how do you clean a microwave filter

1. Determine the type of filter you have.
2. Unplug your microwave.
3. Slide or twist the cover for the filter off if there is one.
4. Put filter in dishwasher or prepare boiling water.
5. Let it soak.
6. Remove filter from water and let it cool.
7. Scrub off any remaining debris.
8. Put filter back. Click here to read about the 7 most overlooked Home Maintenance tasks.

Full Answer

How to clean microwave vent filter?

• Unplug the microwave from the power source.
• Once the microwave is set, take the time to find the filter.
• Remove the filter from the microwave. ...
• Take it to the sink, and wash it with clean water and dish soap.
• If there is stubborn dirt that the soap cannot remove, you can use baking soda to ease up the process.

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How to clean your microwave grease filter?

Step-By-Step

1. Determine the type of filter you have. There are two ways people tend to clean their grease filters: in the dishwasher, or by hand. ...
2. Unplug your microwave. Before you remove your filter, it’s best if you unplug your microwave just to be safe. ...
3. Slide or twist the cover for the filter off if there is one. ...
4. Put filter in dishwasher or prepare boiling water. ...

More items...

Does a microwave have a filter?

Over-the-range microwaves typically have both a grease filter and a charcoal filter and they should each be handled differently when it comes time to replace or clean them. Here are Bauer's top...

Do all microwaves have filters?

The over-the-range charcoal microwave is designed with a filter to reduce odour. Many were unaware microwaves have built-in filters that require cleaning. However not all microwaves are designed ...

How to clean a microwave filter after soaking?

How do I clean my microwave?

What type of microwave filters are there?

How to get rid of grease stains in microwave?

How to remove filters from microwave?

How to soak a filter in water?

Why is it important to maintain a microwave?

See 2 more

Can microwave filters be washed?

Can you wash microwave filters? You can wash stainless steel or aluminum mesh filters. These filters require cleaning about every three months. If you cook a lot, you can inspect the filter every four to six weeks to make sure that your air is being cleaned properly.

Can you wash and reuse microwave filters?

How to replace a microwave charcoal filter. The charcoal filter for your microwave should be replaced every 6 months. The microwave charcoal filter cannot be cleaned.

Can you clean a microwave charcoal filter?

The charcoal filter is behind the vent grille at the top front of the microwave oven. The charcoal filter cannot be cleaned and should be replaced about every 6 months, or as prompted by filter status indicator.

Where is the filter in a microwave located?

0:211:19Replacing Your Microwave Charcoal Filter - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou will need to remove two screws on the top of the microwave vent cover on the top of theMoreYou will need to remove two screws on the top of the microwave vent cover on the top of the microwave. Use a Philips head screwdriver to remove the vent mounting screws tip. The cover forward then

What happens if you don't change microwave filter?

What Happens If I Don't Clean My Microwave Grease Filter? If you fail to clean your grease filter you're probably looking at more grease stains on the walls surrounding your stovetop, a less functional exhaust fan, and sticky buildup on the grease filter that will trap food and other grossness.

How many filters does a microwave have?

Most over-the-range models actually have two filters: a charcoal filter and a grease filter. The charcoal filter is usually found near the top of the microwave behind a vent grill but use your owner's manual to confirm the location.

Can a charcoal filter be washed?

Carbon/charcoal filters used in your ventilation cannot be cleaned. Simply replace them every 3 to 4 months, depending on usage. How often should i replace the range hood charcoal filters?

Can you use a microwave without a charcoal filter?

A charcoal filter must be used if the over-the-range microwave oven is not vented to the outside. Charcoal filters are model specific. It is important to use the correct charcoal filter for your microwave model when replacing the filter.

Can I put microwave filter in dishwasher?

0:210:48Cleaning Your Microwave Grease Filter - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou pull the filter away from the tab. And down cleaning the filter is really easy you can wash yourMoreYou pull the filter away from the tab. And down cleaning the filter is really easy you can wash your grease filter with mild soap. And water or you can place it in the top rack of your dishwasher.

How do I change my microwave filter?

0:081:03Microwave Grease Filter Replacement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNo special tools are required to replace your grease filter to remove the old grease filter use theMoreNo special tools are required to replace your grease filter to remove the old grease filter use the filters tab to slide it over slightly. Then pull the filter down and out. Now take the new filter.

How do you clean a grease filter?

1:505:30Clean Greasy Range Hood Filters! How to Clean Your Stove HoodYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFeel free to lay a towel down put the grates on top and then blast steam directly onto the filterMoreFeel free to lay a towel down put the grates on top and then blast steam directly onto the filter you'll see that the grease literally falls off and directly on to the towel.

Does a microwave need a charcoal filter?

A charcoal filter must be used if the over-the-range microwave oven is not vented to the outside. Charcoal filters are model specific. It is important to use the correct charcoal filter for your microwave model when replacing the filter.

Can charcoal filters be washed?

Carbon/charcoal filters used in your ventilation cannot be cleaned. Simply replace them every 3 to 4 months, depending on usage. How often should i replace the range hood charcoal filters?

How do you clean a microwave filter with baking soda?

It's easy to remove a grease filter, just slide it out of its housing. Then submerge it in a sink full of hot water, dish soap, and ¼ cup baking soda. Let the filter soak for 10-15 minutes, and then clean with a scrubbing brush, taking care not to bend the metal. Dry the cleaned filter and slide it back into position.

How do you clean a grease filter?

1:505:30Clean Greasy Range Hood Filters! How to Clean Your Stove HoodYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFeel free to lay a towel down put the grates on top and then blast steam directly onto the filterMoreFeel free to lay a towel down put the grates on top and then blast steam directly onto the filter you'll see that the grease literally falls off and directly on to the towel.

How often should you clean your microwave grease filter?

How often you clean your microwave grease filter will depend on the type of cooking you do and how often you cook. As a general rule of thumb, you...

How often should you replace your microwave charcoal filter?

Microwave charcoal filters should be replaced at the very least every six months. However, if you cook frequently, check your filter every three mo...

Where can you purchase a microwave filter replacement?

You can purchase microwave filter replacements at any home improvement store or on your appliances’ manufacturer’s website. If you need specific in...

What filters do microwaves come with?

The over-the-range microwave comes with filters such as grease filter and charcoal filter . These filters need to be removed from the microwave for regular proper cleaning and replacement to function well. Let us find out how to clean microwave filter.

Where is the grease filter on a microwave?

Step 1. Search for the microwave grease filter. It is commonly found below the microwave, just above your stovetop.

How to remove a microwave filter?

After removing the screws, move the vent panel. Remove the filter by gently lifting the filter away from the microwave and tilting the top part down. You can also use gloves during this part to avoid getting your hands dirty.

How often should you clean your microwave grease filter?

As a general rule of thumb, you should clean your grease filter at least every three months. However, if you cook often, it may be beneficial to clean it more often—around every four to six weeks.

Where can you purchase a microwave filter replacement?

You can purchase microwave filter replacements at any home improvement store or on your appliances’ manufacturer’s website. If you need specific information on what kind of filter you need to purchase, you can consult your owner’s manual.

How to put a microwave filter back in?

After your microwave filter has dried, place it back into the housing slot by gently pushing it inward and using the tab to slide it forward to its original position.

Where is the grease filter on a microwave?

The grease filter is usually located underneath the microwave. It’s a metal mesh rectangle or square with a small tab.

Do you need to clean the filter on a microwave?

If you’re not sure when you last cleaned or replaced your microwave filter, chances are that the time to do that is now. Grease or charcoal filters that are part of over-the-counter microwaves are usually what keep your kitchen air clear of odors and grease as you cook. To keep your vent fan working optimally, use this step-by-step guide to clean your microwave filter.

How to clean a microwave filter?

Let it soak for at least 10 minutes, or longer if necessary. Once the microwave filter is done soaking, use a dish brush or household scrub brush to clean it more thoroughly. Use gentle pressure and take care not to bend ...

How to remove grease from microwave?

Locate the microwave grease filter. It should be underneath your over-the-range microwave, above the stovetop. Remove the filter from its housing. The filter should slide or pop out easily – no tools required. If you’re not sure how to remove the grease filter, consult your owner’s manual. Place the microwave grease filter in a sink ...

Where is the charcoal filter on a microwave?

Your microwave’s charcoal filter is usually found near the top of your over-the-range microwave. Use your user guide or owner’s manual to confirm the location of the filter before you begin. Disconnect your microwave’s power or make sure that the microwave is turned off. Locate the screws that hold your microwave’s top vent panel in place.

Where is the grease filter on an over the range microwave?

Locate the microwave grease filter. It should be underneath your over-the- range microwave, above the stovetop.

Can you replace a Whirlpool charcoal filter?

(You can purchase Whirlpool ® Microwave filter replacements directly from whirlpool.com.) When you replace the filter, make sure it is properly positioned and secure.

Can you reheat leftovers in a microwave?

Any microwave can reheat leftovers, melt butter and cook frozen meals. But did you know investing in convection microwave cooking lets you use your microwave like a second oven?

Can you pop a microwave back into place?

Once the filter is completely dry, you can slide or pop it back into place. Maintaining your over-the-range microwave can help it function efficiently for years to come. Need to replace your current microwave? Check out our microwave guide to determine which size and style of microwave is best for your home.

How to clean a microwave filter?

First, she takes the protective cover off the top of the microwave and unveils a filter that has plenty of gunk on it. She then sprays the cover with cleaner and removes the dirty filter before submerging it in a sink full of soap and water and shaking it around multiple times.

Do microwaves have filters?

Honestly, we didn't even know that microwaves had filters.

Did the cleaning hacker forget all about the cleaning hack?

The social media user admitted that she "had forgotten all about" the cleaning hack in her caption, but we have to give her credit because we had no clue that we even had to replace microwave filters.

What are the different types of microwave filters?

Below will be the two main types of microwave filters that you might find in your microwave. One of them is much easier to clean and requires less maintenance and replacement over time.

Locate the microwave filters

Locating your microwave filter is an easy take to do. You will find the filter underneath the microwave on both edges facing vertical to you. To take out the microwave filter, you need to push one end up and maneuver it out at an angle. A Video will be included showing you how to remove your microwave filter.

Fill the kitchen sink with water

You do not need to fill the kitchen sink entirely, just enough water to cover the vents will be good enough. You can even use a large enough container to wash and clean the filter as long as you do not plan on using it again because the grease from the filters will stain the container especially if it is plastic.

Start Washing The Microwave Filter

Now that you have allowed the filters to soap in the hot water and degreaser, use a scrub brush and brush the filters properly. Face the filters at a downwards angle so the grease that the brush is picking up doesn’t get on you. Use the sponge to wash the sides of the filter now and you are done.

Leave Filters To Dry

The filters are completely clean now and if you still see grease spots, you can repeat the washing process again. The fastest way to dry the microwave filter if you are in a hurry to cook is by using a standing fan or placing them outside to dry.

Place Filters Back In Microwave

Now that the microwave filters are finished drying, it is safe to place them back in the microwave properly. Putting them back in the microwave incorrectly can cause your microwave vent and fans to get full of grease from cooking and ruin the entire microwave venting system. This will end up costing you a brand new microwave.

How to reset microwave filter

Resetting your microwave filter is very easy, all you need to do is clean the filters and place them back then hold the rest filter bottom for 3 seconds until it beeps at you and the light goes away. A video will be included showing you how to do it.

What to do when your microwave filter is dry?

When the filter is totally dry, put it back on your microwave the same way you took it off. That’s it!

Why Should I Clean My Microwave Grease Filter?

The purpose of a microwave grease filter is to catch grease that flies up from your stovetop. So you’ll only have a grease filter if you have an over-the-stove microwave.

How to clean a stainless steel filter?

To clean the filter in the dishwasher you need to make sure it’s dishwasher safe. Stainless steel filters are ok to wash in the dishwasher, but you need to hand wash aluminum ones. 2. Unplug your microwave. Before you remove your filter, it’s best if you unplug your microwave just to be safe. 3.

How to clean a dishwasher filter?

If you’re hand cleaning it, it’s a little more complicated, but still very easy. Fill a large pot up with water and add one cup of baking soda and a teaspoon of dish soap. Bring it to a boil and then put the filter in as far as it will go.

What happens if you don't clean your grease filter?

If you fail to clean your grease filter you’re probably looking at more grease stains on the walls surrounding your stovetop, a less functional exhaust fan, and sticky buildup on the grease filter that will trap food and other grossness. But ultimately, that’s really it.

Where is the grease filter on a microwave?

The placement of microwave grease filters vary from machine to machine, but they can typically be found on the underside of the microwave, clamped onto the machine by some sort of “slide-in” holding device.

How long does it take to clean a metal oven filter?

Let it soak. Let the filter soak until it is clean, this usually will take about 30 minutes , then flip the filter to the dirty side and do it again. Be careful and wear oven mitts because the metal filter (and the pot) will get very hot! Next Step. 6.

Why is it important to clean the filter on a microwave?

In addition, the filter helps the microwave to run efficiently. If you do not clean your microwave's charcoal filter often enough, it puts a strain on the appliance. This can make your microwave wear out more quickly. As such, it's important to remove and clean the filter periodically.

How long does a microwave charcoal filter last?

Clean your microwave charcoal filter often. Image Credit: ablokhin/iStock/GettyImages. Microwaves are an integral part of most modern kitchens, and they can last for many years when cared for properly. One part of your appliance that you might not be familiar with is its charcoal filter, which is an important part for both longevity ...

Why use a charcoal filter in a microwave?

Microwave Charcoal Filter Basics. A microwave's charcoal filter is used to keep your food tasting great and your appliance lasting longer. According to Home Depot, the charcoal filter helps to remove bad odors from the circulation of air within the microwave, which stops the cycle of bad smells that hinders your ability to enjoy great food. ...

How to clean a microwave filter after soaking?

You don’t want soap anywhere near food, so make sure that you rinse the filter completely. 5. Dry the microwave filter thoroughly.

How do I clean my microwave?

If you’re cleaning your microwave filter, you might be looking to clean your microwave as well. It wouldn’t be a bad idea, after all. It can be difficult to get into a routine where you clean your microwave every day, or even every week. Tough grease and stains will inevitably accumulate; luckily, you don’t need to struggle to get rid of them.

What type of microwave filters are there?

The two most common types of microwave filters are charcoal filters and stainless steel or aluminum mesh filters . Sometimes, the two are combined as well, with the steel filter catching the larger particles of grease and dirt and then the charcoal filter cleaning the air even more before it is recirculated back into your kitchen.

How to get rid of grease stains in microwave?

Let the microwave do the work for you. Simply place a bowl of vinegar or ammonia (1 cup) into the microwave and heat it up for three to four minutes. You can also dilute the vinegar or ammonia with water.

How to remove filters from microwave?

Removing the filters should be pretty self-explanatory; look for screws on the filters or clips on the microwave itself and detach them from your microwave. If you need a screwdriver, try this best seller from Amazon. 2.

How to soak a filter in water?

Just set it vertically in the water, let it soak, and then rotate to the other side and soak again.

Why is it important to maintain a microwave?

Since microwaves are used so often in homes, it’s important to maintain them properly. The more you cook, the more grease, dirt, chemicals, and other contaminants will recirculate through your microwave and outside your home.