How to Get the Bacon Smell Out of a Microwave

Your microwave won't smell like bacon much longer.

Bacon is a particularly strong and difficult smell to get out of a microwave, but judicious use of citrus can do the trick. The best part about this solution is that it is all-natural and involves no harsh chemicals or scrubbing.

1. Clean the microwave of all visible splatters and spills. Mix the dish soap with warm water to create suds, and wipe everything down with your sponge.

2. Cut the lemon into quarters.

3. Place lemon pieces in a small microwave-safe container.

4. Fill the container about 3/4 full with tap water. Make sure you can pick up and move the container comfortably, without spilling.

5. Place the container of lemon and water in your microwave and close the door.

6. Microwave on high for 3 minutes. Allow the container to sit in the microwave for 5 minutes more.

7. Remove the container of lemon and water from the microwave and discard. Enjoy your fresh-smelling microwave. The lemon scent will dissipate in a short time, leaving only a nice, neutral-smelling microwave.

Tip

The lemon pieces can freshen up a smelly garbage disposal, even if they have been cooked. Simply dump your discarded water and lemon pieces down your disposal and turn it on. Any bad smells will disappear in a wave of lemony freshness. Use fresh lemon for this task. Using concentrated lemon juice or lemonade will not have the same effect. Although it will not help you avoid the smell completely, try cooking your bacon in the microwave with some sort of cover over it. Even a paper towel can help to at least soak up some of the grease spatter. Spattered grease is a major cause of bacon odors sticking around in microwaves.

Warning

Avoid removing the container of water and lemon from the microwave directly after cooking. It will be quite hot, and could burn your hands. It is also possible that an eruption of hot water could occur, which could splash and burn you.