How to Clean a Burnt Stain on the Outside of Your Microwave

A burnt-food stain on your microwave's exterior needn't be a permanent mark. Distilled white vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that safely removes stains from metal without damaging the microwave's surface. When mixed with cream of tartar -- another kitchen staple -- the solution acts as an exfoliating paste to remove stains and maintain the microwave's finish. As with any homemade solution, test it on an inconspicuous area of the microwave before slathering on the paste to make sure the concoction won't damage your appliance.

Things You'll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Distilled white vinegar
• Cream of tartar
• Spoon or kitchen whisk
• Soft cleaning cloths
• Paper towel

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Place 2 tbsp. cream of tartar and 1 tsp. vinegar in a bowl.

   • 2

     Mix the ingredients together with a spoon or whisk; slowly add more vinegar until the mixture has the consistency of a paste.

   • 3

     Dampen a clean cloth, and scoop 1 tsp. of the paste onto the cloth. Rub the paste into the stain and let it dry.

   • 4

     Wipe off the paste with a dry paper towel or cloth to remove the stain.

   • 5

     Repeat steps 3 and 4 if burnt-food residue remains.