Life Hack: Can I use a dishwasher tablet to clean my microwave?

Plus other methods to clean the appliance

Need some cleaning shortcuts when it comes to your microwave?

Over the years in this column, we have looked at many ways that a dishwasher tablet can clean other appliances and stains. They are a go-to for big jobs like oven cleaning and getting your washing machine sparkling, as well as unexpected tasks like unclogging sinks. 

A reader recently got in touch to ask if a dishwasher tablet could also be used to clean a microwave and the answer is yes. To do this, dissolve a dishwasher tablet in a bowl of hot water. Dip a microfibre cloth into the mixture, squeeze it to remove excess liquid and apply it to the inside of the microwave, scrubbing when needed to remove food residue.