A microwave oven works because certain radio waves cause some substances to get hot as the waves pass through them. Fats, sugars, and water are primarily affected, while most glass, porcelain, and plastics aren't. That's why the water can boil while the handle of a cup designed for microwave use stays cool. These ovens don't require a lot of care. To clean the interior, boil a cup of water for three or four minutes. The condensation will loosen the dirt and allow you to wipe it away with a damp cloth or sponge. Never use a commercial oven cleaner. Every few months, you can deodorize your microwave by washing the interior with a solution of a quarter-cup of baking soda to a quart of warm water. Rinse the inside before drying. Open the oven door to deactivate the unit before washing the touch-control panel with warm, soapy water. Learn how powerful your oven is. Microwaves can range from 400-watt compact models to full-size units with more than a thousand watts of power. Most recipes are designed for intermediate models in the 6- to-700-watt range, so adjust your cooking times accordingly.
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