as necessary until the microwave no longer smells like fish.
“Baking soda has natural deodorizing properties that can help neutralize strong odors such as those caused by fish. Lemon juice contains citric acid, which cuts through grease and grime.”
Using a combination of these two ingredients can create a powerful cleaning solution for your microwave while also eliminating unwanted smells.
Use Activated Charcoal
Fish lovers! Aren’t we all? But, at times, it becomes a headache when the fish smell enters your microwave and refuses to leave. Fear not! The solution is simple: activated charcoal.
Getting the Charcoal
You can find activated charcoal in health food stores or online. It is essential to get charcoal that is specifically made for odor elimination purposes. A recommended brand is Nature’s Way Activated Charcoal, which is an excellent choice for absorbing odors.
Creating the Solution
Pour water into a glass container and put two tablespoons of activated charcoal powder into it. Mix well until the charcoal dissolves completely in the water.
Applying the Solution
Take a sponge or cloth and soak it in the solution. Squeeze out the excess and use it to wipe down every surface of your microwave’s interior, including the door. Then, let the interior dry naturally. This process will remove any fishy odor from your microwave.
“Activated charcoal effectively eliminates unpleasant odors because it helps absorb moisture and thus deprives bacteria of an environment where they can multiply.” -Dr. Roshini Raj
This remedy is easy, cost-effective, and natural. Try using activated charcoal to say goodbye to unwanted smells in your microwave!
Try the Coffee Grounds Trick
Gathering the Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds are the best natural odor absorber and can be used to eliminate tough smells like fish from your microwave. You will need to gather 1-2 tablespoons of coffee grounds before you begin the process.
If you don’t have any leftover coffee grounds, then brewing a fresh cup of coffee is an easy way to get some. Alternatively, if you prefer not to use coffee, then baking soda can also work as a substitute for this technique.
Placing the Grounds
The next step in getting rid of the fish smell in your microwave is to place the coffee grounds on a flat plate or bowl. Make sure to spread them evenly across the surface so that they can absorb all the odors inside the appliance.
You can add moisture to the coffee grounds by pouring a small amount of water onto them, or leaving them damp after being brewed. This helps the coffee grounds release their absorption properties into the air more effectively.
Cover up the dish with the dampened coffee grounds and let it sit for about 30 minutes to one hour. Not only will this help absorb most of the strong fish smells in the microwave, but it may also leave a subtle aroma that could actually make your kitchen smell lovely!
“Coffee contains carbon and has a porous structure which makes it an excellent choice for absorbing bad odors.”
If fish is a common ingredient in your cooking, consider leaving a shallow container with coffee grounds at the back of your refrigerator. The same principle applies, though be sure not to put it near delicate produce such as berries, which might soak up the coffee flavor.
Use Essential Oils for a Fresh Smell
If you are struggling with the smell of fish that is still lingering in your microwave, essential oils could be the answer. They not only provide a fresh scent but also have antimicrobial properties that can help eliminate any remaining odors.
Selecting the Right Essential Oil
The first step to using an essential oil is selecting the right one. Some of the most effective choices include lavender, lemon, peppermint, and eucalyptus oil. These oils all have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties which make them ideal for eliminating bad smells.
Lavender oil is known for its calming effects and pleasant floral scent while lemon oil has a bright, citrusy aroma that can help mask strong odors like those from seafood. Peppermint oil has a refreshing and energizing scent, making it perfect for getting rid of musty or stale smells. Eucalyptus oil is great for cleaning as well as deodorizing due to its powerful antibacterial properties.
No matter which oil you choose, make sure it is 100% pure and high quality. Cheap synthetic oils may contain harmful chemicals and will not provide the same benefits.
Application Techniques
Once you have selected your essential oil, there are several ways you can use it to freshen up your microwave:
- Absorbent Pads: Place a few drops of essential oil on some absorbent pads or cotton balls then leave them inside the microwave overnight. The pads will soak up any excess moisture and neutralize odors.
- Cleaning Solution: Combine a few drops of essential oil with water, vinegar, and baking soda, then use the mixture to clean the inside of your microwave. Not only will it get rid of smells, but it will also disinfect your appliance.
- Steam: Fill a bowl with water and add a few drops of essential oil before microwaving it for several minutes. The steam will help loosen any stubborn food particles while the oil freshens up the air.
Before using any application technique, it is important to let your microwave cool down first. Essential oils are flammable, so make sure to follow all safety precautions when handling them.
“Essential oils can be great for cleaning as well as deodorizing thanks to their natural antimicrobial properties.” – Dr. Josh Axe
If you want to remove fishy odors from your microwave, consider using essential oils. High-quality oils like lavender, lemon, peppermint, and eucalyptus have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties that can neutralize bad smells. You can use absorbent pads, cleaning solutions, or steam to apply these oils in a safe and effective way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common causes of fish smell in the microwave?
The common causes of fish smell in the microwave are splatters and spills from cooking fish, using plastic wrap or containers that aren’t microwave-safe, and not properly cleaning the microwave after cooking fish. The smell can also linger if the fish is overcooked or left in the microwave for too long after cooking.
What are some effective methods for removing fish smell from the microwave?
One effective method for removing fish smell from the microwave is to mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for 5-10 minutes. Another method is to place a bowl of baking soda in the microwave overnight. Wiping down the inside of the microwave with a mixture of water and lemon juice or using a commercial odor-eliminating product can also be effective.
How can you prevent fish smell from lingering in the microwave?
To prevent fish smell from lingering in the microwave, cover the fish with a microwave-safe lid or vented cover to prevent splatters and spills. Use microwave-safe containers and avoid using plastic wrap. Clean the microwave after every use, paying extra attention to any areas with fish residue. Use a natural odor-absorber like baking soda to absorb any lingering smells.
What are some natural solutions for getting rid of fish smell in the microwave?
Natural solutions for getting rid of fish smell in the microwave include using white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Mixing equal parts water and white vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl and heating it for 5-10 minutes can eliminate odors. Placing a bowl of baking soda in the microwave overnight can also absorb smells. Wiping down the inside of the microwave with a mixture of water and lemon juice can also help.
Can you use commercial products to eliminate fish odor in the microwave?
Yes, there are several commercial products available that can be used to eliminate fish odor in the microwave. These products are designed specifically for removing unwanted odors and can be found at most grocery or home improvement stores. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product carefully and use in a well-ventilated area.