For nearly 60 years, the microwave has been an essential household appliance for billions of people worldwide. While it’s undoubtedly a convenient way to reheat your food, knowing how your microwave can affect your health is important.
According to an August 2024 research study published in Frontiers in Microbiology, microwaves are home to a community of microorganisms known as a microbiome, and you could have dozens of strains of bacteria potentially calling your microwave home. We’re breaking down the facts and the health risks associated with a dirty microwave.
What to Know About Bacteria in Your Microwave
In the recent study, researchers at the University of Valencia obtained samples from the insides of 30 microwaves in various settings — 10 from home kitchens, 10 from laboratories and 10 from other shared spaces, such as offices and cafeterias.
The samples were closely observed as a variety of bacteria flourished — more than 100 strains of bacteria and over 700 genera. Many strains were common and often found on human skin. However, others, including Klebsiella and Brevundimonas, are known to cause food-borne illnesses.
Researchers learned that each microwave’s location affected its microbiome, and microwaves used in laboratories had the most diverse bacteria, known as extremophiles, able to withstand the harshest conditions.
How a Microwave’s Microbiome Can Affect Your Health
While the thought of all these bacteria may seem startling, it’s important to remember that your microwave likely isn’t dirtier than any other part of your kitchen, including your countertops, refrigerator door handles or even your coffee machine.
Like the rest of your kitchen, the best way to keep your microwave free from bacteria is to keep it clean and disinfect it regularly.
When not cleaned properly, there is a risk of potential health concerns, though it's no higher than from touching any other unclean surface in your home.
How to Keep Your Microwave Oven Clean
Regularly disinfecting your microwave is a quick and simple way to help keep bacteria at bay. Here are a few tips to help reduce your risk of cultivating potentially harmful bacteria in your microwave:
- Clean up microwave spills and splatters immediately rather than allowing them to sit.
- Disinfect your microwave using diluted bleach or a disinfectant spray.
- Make a habit of wiping down your microwave often, even if you don’t see any visible stains.
If you clean your microwave — and all of your home surfaces — regularly, the risk of getting sick from any lingering bacteria is minimal.
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