If you have ever left something in the microwave too long, you may be familiar with the foul smell and discoloration that scorching can cause. Before you throw in the towel and head out to buy a new microwave oven, try cleaning and deodorizing your oven yourself!

Tips for cleaning your microwave after you have scorched food include:

Clean it thoroughly.

The best way to soften up stuck-on food is to put a cup of water in the microwave and heat until it boils. Leave the door closed and then carefully remove the cup, the turntable, and the support ring from the oven. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any spatters, spots, or crumbs before proceeding.

Bring out the baking soda.

Liberally sprinkle baking soda on the surfaces of the microwave and wipe all of the inside walls with a soft, damp cloth. The baking soda acts as an abrasive cleaner that is gentle enough to use on your microwave.

Rub out the discoloration.

Use an acetone-based nail polish remover on a damp cloth to wipe away the discolored spots left behind when you scorch something in your oven. Be sure to next clean the spots that were discolored with a clean, wet cloth to remove any residual acetone that is left behind.

Take care of the smell.

Get rid of the burnt smell that lingers after scorching food in the microwave by adding a capful of vanilla or almond extract to a bowl of water, and heat until boiling. For a spicy smell, try adding a bit of cinnamon to the water, too.

Try these tips to clean your microwave or to revive it after your accidentally scorch something inside. These simple strategies may save you the time, effort, and money that you would have spent on replacing the unit, and will keep your microwave sparkling-clean and fresh-smelling!