Dial-a-Maid
Microwaves cause the water, fat, and sugar molecules in food to vibrate, which creates heat, says a 40+ year old Residential Cleaning Service servicing Highland Park, Il. Because the food is heated directly, the cookware and the interior of the oven generally do not get hot. Martha Stewart says in her Homekeeping Handbook, that microwave appliances are useful for quickly defrosting and warming, but not for browning or crisping foods. To fix this, some manufacturers offer microwaves with a convection feature, which circulates hot air around food to brown it and seal in juices. Others incorporate halogen light to accomplish the same thing. Microwaves with sensors measure the amount of moisture inside food and adjust power levels accordingly. The oven automatically shuts off when it senses that the food is cooked. If you are primarily interested in reheating foods or making popcorn, you won't need these advanced features. All you'll need is a turntable, which helps foods heat more evenly.
Microwaves come in a variety of sizes, from compact to large. Capacity can range from 0.7 cubic foot to 2 cubic feet, with a capacity in the range of 1.6 cubic feet being the most popular. Most ovens sit on the countertop, but some are mounted over the range ( and can include a ventilation fan) or are installed at eye level in a tall cabinet. Over-the-range and build-in models are considerably more expensive than countertop models.
To Clean Microwave Ovens, always wipe them out after each use. This will prevent any food residue from building up. Some additional tips for Cleaning are the following:
1. Wipe stains with a soft cloth or sponge and a solution of warm water and mild dishwashing liquid.If that isn't enough, clean with 1 or 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a quart of water.
2. For caked-on residue, heat water in a microwave-safe dish on High for 3 minutes: let it stand for 5 minutes, with the door closed, and then wipe the interior.
3. For Odors, clean with a baking soda solution, wipe surfaces dry, and leave the door open for a few hours. If the smell persists, stir 6 tablespoons baking soda or 1/2 cup lemon juice into a cup of water. In a microwave-safe dish, heat the mixture on High for two to three minutes. Then leave the door open for a couple of hours. These are proven tactics for Microwaves to stay clean, says a 40+ year old Residential Cleaning Service servicing Highland Park, Il.
