How to Clean Inside a Microwave
Master how to clean inside a microwave safely with steam, gentle cleaners, and common kitchen items. This guide covers prep, stain removal, odor control, and simple maintenance to keep your appliance pristine.
By following these steps, you will safely refresh the microwave interior without harsh chemicals. In 6 simple actions, you’ll unplug, remove the tray, steam-clean with water and vinegar or lemon, wipe down, rinse, and dry before reassembly. This approach minimizes mess, prevents residue, and leaves the appliance smelling fresh.
Why cleaning the inside of a microwave matters
If you cook often, the microwave accumulates splatters, grease, and lingering odors. Cleaning the inside of a microwave regularly prevents burnt smells from transferring to food and ensures even heating. According to Cleaning Tips, a clean microwave not only performs better but lasts longer. A simple routine uses steam and a mild cleanser to avoid harsh chemicals while effectively lifting grime from walls, the ceiling, and corners. The goal is to remove visible stains and invisible residue that attract bacteria and cause off-flavors. If you're wondering how to clean inside of microwave, this quick routine keeps the interior spotless with minimal effort. In this guide, you will learn a practical approach suitable for most household microwaves, including compact units and larger models. The plan emphasizes safety, minimal mess, and fast results, so you can get back to your day with a fresh appliance.
Tools & Materials
- Microwave-safe bowl(Glass or ceramic; fill with water and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice)
- Water(Plain tap water is fine for steam cleaning)
- White vinegar or lemon juice(Vinegar is optional if you prefer lemon aroma)
- Mild dish soap(For wiping down exterior and interior after steaming)
- Soft microfiber cloth(Non-abrasive to avoid scratching surfaces)
- Sponge or non-scratch scrub pad(For stubborn spots; avoid metal scrub pads)
- Paper towels or cloth towels(For quick drying and blotting)
- Turntable protector or plate(Removable tray; check for cracks before reusing)
- Old towels or mats(Protect countertop from spills)
Steps
Estimated time: 25-35 minutes
- 1
Unplug and remove interior components
Power off the appliance and unplug it from the outlet. Remove the glass turntable and any accessories. This makes every surface accessible for thorough cleaning and prevents accidental activation.
Tip: Keep the tray and accessories in a safe place to avoid misplacing parts. - 2
Prepare the cleaning solution
Fill your microwave-safe bowl with water and add a splash of white vinegar or lemon juice. This creates a gentle steam that loosens baked-on grime without harsh chemicals.
Tip: If you skip vinegar, you can also use plain water with a drop of dish soap on the sponge later. - 3
Steam the interior
Place the bowl inside and microwave on high for 3–5 minutes until the water boils and steams the interior. Let it stand for 2–3 minutes to soften residue.
Tip: If your microwave is particularly dirty, repeat once more with fresh water and vinegar. - 4
Wipe down the interior surfaces
Carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot) and wipe the interior walls, ceiling, and door with a damp microfiber cloth. Use a sponge on stubborn spots, applying gentle pressure.
Tip: Avoid excessive force on the door seal to prevent damage. - 5
Clean the turntable and exterior
Wash the glass turntable with mild soap and warm water. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap, drying thoroughly to prevent streaks.
Tip: Dry in circular motions to reduce water spots. - 6
Rinse and dry
Wipe all surfaces again with a clean damp cloth to remove any soap or vinegar residues. Dry completely with a microfiber cloth or paper towels before reassembling.
Tip: A completely dry interior helps prevent odors from forming. - 7
Reassemble and test
Replace the turntable and accessories. Run a quick 30-second water cycle to ensure there are no leftover residues and that the surface is clean and dry.
Tip: If any odors linger, place a fresh lemon slice inside for a quick neutralizer.
Questions & Answers
Is it safe to use vinegar to clean a microwave?
Yes, diluted vinegar is a common, safe cleaning agent for microwaves. It creates steam that loosens grime without damaging components when used properly. Rinse and dry thoroughly after cleaning.
Vinegar is safe when diluted and used with steam. Rinse well and dry before using the microwave again.
Can I use lemon juice instead of vinegar?
Lemon juice works similarly to vinegar for steam cleaning and leaves a fresh scent. It’s also acidic enough to help dissolve residue when heated, but you should still rinse and dry the interior.
Yes, lemon juice is a good alternative to vinegar for steam cleaning.
How often should I clean the inside of my microwave?
Aim for a quick wipe-down weekly if you use the microwave daily. A more thorough interior cleaning every 2–4 weeks helps maintain performance and odor control.
Cleaning weekly or every few weeks helps keep it fresh.
What should I do if there’s a burnt smell after cleaning?
Boil a small cup of water with a slice of lemon for a few minutes, then wipe the interior again. If odors persist, repeat the steam clean and check for hidden splatters.
If a burnt smell remains, repeat the steam cleaning and wipe more thoroughly.
Is it safe to use a sponge or cloth dampened with soap inside the microwave?
A damp cloth with a little mild soap can be used on the exterior and occasionally on the interior, but always rinse with a damp fresh cloth and dry well to avoid soap residue.
Yes, but rinse and dry to remove soap.
Can I use bleach to sanitize the microwave interior?
Bleach is not recommended for interior microwave cleaning. Stick to water, vinegar or lemon, and ensure thorough rinsing and drying to avoid fumes.
Bleach is not recommended; use gentler cleaners and rinse well.
The Essentials
- Clean interior regularly to prevent smells and uneven heating
- Use steam with water and vinegar/lemon for safe, chemical-free cleaning
- Always unplug before cleaning and dry thoroughly before use
- Keep turntable and accessories separate for thorough sanitation
