Five Spectacular Microwave Wonders You Never Knew Existed in Your Kitchen

Many perceive a microwave to be solely a food heating or cooking gadget. Yet, it holds a distinct potential of being a remarkably efficient dryer. Ever had soggy chips that you wish could be crisp again? Just spread them in a thin layer on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for around 2-3 minutes. Within moments, you'll witness your chips returning to their original crispy state. Remarkably, this "revival" technique is not isolated to chips - it applies to many other food items such as pasta and stale bread. Even your wet clothes can experience the magic of microwave drying in emergencies.

A Sparkling Clean Microwave

Did you know your microwave can possess self-cleaning capabilities? All it needs is a microwave-safe bowl filled with two cups of water and a chopped-up lemon, lime, or orange, or several tablespoons of vinegar. Set the microwave high for 5-7 minutes until it steams up. Let it cool off for a smooth 15 minutes before opening the door. Now, removing the bowl and rotating dish, all you need is to wipe its interior clean — with no elbow grease required. There's indeed a deep irony in using a machine considered solely a tool of mess creation for thorough self-cleaning operations.

Sterilization Powerhouse

Sterilizing can be a tedious task, which many kitchen appliances can't perform. However, your microwave steps up to the plate here. You can sterilize gardening soil, kitchen sponges, cutting boards, and even glass jars for canning. For example, a damp kitchen sponge microwaved at high power for a minute eliminates all bacteria, including E.coli. Now, isn’t that another compelling reason to view your microwave beyond its conventional food heating role?

Striding Beyond the Kitchen

A microwave surely rules the kitchen, yet its wonders are not confined to this space. Did you know it can efficiently rejuvenate your old, dried-out mascara? What feels like a dry tube of mascara could be given a second life by taking off its lid and placing it in the microwave for 30 seconds along with a cup of water. Similarly, a microwaved shaving cream can work wonders, making your razor glide smoothly for the perfect shave.

Miracle with Corn

Do you associate a microwave with popcorn only? Think again. A microwave can cook an entire ear of corn in just 5 minutes — no peeling required! By microwaving corn in its husk and cutting off the stalk end, you allow the husk and silk to slide right off the cooked cob. This microwave delight is not just quick but incredibly tidy too. It expands your perspective, encouraging you to try other food items that cook more efficiently and less messily in a microwave.

Freshening Crystallized Honey

Honey is a kitchen essential that occasionally crystalizes over time. Thankfully, your microwave can come to your rescue here. A crystallized jar of honey merely needs a dash of microwave heat to restore its smooth texture. Place the jar, with the lid removed, on a high microwave setting for 30 seconds to 1 minute. What follows is a clear, easy-to-pour honey, reminding you once more about the impressive versatility of your microwave.