Cleaning Day is the Best Day!

How to clean a microwave? Steam & sparkle in minutes

The microwave is one of the most frequently used appliances, making it prone to splatters, spills, and lingering food odors. Regular cleaning not only keeps it hygienic but also ensures it heats food efficiently and smells fresh.

Why does regular microwave cleaning matter?

  • Hygiene: Food splatters and residue can harbor bacteria and mold, contaminating new food.
  • Odor Removal: Lingering food odors can transfer to other foods, making them unpleasant.
  • Efficiency: A clean interior allows microwaves to bounce more effectively, ensuring even and faster cooking.
  • Prevent Damage: Burned-on food can be difficult to remove and, if left, can damage the microwave’s interior coating.

Tools & materials

  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • White vinegar
  • Water
  • Baking soda (optional)
  • Lemon or citrus peels (optional)
  • Clean sponges or microfiber cloths
  • Dish soap
  • Glass cleaner (for exterior)
  • Old toothbrush or small scrub brush (for crevices)

Inside cleaning methods

Vinegar steam trick

This is the easiest and most effective way to loosen caked-on food:

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of white vinegar. You can also add a few lemon slices or citrus peels for a fresh scent.
  2. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture comes to a rolling boil and the inside of the microwave is steamy and fogged up.
  3. Leave the door closed for another 5-10 minutes after the microwave turns off. This allows the steam to continue working its magic and loosen all the dried-on food.
  4. Carefully remove the hot bowl. Use a clean, damp sponge or microfiber cloth to wipe down the inside of the microwave. The loosened grime should come off easily.

Baking soda paste hack

For tougher, stubborn spots that the steam doesn’t fully loosen:

  1. Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste.
  2. Apply the paste directly to the stubborn stains.
  3. Let the paste sit for a few minutes (or up to an hour for very tough spots) to penetrate the grime.
  4. Gently scrub the spot with a damp sponge or a soft scrub brush.
  5. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Removing stubborn stains

If a stain is really stuck, try these:

  • Lemon Juice: For grease, cut a lemon in half and rub the cut side directly onto the stain. The acid helps cut through grease. Let it sit, then wipe clean.
  • Dish Soap: A drop of dish soap on a damp sponge can work wonders on greasy residue after steaming.
  • Plastic Scraper: For truly hardened bits, use a plastic scraper or old credit card to gently lift the loosened gunk, being careful not to scratch the surface.

Exterior care: glass cleaner for door & keypad

  1. Door and Keypad: Spray a small amount of glass cleaner or an all-purpose cleaner onto a clean microfiber cloth (never spray directly onto the keypad to avoid moisture damage).
  2. Wipe down the microwave door, including the window, and the keypad. Pay attention to fingerprints and smudges.
  3. For stainless steel exteriors, use a specialized stainless steel cleaner.

Turntable & vent cleaning

  • Turntable: Remove the glass turntable and its roller ring. Wash them in the sink with warm water and dish soap, just like regular dishes. Rinse and dry thoroughly before replacing.
  • Vent: For over-the-range microwaves, check the vent filter (usually located underneath or above the door). Most are removable and can be washed in warm, soapy water or placed in the dishwasher. Refer to your microwave’s manual for specific instructions on how to remove and clean it.

Odor removal & freshening

If odors persist even after cleaning:

  • Baking Soda Bowl: Place a small bowl of baking soda inside the microwave overnight to absorb lingering smells.
  • Coffee Grounds: A small bowl of used coffee grounds left inside overnight can also absorb odors.
  • Citrus: After cleaning, keep a bowl of lemon or orange peels in the microwave for a few hours (or overnight) to impart a fresh scent.

Cleaning frequency & quick maintenance

  • Frequency:
    • Quick Wipe-down: After every use, or at least daily, wipe up fresh splatters with a damp cloth.
    • Deep Clean: Aim for a deep clean (using the steam method) at least once a week, or more frequently if you use your microwave often or have lots of splatters.
  • Quick Maintenance:
    • Cover food to prevent splatters.
    • Wipe up spills immediately.

Don’t let a dirty microwave ruin your meal prep! Amazing Maids offers thorough kitchen appliance cleaning to keep your home sparkling. Get a free quote today!