How to Clean a Dirty Microwave (3 Quick and Easy Methods)

Maintaining a clean microwave is essential for both aesthetic and functional reasons. Food splatters can not only create unpleasant odors and visual clutter but may also impact the appliance’s efficiency, potentially leading to safety risks and affecting your warranty.

Fortunately, cleaning your microwave doesn’t have to be a burdensome task, nor does it require an array of specialized cleaning products. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore effective methods for cleaning your microwave using commonly available ingredients such as white vinegar, lemon, and baking soda. We’ll also highlight the benefits of each technique and provide expert tips to help you minimize grime accumulation in the future.

We have collected the information from Oven Clean, the UK’s Original Oven Cleaning Service.

How to Clean a Microwave with Lemon

Cleaning a microwave with lemon is a natural and efficient approach to removing grease, grime, stubborn stains, and unpleasant odors. The acidity of lemons, combined with their mild antibacterial properties, makes them particularly suitable for cleaning surfaces that frequently come into contact with food. Additionally, this method imparts a pleasantly fresh citrus scent to your microwave. Below, you will find a straightforward step-by-step guide to help restore both the appearance and aroma of your microwave.

Benefits of Cleaning with Lemon

• Lemons are known for their citric acid content, which can be quite effective in breaking down grease.
• Additionally, being natural and free from harsh chemicals, they present a safe option for use around children, pets, and food.
• Moreover, lemons are generally affordable, offering a cost-effective alternative to some commercial cleaning products available in stores.

What You’ll Need

• 1 lemon

• 1 microwave-safe bowl

• Water

• A sponge or cloth

The Method

1. To begin the cleaning process, please cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a microwave-safe bowl. Kindly add the lemon halves to the bowl as well. Next, fill the bowl with approximately 230ml of cold water.
2. After preparing the bowl, place it in the microwave and set it to high for a duration of 3-5 minutes. This heating will generate steam, and the lemon juice will aid in breaking down any grease present.
3. Once the timer goes off, I recommend keeping the microwave door closed for an additional 2-3 minutes. This pause allows the steam to effectively loosen any dirt or stains inside the microwave.
4. When you’re ready, please open the microwave door and carefully remove the bowl, as it may be hot. With a sponge or cloth, you can now wipe down the interior surfaces, including the ceiling of the microwave, as the steam should have made it easier to tackle any food splatters or stains.
5. If your microwave features a turntable, it would be beneficial to remove it and wash it with soap and water. Finally, please remember to clean the area where the turntable rests for a thorough finish.

How to Clean a Microwave with White Vinegar

There are a variety of methods and products that can be used to clean a microwave, but white vinegar stands out as an effective, safe, and economical option. Utilizing steam cleaning with white vinegar can simplify the task significantly. Its acidic nature makes white vinegar an excellent natural cleaning agent, capable of effectively addressing dirt and grime buildup in microwaves with ease.

Benefits of Cleaning with White Vinegar

• White vinegar is a cost-effective option readily available at many retailers.
• It is a natural product that lacks harsh chemicals or strong fumes, making it a safer choice for household use.
• Additionally, vinegar effectively neutralizes odors rather than merely covering them up.
• Lastly, its environmentally friendly properties make it a sustainable choice for cleaning and other applications.

What You’ll Need

• White vinegar

• Microwavable bowl or jug

• Cleaning sponge

• Clean dry cloth

The Method

1. To begin the cleaning process of your microwave, take a microwave-safe bowl or jug and carefully pour in 500ml of water, followed by adding 2 tablespoons of white vinegar.
2. Next, position the bowl or jug inside the microwave and set it to full power for 5 minutes. During this time, you will observe the liquid starting to boil.
3. After the 5 minutes have elapsed, it is advisable to leave the microwave door closed for an additional 3 minutes. This will help trap the steam inside, which is effective for loosening any burnt-on food residue.
4. Once the time is up, cautiously open the microwave door and remove the bowl or jug, keeping in mind that the solution will be very hot. It is recommended to use a glove or oven mitt for safety. If your microwave has removable components like a turntable, feel free to take these out as well.
5. With a sponge in hand, start wiping down the interior of the microwave, beginning from the top and working your way down to the sides and the door. You should find that the steam has helped make the grime easier to remove; however, some stubborn spots may require a bit more effort.
6. Afterward, be sure to clean the turntable with the sponge and dry it off with a fresh, lint-free cloth.
7. Finally, use the cloth to give the microwave a thorough buff to ensure it is left dry and gleaming. Once everything is cleaned and dried, you can replace the removable parts, and your microwave will be ready for use once again!

How to Clean a Microwave Oven with Baking Soda

One of the most effective approaches to cleaning a microwave involves the use of baking soda, which is both a natural and efficient solution. Its gentle yet powerful properties, including mild abrasiveness, make it particularly well-suited for removing stubborn food splatters without risking any damage. Additionally, baking soda is recognized for its capacity to absorb odors, lift stains, and break down grease. Below, you’ll find a guide on utilizing this remarkable cleaning agent to ensure the interior of your microwave is well-maintained.

Benefits of Cleaning with Baking Soda

• Baking soda serves as a natural deodorizer, making it effective in neutralizing odors within the microwave.
• Additionally, its mildly abrasive quality aids in the removal of stubborn stains without causing scratches.
• Moreover, similar to lemon and vinegar, baking soda offers a safe, chemical-free alternative to many commercial cleaning products.

What You’ll Need

• 1 tablespoon of baking soda

• 1 cup of water

• A microwave-safe bowl

• A sponge or cloth

The Method

1. To effectively clean your microwave, start by combining 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 230ml of water in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir the mixture until the baking soda is fully dissolved.
2. Next, place the bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for approximately 3-5 minutes. This process will generate steam, which can assist in loosening any food particles and grime present inside the microwave.
3. Once the timer goes off, it’s advisable to keep the microwave door closed for an additional 2-3 minutes. This allows the steam to continue its work on any stubborn dirt and grease.
4. Afterward, carefully open the microwave door and remove the bowl. Please use a tea towel as the bowl may be hot.
5. With a damp sponge or cloth, gently wipe down the interior of the microwave, attending to the roof, walls, floor, and turntable. The baking soda will aid in lifting grease and stains, making the cleaning process more manageable.
6. If your microwave features a turntable, it is beneficial to remove it and wash it with warm, soapy water. Don’t forget to wipe down the area where the turntable sits.
7. Should you find any lingering odors, placing a bowl of dry baking soda inside the microwave (while it is turned off) can be an effective way to absorb any remaining smells.