How to Clean a Microwave in 5 Minutes

Splatters on the ceiling, dried sauce on the walls and a smell that will not go away: the microwave is one of the dirtiest spots in many kitchens. The good news is that learning how to clean a microwave takes only five minutes and a bowl of water. Steam does most of the work.

Here is how to clean a microwave the easy way, with lemon or vinegar, plus tips to keep it fresh.

What You Need

• A microwave-safe bowl
• Water
• One lemon or two tablespoons of white vinegar
• A sponge or microfiber cloth
• Dish soap for the turntable

How to Clean a Microwave in 5 Steps

1. Fill a Bowl With Water

Pour about one cup of water into a microwave-safe bowl.

2. Add Lemon or Vinegar

Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into the water, then drop in the halves. Or add two tablespoons of white vinegar. Lemon leaves a fresh smell, and vinegar is great for grease.

3. Steam for Three Minutes

Heat the bowl on high for about three minutes, until the water boils and the window steams up. Leave the door closed for two more minutes so the steam can soften the dried food.

4. Wipe It Clean

Carefully remove the bowl, as it will be hot. Take out the turntable. Wipe the ceiling, walls and floor with a sponge. Most of the mess will come off with one pass. Dip the sponge in the warm lemon water for stubborn spots.

5. Clean the Turntable and Door

Wash the turntable in warm soapy water, dry it and put it back. Wipe the inside and outside of the door and the buttons.

How Often to Clean a Microwave

Wipe up spills right away, and follow these steps on how to clean a microwave once a week if you use it every day. Add it to your weekly kitchen cleaning checklist so it never gets forgotten.

Tips to Keep Your Microwave Clean

• Cover food with a microwave-safe lid or a paper towel.
• Wipe small spills while they are still warm.
• Leave the door open for a few minutes after cooking to let moisture out.
• Place a small bowl of baking soda inside overnight to absorb smells.

Common Mistakes When You Clean a Microwave

The biggest mistake is scrubbing dried food without steaming it first, which takes longer and can scratch the surface. Another is using metal scrubbers or harsh sprays near the vents. A third is forgetting the outside: handles and buttons collect fingerprints every day. Once you know how to clean a microwave with steam, there is no need for strong chemicals. If your oven needs attention too, see how to clean an oven, and finish with a quick kitchen reset.

Lemon or Vinegar: Which Is Better?

Both work well when you learn how to clean a microwave with steam. Lemon is gentle and leaves a fresh smell, so it is perfect for weekly cleaning. Vinegar cuts through grease better, so use it when the microwave has not been cleaned for a while. If you are learning how to clean a microwave for the first time after months of splatters, start with vinegar, then finish with a lemon steam for a fresh smell.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to clean a microwave?

Steam a bowl of water with lemon or vinegar for three minutes, wait two minutes, then wipe.

How do I get rid of a bad smell in my microwave?

Use the lemon steam method, then leave a small bowl of baking soda inside overnight.

Can I use vinegar to clean a microwave?

Yes. Two tablespoons of white vinegar in a cup of water works very well on grease.

How do I clean a microwave with baked-on stains?

Steam it twice, then use a paste of baking soda and water on a soft sponge.

Try It Today

Now you know how to clean a microwave in five minutes. Put a bowl of lemon water inside today and enjoy a fresh, clean microwave in less time than it takes to make tea.

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