The microwave is one of the hardest-working appliances in the kitchen, and also one of the dirtiest. Spills, splatters, and forgotten food leave stuck-on grime and lingering smells. The good news: learning how to clean a microwave doesn’t require harsh chemicals or hard scrubbing. With simple steam, lemon or vinegar, and a soft cloth, you can get it sparkling and odor-free in about 15 minutes.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lemon or ¼ cup of white vinegar
- 1 cup of water and a large microwave-safe bowl
- A soft sponge or microfiber cloth
- Warm soapy water for the turntable
Step 1: Make the Natural Cleaning Solution
Skip the harsh chemicals. Slice a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a microwave-safe bowl (drop the halves in too), or use ¼ cup of vinegar if you prefer. Add a cup of water. If you like, you can use a ready-made multipurpose vinegar cleaner instead.
 |
Multipurpose ★★★★★ Check the latest price on Amazon BUY NOW |
Step 2: Steam the Microwave
Place the bowl inside and heat on high for three to five minutes until the mixture boils gently. The steam softens hardened food and grease on the walls, ceiling, and door.
Step 3: Let It Sit for 5 Minutes
When the timer ends, keep the door closed for another five minutes. The trapped steam keeps loosening grime so you can skip the scrubbing.
Step 4: Wipe Down the Interior
Carefully remove the hot bowl with oven mitts or a towel. Then wipe the interior with a soft cloth or sponge, starting from the ceiling and working down. Softened stains should come off easily.
Step 5: Wash the Turntable and Accessories
Take out the turntable and any removable racks, wash them in warm soapy water, rinse, and let them air dry before putting them back.
Step 6: Clean the Exterior
Use the same lemon or vinegar solution on a cloth to wipe the door, handle, control panel, and buttons. Avoid soaking the buttons.
Step 7: Dry and Polish
 |
Pack of 12 ★★★★★ Check the latest price on Amazon BUY NOW |
To prevent streaks and water spots, dry and polish the inside and outside with a clean, dry cloth or paper towels.
Step 8: Remove Lingering Odors
If a smell remains, leave a small bowl of baking soda or a lemon slice inside for a few hours. It absorbs odors and leaves a fresh, citrusy scent.
How Often Should You Clean Your Microwave?
A quick wipe after messy meals and a full steam clean once a week (or every two weeks for light use) keeps buildup from baking on. Covering food while heating also prevents most splatters.
FAQ
Is vinegar or lemon better for cleaning a microwave?
Both work. Lemon leaves a fresher scent, while vinegar is stronger on grease. You can also combine them.
Is it safe to heat vinegar in the microwave?
Yes, when diluted with water in a microwave-safe bowl. Use oven mitts to remove the hot bowl.
Related Kitchen Guides
- How to microwave corn on the cob
- Top 3 best microwaves under $100
- Single-serve coffee maker buying guide
This article was last updated on September 30, 2026.
