Quck answer
To get rid of a melted plastic smell in the microwave, follow these steps:
1. Clean the microwave: Remove any visible melted plastic or debris from the microwave.
2. Ventilate the area: Open windows or turn on a fan to help circulate fresh air.
3. Baking soda solution: Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the mixture for 5 minutes, then let it sit for another 5 minutes to absorb the odor.
4. Vinegar solution: Alternatively, you can use a solution of 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 5 minutes, then let it sit for 5 minutes to eliminate the smell.
5. Lemon water: Cut a lemon in half, squeeze the juice into a bowl of water, and place it in the microwave. Heat the mixture for 5 minutes, then let it sit for 5 minutes to freshen the smell.
6. Wipe clean: After the solution has sat for a few minutes, carefully remove the bowl and wipe down the inside of the microwave with a clean cloth or sponge.
7. Repeat if necessary: If the smell persists, repeat the process or consider professional cleaning options.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove the melted plastic smell from your microwave.
If a plastic food container overheats in the microwave, it can result in melted plastic. Sometimes, the lids of plastic takeout containers may start melting before the food underneath them gets hot. This can lead to a smelly microwave and potentially ruin a meal. To eliminate the burnt plastic smell from a microwave, it is important to air it out and then clean it using natural odor-busting cleaners like vinegar.
Using Steam to Clean the Microwave
Steam cleaning the inside of the microwave serves two purposes: it helps eliminate the plastic odor and also removes any leftover grime from food splatters. Vinegar is a secret ingredient that can effectively get rid of odors and cut through caked-on food stains.
To steam clean the microwave, take a microwave-safe glass measuring cup and fill it halfway with tap water. Add 2 tablespoons of white vinegar to the cup and place it in the microwave. Heat the liquid for two to three minutes or until the inside of the microwave window becomes steamed up. Keep the microwave door closed for at least 10 minutes and then open it.
Take a sponge and use the liquid from the measuring cup to wipe down the entire interior of the microwave. Leave the microwave door open to allow the appliance to air dry.
Dealing with Smelly Microwave Vents
If you have already cleaned the microwave and notice new odors when using it, it is possible that the microwave vent smells. Pay attention to whether the smell is similar to the melted plastic odor you noticed before cleaning the microwave. It is possible that some of the air circulating through the heat vent still carries the scent of burnt plastic. If the smell resembles an electrical issue or if the microwave is not functioning properly, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
If you are certain that the odor is just a lingering scent of melted plastic, it will eventually dissipate on its own. Alternatively, you can try the steam cleaning method again, this time adding a few squirts of lemon juice.
Burnt Odors in a New Microwave
A new microwave may also emit a burnt plastic smell or an odor resembling an electrical malfunction the first few times it is used. In some cases, you may even see smoke. This is normal as the circuit board inside the appliance heats up during initial use.
A combination microwave/convection oven may occasionally produce unusual plastic or burning odors, especially when it is new. This could be due to the convection heat element warming up, and the odors should subside after a few more uses.
Is the Smell of Burnt Plastic in the House Dangerous?
A burnt plastic smell in the house from the microwave is not dangerous if the microwave has been used correctly. However, deliberately microwaving plastic items to melt them can release harmful fumes. To eliminate the odor of burning plastic in the house, open the windows and turn on ceiling fans. If you have box fans, place them in or near windows, with one fan drawing in fresh air and another fan on the opposite side of the house blowing out the smell. Boiling a pot of water with a few slices of oranges or cinnamon sticks can also create a pleasant aroma.
