11 Microwave Uses to Simplify Your Housework

Your microwave oven is not just for reheating your quick dinner. It can do so much more to make your life easier. In this article, we will show you how to harness the power of microwaves to help you in your everyday cleaning routine.

1. Disinfect Kitchean Sponges

Disinfecting your kitchen sponge is an essential step to keep your kitchen bacteria-free. It’s also great for removing that nasty smell. Microwaving your sponge on medium heat for about 2 minutes can kill 99% of bacteria. However, make sure to wet the sponge first and put it in a microwave-safe bowl filled with water. The water creates steam, which helps to disinfect the sponge effectively. If you don’t have a microwave-safe bowl, you can put the wet sponge in a ziplock bag and microwave it for the same amount of time.

2. Check Containers’ Compatibility With Microwaves

Before using a container in your microwave, it’s essential to check whether it’s safe to use. Microwaving unsafe containers can cause them to melt or release harmful chemicals into your food. To test the compatibility of the container, fill a microwave-safe mug with cold water and place it in the middle of the container. Microwave on high power for a minute. If the container is cold and the water is hot, it’s safe to use. If the container is hot – then you better exercise caution.

3. Clean Cutting Boards

According to cleaning experts, cutting boards can harbour harmful bacteria and unpleasant odours. To clean your wooden cutting board, start by rubbing half a lemon over the surface. Then microwave it on medium heat for about a minute. The lemon juice will sanitise and remove any stale smells left from foods such as onions, garlic, and meat. For plastic cutting boards, it’s best to clean them with hot, soapy water or put them in the dishwasher.

4. Sterilise Soil

Like auto insurance is essential for cars, sterilising soil is crucial to ensure healthy plant growth, and the microwave can be a quick and effective way to do it. First, put some soil in a microwave-safe container, add water until the soil is moist but not soaking, and microwave on high power for about 90 seconds. This will kill any pests, weed seeds, and diseases in the soil, leaving it clean and ready for planting. Keep in mind that using this method can reduce the nutrient content of the soil, so be sure to add fertilisers and other necessary nutrients before planting.

5. Smooth Removal of Stamps from Envelopes

Removing stamps from envelopes without damaging them, just like cleaning ducts, can be a challenge, but microwaving can make it easy. Start by wetting the stamp with a few drops of water. Then, microwave on medium heat for no longer than 20 seconds. The heat will loosen the adhesive, making it easy to remove the stamp in perfect condition. This trick is especially useful for collectors and enthusiasts who want to preserve the stamps’ condition.

6. Revive Stale Bread

If your bread has gone stale, you can use your microwave to make it soft and fresh again. Wrap the bread in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for about 10 seconds. The moisture from the towel will transfer to the bread, making it soft and warm. Be sure not to overheat the bread, as it can become rubbery and tough.

7. Roast Garlic

In the oven, roasting garlic can take a long time, but in the microwave, it only takes a few minutes. Remove the outer layers of the garlic bulb before slicing off the top to expose the cloves. Put the garlic cloves in a microwave-safe receptacle, drizzle with olive oil, and microwave on high for approximately one minute per clove. The garlic will become caramelised and tender, making it ideal for smearing on bread or adding to your favourite dishes.

8. Soften Brown Sugar

If your brown sugar has become hard and lumpy, you can use your microwave to soften it. Brown sugar may be softened in the microwave by placing it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a moist paper towel, and heating it for 15 to 20 seconds on high. The moisture from the towel will transfer to the sugar, making it soft and easy to use. Be sure to use the sugar immediately or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from hardening again.

9. Peel Garlic Quickly

Peeling garlic can be a time-consuming and messy task, but your microwave can make it easy. Start by placing a head of garlic in the microwave and heating it on high for about 20-30 seconds. The heat will loosen the cloves, making them easy to separate from the head. Then, simply place the individual cloves in a bowl, cover with another bowl, and shake vigorously. The garlic will come out of the skin quickly and easily.

10. Soften Butter

If you need to soften butter quickly for a recipe, your microwave can do the trick. Start by placing the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heating it on high for 5-10 seconds. Check the butter and continue heating it in 5-second increments until it reaches your desired consistency. Be careful not to overheat the butter because it’ll melt.

11. Make Popcorn

While making popcorn in the microwave is not a new concept, there are a few hacks that can make it easier and more flavorful. Start by placing popcorn kernels in a microwave-safe bowl and covering them with a lid or plate. Microwave on high for about 2-3 minutes or until the popping slows down. Then, melt some butter in the microwave and drizzle it over the popcorn for added flavour. You can also experiment with different seasonings like salt, cinnamon, or chilli powder to add more flavour.

Final words

You may save time and effort cleaning and organising your house by coming up with novel uses for your microwave. Cleaning chopping boards, sterilising dirt, and removing stamps from envelopes are just a few of the many household chores that may be made easier with the help of the microwave. However, to prevent injuries and damage to your microwave, you should use caution and observe all safety guidelines. You can make the most of your microwave and maintain a healthy environment at home by following the advice in this article.