Cockroach smell is definitely one of the vilest smells imaginable. If you have ever had the unfortunate experience of dealing with a cockroach inside your microwave, you can imagine how quickly the stench can fill up the small space. Luckily, there’s an easy and natural solution.
You may start by cleaning your microwave and spray vinegar solution along the four walls, base, and top of your microwave. Leave it for at least 15 minutes, then wipe everything dry. You may run the microwave on high for about two minutes to help the vinegar smell dissipate.
This method often works reasonably fast as vinegar acts as a potent cleaning agent that can quickly eliminate even the most stubborn smells. If it doesn’t work, you can try and repeat the process or try one of the alternative solutions we’ll discuss later on.
What Do Cockroaches Smell Like?
At first sniff, cockroaches might not smell like much. But to a trained nose, these pests emanate a musty, slightly pungent odor. If you have ever had the displeasure of smelling a single cockroach, chances are you will be able to identify the smell again if you come across it in the future.
Cockroaches produce this smell by secreting an oily liquid from their thorax. The main function of this liquid is to act as a waterproof barrier, but it also serves to repel predators and help the cockroach identify other members of its species. In high concentrations, this cockroach smell can be overwhelming, particularly in small spaces like microwaves.
This scent also comes from certain chemicals that cockroaches secrete. Some of these chemicals are used to mark cockroach territory, while others help the insects to identify potential mates. However, the most important function of these chemicals is to ward off predators.
Cockroaches have many natural enemies, and their distinctive smell helps to keep them safe. To humans, this scent might be unappealing. But to a cockroach, it’s the perfect way to stay alive and thrive.
What Should You Do If You’ve Noticed a Cockroach Smell Inside Your Microwave?
The musty, oily smell of cockroaches is hard to miss. If you’ve noticed that this smell is coming out of your microwave, your first step is to make sure that you get rid of the source – the cockroach.
Some cockroaches may nest in your microwave or may hide beneath those ventilation holes as your microwave gives these roaches the perfect hiding spot and breeding temperature.
Its warmth is perfect for cockroaches to lay their eggs. If you spot a cockroach or two in your microwave, it’s time to do a deep cleaning.
Take everything out of the microwave and wash all surfaces with soapy water. Don’t forget to clean those ventilation holes as well.
Before you take care of the smell, it’s crucial that you take care of the cockroaches that may be hiding there. Getting rid of the smell without addressing the problem is just a temporary solution, and it won’t take long before the cockroaches come back and the smell returns.
How to Get Rid of Cockroach Smell from Microwave
Once you’ve cleaned everything and eradicated the source of the problem, you can start working on getting rid of that cockroach smell.
Use Vinegar
This is a simple solution that seems to work 90% of the time. Many homeowners have tried it and reported back that it did wonders in getting rid of the cockroach smell. All you need is white vinegar and water. Mix equal parts of both ingredients in a bowl or a spray bottle.
White vinegar is a natural deodorizer and will help to remove the cockroach smell from your microwave. This is a safe solution that you can use if you have children or pets in the home.
Spray the solution all over the inside of your microwave. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Leave it for about 15 minutes to an hour before wiping everything down with a clean, dry cloth.
The vinegar smell might be strong at first, but it will dissipate quickly, so you don’t have to worry about any vinegar smell lingering in your microwave oven.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is another natural deodorizer that’s readily available in most homes. It acts by absorbing odors and leaving behind a fresh smell.
To use this method, mix equal parts of baking soda and water to form a paste. Apply the paste all over the inside of your microwave oven. Let it sit for about an hour before wiping everything down with a clean cloth. You can also sprinkle baking soda directly on any areas that seem to have a strong cockroach smell.
If you’re worried about the paste making it difficult to clean your microwave, don’t be. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive and will come off easily when you wipe it down with a cloth or sponge.
Alternatively, you can also place a cup of baking soda in your microwave overnight to make sure that every nook and cranny gets exposed to the baking soda. In the morning, simply remove the cup of baking soda and give your microwave a quick wipe down.
Lemon Juice
When you think of lemon, what comes to mind? Citrusy and fresh, right? That’s exactly what you need to get rid of the cockroach smell. Lemon juice naturally deodorizes and freshens up the area and can leave your microwave oven smelling fresh and clean.
Simply cut a lemon in half and rub it all over the insides of your microwave. You can also add a few tablespoons of lemon juice to a bowl of water and run it in the microwave for a couple of minutes.
The steam will help to loosen any caked-on dirt and grime, while the lemon juice works its magic in getting rid of that cockroach smell.
Once you’re done, give your microwave a good wipe down with a clean cloth. You can also mix lemon juice with water and spray it all over your microwave for a squeaky clean and fresh-smelling microwave oven.
Final Thoughts
The pungent odor from cockroaches, whether dead or alive, can be incredibly unpleasant. If you’ve noticed your microwave smells like cockroaches, don’t panic. In most cases, it’s an easy problem to fix.
Vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda are natural deodorizers that work incredibly well in helping get rid of the smell. These items are commonly found at home, making it easier and more convenient for you to get rid of that cockroach smell.
