Q: What’s the best way to clean the interiors of microwaves and garbage disposals?
— Becky Hague
Atlanta
A: The best way I’ve found to clean a microwave oven is to steam it. Microwave a cup or bowl of water on high till it boils, and then let the water boil for a few more minutes. The steam will soften the food spatters so you can wipe them right off.
As for the disposal, grinding ice will help clean the blades, and grinding lemon peels will help eliminate odors. Freezing equal parts water and vinegar in ice cube trays and then grinding them will accomplish both goals, according to household hint writers Graham and Rosemary Haley. Or try “Queen of Clean” Linda Cobb’s tip: Plug the drain, fill the sink with 3 inches of warm water and mix in 1 cup of baking soda. Then drain the sink with the disposal running.
Have a question about home maintenance, decorating or gardening? Akron Beacon Journal home writer Mary Beth Breckenridge will find answers for the queries that are chosen to appear in the paper. To submit a question, call her at 330-996-3756, or send email to mbrecken@thebeaconjournal.com. Be sure to include your full name, your town and your phone number or email address.
