Household cleaning hacks circulate endlessly on social media, but when put to the test some popular tips are more effective than others.
One widely shared technique involves microwaving lemon halves in water to release steam and mild citric cleaning agents; proponents say this lifts light stains and eradicates smells.
Another method uses a solution of baking soda and water, microwaved briefly to generate steam that loosens grease and burnt-on food.
In a controlled home test, the lemon method produced mixed results: light splatters and staining around the microwave’s interior came away relatively easily, and the citrus scent provided a brief deodorising effect.
However, tougher grime on the microwave roof and hardened splatters resisted a single lemon-steam session, and additional time in the microwave was required to see further improvement.
By contrast, the baking-soda approach proved more effective on heavily soiled interiors.
A single microwave cycle with a dissolved tablespoon of baking soda generated steam that helped loosen stubborn residues, allowing them to be removed with minimal scrubbing; reviewers found the baking soda also absorbed lingering odours if left in a dry bowl inside the appliance afterwards.
Cleaning experts interviewed for the test emphasised that while natural hacks can reduce reliance on chemical cleaners, they are not always a panacea: degreasing sprays and physical agitation still have roles for very stubborn stains.
For people wary of harsh chemicals or looking for quick, low-cost cleaning, the baking-soda method appears to strike the best balance between convenience, cost and effectiveness.
Practically, users should always allow the microwaved solution to cool slightly before opening the door to avoid scalding and should use a damp cloth or non-abrasive sponge for wiping.
Overall, the experiment suggests that if you want a reliable, cheap and environmentally friendly microwave clean, reach for the baking soda.
One widely shared technique involves microwaving lemon halves in water to release steam and mild citric cleaning agents; proponents say this lifts light stains and eradicates smells.
Another method uses a solution of baking soda and water, microwaved briefly to generate steam that loosens grease and burnt-on food.
In a controlled home test, the lemon method produced mixed results: light splatters and staining around the microwave’s interior came away relatively easily, and the citrus scent provided a brief deodorising effect.
However, tougher grime on the microwave roof and hardened splatters resisted a single lemon-steam session, and additional time in the microwave was required to see further improvement.
By contrast, the baking-soda approach proved more effective on heavily soiled interiors.
A single microwave cycle with a dissolved tablespoon of baking soda generated steam that helped loosen stubborn residues, allowing them to be removed with minimal scrubbing; reviewers found the baking soda also absorbed lingering odours if left in a dry bowl inside the appliance afterwards.
Cleaning experts interviewed for the test emphasised that while natural hacks can reduce reliance on chemical cleaners, they are not always a panacea: degreasing sprays and physical agitation still have roles for very stubborn stains.
For people wary of harsh chemicals or looking for quick, low-cost cleaning, the baking-soda method appears to strike the best balance between convenience, cost and effectiveness.
Practically, users should always allow the microwaved solution to cool slightly before opening the door to avoid scalding and should use a damp cloth or non-abrasive sponge for wiping.
Overall, the experiment suggests that if you want a reliable, cheap and environmentally friendly microwave clean, reach for the baking soda.