If you see food splatters and unpleasant odors in your microwave oven, it needs a thorough cleaning.
A dirty microwave affects performance and can also be a health hazard due to bacteria buildup.
This article will walk you through easy steps to clean your microwave oven’s interior and exterior. Following these tips will keep it running efficiently and smelling fresh.
Ready to make your microwave shine again?
7 Easy Steps to Clean a Microwave Oven
Preparation Before Cleaning
First, gather all the cleaning supplies you’ll need. Next, unplug your microwave for safety.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Collect a microwave-safe container, water, dish soap, and a soft cloth or sponge. If you prefer natural solutions, grab vinegar or lemon juice as well. Bicarb soda is excellent for extra cleaning power.
Consider stainless steel cleaner spray if your microwave has metal parts. Microfiber cloths are perfect for wiping down surfaces without scratching them. These supplies will help keep your microwave looking new and smelling fresh.
2. Unplug the Microwave
Unplugging your microwave stops electrical shock risks. This simple task lets you clean without fear of accidental activation. Most microwaves have a control lock feature for touch controls.
Activate this to prevent any unexpected starts while scrubbing. Only begin cleaning after ensuring the turntable is completely cool to avoid shattering it.
This step helps you avoid injury and keeps your household safe. It’s essential for safety and ease of cleaning, ensuring no buttons get pressed by mistake during the process.
Cleaning the Interior
Start by taking out the microwave plate. Wipe away any loose crumbs or food bits.
3. Removing Food Particles
Heat 1 cup of water in a microwave-safe container for 3 to 4 minutes. This will create steam and soften any heavy buildup inside the microwave. Adding one tablespoon of vinegar can make cleaning easier.
Use a soft cloth dipped in soapy water to wipe down the interior. Focus on spots where food particles stick to the walls and ceiling. Rinse out your clothes regularly to prevent the spread of grime.
Make sure every corner is clean before moving on to harder stains.
4. Removing Stubborn Stains
Stubborn stains can make your microwave look dirty. To tackle these, create a paste using water and bicarbonate of soda. Apply the paste to the stain and scrub gently with a soft cloth.
This method cleans without scratching.
For greasy spots, use dish soap mixed with warm water. Dip a cloth in soapy water, wring it out, and wipe down the interior surfaces. For stainless steel microwaves, rub in the direction of the metal’s grain to avoid streaks.
5. Use Natural Cleaning Solutions: Vinegar and Lemon
Mix 1 cup of water with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the mixture for 2 to 5 minutes on high until it boils, then leave the door closed for another five minutes.
The steam will loosen stubborn stains and sticky residue inside your microwave.
After that, wipe down the interior using a damp cloth to remove any softened grime. Both vinegar and lemon are excellent natural cleaning products that help cut through grease and kill bacteria without harsh chemicals.
This method keeps your cooking space clean and fresh-smelling while safe for dishwasher-safe parts like glass turntables.
Cleaning the Exterior
Cleaning the exterior keeps your microwave looking good. Use a soft cloth and gentle cleaner for best results.
6. Wiping Down the Door and Control Panel
Unplug the microwave for safety. Wipe the door with a soft cloth or sponge dipped in dish soap and water. For touch controls, activate the control lock to prevent accidental activation.
Use a glass cleaner for glass controls and dry with a soft cloth. Make sure you clean around the edges where grime can build up. This will keep your microwave looking shiny and new.
7. Cleaning the Microwave Vent
Detach the vent cover from your microwave. A push or pull might do the trick, but check the user manual to see if it feels stuck. Dust and grease can build up there, reducing efficiency.
Use a damp cloth with mild soap to wipe down the vent cover. Remove any grime thoroughly. For tough spots, an old toothbrush works well to scrub away dirt. Rinse and dry thoroughly before reattaching it.
Dealing with Odors
Microwave ovens can trap foul smells. To eliminate them, use natural cleaners like baking soda and lemon juice.
Eliminating Unpleasant Smells
Eliminate unpleasant smells in your microwave with simple kitchen items. Mix a cup of water with two tablespoons of vinegar and heat it for five minutes. The steam will loosen grime, and the vinegar will help neutralize odors.
For a more pleasant scent, use lemon instead. Cut a lemon in half and place it in a bowl filled halfway with water. Heat for three minutes. To add a touch of sweetness to the fresh smell, mix one teaspoon of vanilla extract into a cup of water and heat it for one minute.
Using Baking Soda for Freshness
Sprinkle several tablespoons of baking soda into a small, microwave-safe dish filled with water. Microwave the mixture for 5 minutes to eliminate unpleasant smells. Let the dish cool before taking it out.
Wipe the microwave’s interior with a sponge or soft cloth. The steam from the solution will loosen any stuck-on food particles and help clean microwave surfaces more easily.
Maintenance Tips
Don’t let your microwave get too dirty. Clean it regularly to keep it in good shape.
Preventing Future Buildup
Wipe down the microwave every few days. This quick task prevents food residue from building up. Cooked-on splatters can absorb microwave energy, slowing cooking times.
Cover your dishes with a lid or paper towel before heating. This stops spills and keeps the microwave clean longer. Check range hoods to ensure they work well, as they help reduce steam buildup inside the kitchen area.
Regular Cleaning Schedule
Clean your microwave once a week. This helps prevent food from sticking and stains from setting in. If you use the microwave a lot, consider cleaning it more often.
After large spills or splatters, clean the mess right away. This maintains cleanliness and prevents bad smells from forming. Keep a schedule so your microwave stays fresh and works well daily.
The Bottom Line
Keep your microwave clean to ensure it works well. Regular cleaning means fewer food bits inside, keeping smells away. Use simple items like vinegar and lemon for a natural clean. Please take out the turntable and wash it separately.
Wipe down the outside, too, especially the door and control panel. Stick to a weekly schedule to avoid tough stains later.
