How to Clean a Microwave as Quickly as It Takes to Heat Up Leftovers

Whether it’s everyday messes or the great burrito explosion of Tuesday afternoon, the need to clean your microwave is unavoidable. However, many of us tend to procrastinate doing this chore (or haven’t done it ever, no judgment). 

While it’s easy to grab the morning’s instant oatmeal and close the door on your microwave woes, cleaning it is simpler than it seems. A house cleaner in your area is always on standby to help you conquer tough messes, but if you’re going the DIY route, here are a few easy and effective methods to make your microwave spotless. 

How to Clean the Inside of a Microwave With Vinegar

What You’ll Need:

Tools:

• Sponge or cloth

• Microwave-safe bowl or glass measuring cup

Materials:

• White vinegar

Time needed: 25 minutes (including waiting)

Vinegar is a household cleaning superhero, and it comes in the clutch when you’re dealing with a messy microwave. Use these steps to get your microwave clean as a whistle:

1. Fill a microwave-safe bowl or glass measuring cup with equal parts vinegar and water.

2. Microwave on high for around five minutes.

3. Leave the door closed for another 15 to 20 minutes.

4. Carefully remove the bowl (it may still be hot) and the turntable.

5. Wipe down all parts with a clean sponge or rag.

6. Use the leftover vinegar solution to scrub out any stubborn spots.

The Easiest Way to Clean a Microwave With Lemon

What You’ll Need:

Tools:

• Sponge or cloth

• Microwave-safe bowl or glass measuring cup

Materials:

• One fresh lemon (or 2 tablespoons of bottled lemon juice)

Time needed: 10 minutes

Don’t let a filthy microwave sour your otherwise clean kitchen—grab a lemon and prepare to wipe up the mess with ease. Here’s how to clean your microwave with lemon: 

1. Grab a microwave-safe bowl or a glass measuring cup and fill it up halfway with water.

2. Cut a fresh lemon in half (you can also sub out the fresh lemon for 2 tablespoons of bottled lemon juice).

3. Squeeze the juices into the water.

4. Gently drop the halves into the bowl.

5. Microwave on high for about three and a half minutes, or until the water starts to boil.

6. Allow the bowl to sit in the microwave for an additional three minutes. 

7. Remove the bowl (carefully, it may still be hot), as well as the turntable and any other removable components.

8. Wipe the interior and exterior parts clean with a sponge or damp cloth.

9. Use leftover lemon water to tackle any leftover stuck-on spots.

How to Clean a Microwave With Dish Soap

Photo: Andrii / Adobe Stock

What You’ll Need:

Tools:

• Sponge (with scratch-free scrubby side)

• Damp cloth or paper towel

• Bowl or bucket

Materials:

• Dish soap

• Baking soda (optional)

Time needed: 15 minutes(but it will depend on how dirty your microwave is)

If you’re limited on supplies, or if you’re someone who just likes to solve problems with elbow grease, you can clean your microwave with the same stuff you use to wash your dishes. Here’s what to do: 

1. Fill a bowl or bucket with a sudsy solution of hot water and dish soap.

2. Remove the turntable and any other removable parts.

3. Place removable parts in a sink full of hot, soapy water to soak while cleaning out the rest of the microwave.

4. Dampen your sponge and scrub the interior of the microwave and its removable parts (Note: Be careful not to get water inside of the vents).

5. Wipe the suds away with a damp cloth or paper towel.

6. Add small amounts of water to baking soda to make a paste for stuck-on spots, then dip your cloth in and scrub away.

A Microwave Cleaning Hack to Banish Tough Odors

What You’ll Need:

Tools:

• Bowl

Materials:

• Baking soda

Time needed: 2 hours

If you still smell the remnants of those leftover fish tacos from days ago, baking soda can rescue your nose and prevent those odors from tainting your next meal. Here’s what to do:

1. Thoroughly clean your microwave with any of the above methods to get rid of smelly residue.

2. Leave the door open for one hour to air out. 

3. If the odor persists, fill a bowl with baking soda. 

4. Place the bowl in the microwave with the door closed for at least an hour to absorb any lingering smells.