How to Clean a Microwave Oven?

How to clean a microwave is a common question for busy homeowners because food splatters, grease, and odors build up fast. The good news is that you don’t need harsh chemicals or expensive cleaners to get results.

You can clean a microwave naturally in under 10 minutes using simple household items like vinegar, lemon, and baking soda. These methods loosen stuck-on food, remove odors, and leave the interior fresh and safe for everyday use.

In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step microwave cleaning methods that work for light messes, heavy grease, and stubborn smells. Each method is easy to follow, chemical-free, and safe for regular cleaning.

Quick Microwave Cleaning Summary

• Best method: Vinegar steam cleaning

• Time needed: 5–10 minutes

• Safe for daily use: Yes

• Chemical-free: Yes

• Best for odors: Lemon steam + baking soda overnight

• Best for stuck-on stains: Baking soda paste

  
  

Our Natural Cleaning Philosophy

We believe in cleaning methods that are safe for kids, pets, and the environment. That means ditching bleach sprays and toxic chemicals. Instead, we use natural household staples like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon.

Why? Because they’re powerful, affordable, and eco-friendly. A splash of vinegar can cut grease faster than most commercial sprays. Baking soda eliminates stubborn odors. And lemon? It leaves your microwave smelling like a fresh New Jersey farmer’s market.

This philosophy is what we bring to every cleaning service. It’s about protecting your home, your health, and the planet.

What You Need to Clean a Microwave Naturally

Most homes already have everything needed. Grab:

• Microwave-safe bowl (glass or ceramic)

• Microfiber cloth or soft sponge

• White vinegar

• Lemon (optional but great for smells)

• Baking soda

• Dish soap (for the turntable)

• Paper towels (for quick cleans)

  
  

How Often Should You Clean Your Microwave?

If you’ve ever opened your microwave and thought, “I’ll clean it tomorrow,” you’re not alone. But the truth is, waiting makes things worse.

• Quick wipe-down: Do it at least once a week.

• Deep clean: Every 2–3 weeks, especially if you use it daily.

• Spills: Wipe them immediately to prevent staining and bacteria buildup.

  
  

Think of it like dental hygiene: the longer you wait, the harder the cleanup. By keeping a simple routine, you’ll save time and effort, and your microwave will always look (and smell) fresh.

How to Clean a Microwave Naturally

If you are not sure where to start, steam cleaning is the easiest and most effective method. It is also the same foundational approach used in many professional home cleaning services because it loosens buildup without damaging surfaces.

Steam works by softening dried food splatters, grease, and stuck-on residue so they wipe away easily without heavy scrubbing or harsh chemicals.

Natural steam cleaning is also safer for your kitchen. It avoids strong fumes, does not leave chemical residue on surfaces that touch food, and is gentle on the microwave’s interior coating and seals.

You can clean a microwave naturally using simple ingredients you already have at home. Vinegar is best for cutting grease and breaking down tough buildup, while lemon is excellent for removing odors and leaving the microwave smelling fresh.

Both options rely on steam to do most of the work, saving you time and effort while delivering reliable results.

Step-by-Step Natural Cleaning Methods That Work

1. The Vinegar Steam Method

This is our go-to method for tough stains and grease.

Here’s how to do it:

• Mix 1 cup water + 2 tablespoons vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl.

• Optional: add a drop of lemon juice or essential oil for fragrance.

• Heat on high for 5 minutes.

• Leave the door closed for another 10 minutes.

• Wipe down with a microfiber cloth.

  
  

The steam softens dried food, making it effortless to wipe away. No scrubbing, no stress.

2. The Lemon Fresh Steam

If you love that fresh, citrusy scent, this method is perfect.

Steps:

• Cut a lemon in half and squeeze it into 1 cup of water.

• Drop the lemon halves into the bowl.

• Microwave for 3–5 minutes.

• Let it sit for 2–10 minutes to allow the steam to work.

• Wipe with a cloth.

  
  

Not only does this remove grime, but it leaves your microwave smelling like a clean kitchen in springtime.

3. Baking Soda for Stubborn Stains

Sometimes vinegar and lemon aren’t enough, especially if it’s been months since your last clean. That’s when baking soda comes in.

Steps:

• Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste.

• Apply it directly to stubborn spots.

• Let it sit for 5 minutes.

• Wipe with a damp sponge.

  
  

You can also microwave a bowl of water with 2 tablespoons of baking soda for 3 minutes to loosen odors and dirt.

4. The Damp Paper Towel Trick

For those quick touch-ups when company is on the way:

• Place a few wet paper towels in the microwave.

• Heat on high for 2 minutes.

• Carefully use the same towels to wipe away loosened debris.

  
  

It’s simple, effective, and takes less than 5 minutes.

5. Dishwasher Tablet Hack

Want a professional-level clean without calling in the pros? Try this:

• Fill a microwave-safe bowl with hot water.

• Drop in a dishwasher tablet (unscented).

• Microwave for 3–5 minutes.

• Let it sit another 5 minutes before wiping down.

  
  

This trick breaks down grease and food residue like nothing else.

Removing Stubborn Microwave Stains with Baking Soda

If steam loosens most of the mess but a few spots remain, use baking soda.

Baking soda paste method

1. Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to make a paste.

2. Apply the paste to stubborn stains.

3. Let it sit for 5 minutes.

4. Wipe with a damp sponge.

5. Dry with a clean cloth.

Baking soda odor boost (optional)

Microwave a bowl of water with 1–2 tablespoons baking soda for 2–3 minutes, then wipe down.

The Damp Paper Towel Trick for Quick Touch-Ups

If you need to clean fast before guests arrive, use this quick method.

Steps

1. Wet a few paper towels and wring them slightly.

2. Place them in the microwave.

3. Heat for 1–2 minutes.

4. Use the warm towels to wipe food splatters right away.

This is not a deep clean, but it works well for light messes.

Dishwasher Tablet Method (Optional Deep Clean)

This method is helpful when grease buildup is heavy and the microwave has not been cleaned in a long time.

It is often included as part of deep cleaning inclusions because it breaks down stubborn residue that regular steam cleaning may not fully remove.

Steps

1. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with hot water.

2. Drop in one unscented dishwasher tablet.

3. Microwave for 2–3 minutes (watch closely).

4. Let it sit for 5 minutes.

5. Wipe the interior clean.

If you are sensitive to fragrance, choose unscented tablets and rinse your cloth well.

Do Not Forget the Turntable and Exterior

A microwave looks clean inside, but still feels dirty if the tray and buttons are grimy.

Turntable tray

• Remove it and wash with warm dish soap, or place it in the dishwasher.

Roller ring (if your microwave has one)

• Wipe it clean and remove crumbs underneath it.

Control panel

• Use a lightly damp cloth only.

• Avoid spraying directly on buttons.

Exterior door and handle

• Use mild dish soap and water to remove fingerprints and grease.

How to Get Rid of Microwave Odors

If the inside looks clean but still smells bad, odor is usually trapped in tiny food residue or dried spills.

Try this simple routine:

1. Steam clean with lemon or vinegar.

2. Wipe everything dry.

3. Place an open bowl of baking soda inside overnight.

If the smell comes back quickly, check the turntable area and the door seal for hidden buildup.

Microwave Cleaning Safety Tips

Avoid common mistakes that can damage your microwave or create fumes.

• Do not use bleach or ammonia inside a microwave

• Do not scrub with steel wool or abrasive pads

• Do not use metal bowls or foil

• Let steam cool for a moment before reaching inside

• Always unplug if you are cleaning around vents or the back panel

  
  

Shared Microwave Hygiene (For Offices & Families)

If you live in a big household or share an office microwave, cleanliness becomes even more important. Studies show shared microwaves are some of the dirtiest appliances around.

Here are a few hygiene tips:

• Always cover your food before reheating.

• Wipe down after every use.

• Create a weekly cleaning schedule (especially in offices).

  
  

A little consistency prevents big messes, and avoids those awkward “who left this mess?” conversations.

Quick Daily Maintenance Tips

Want to avoid deep cleans altogether? Stick to these habits:

• Cover food with a microwave lid.

• Wipe small spills immediately.

• Leave the door open for a few minutes after cooking to reduce odors.

• Place a bowl of baking soda inside overnight to absorb smells.

  
  

These small habits add up, making your microwave nearly self-cleaning.

Daily Habits That Keep Your Microwave Clean Longer

Daily habits make a big difference in keeping your microwave clean longer and reducing the need for deep cleaning. Covering food with a microwave lid helps prevent splatters, while wiping spills immediately keeps grease from hardening.

Leaving the door open for a minute after heating allows moisture and odors to escape, which helps prevent lingering smells. A quick weekly wipe-down also stops grease from building up, making your microwave easier to maintain with less effort overall.

Keeping up with regular kitchen maintenance helps, but it is only one part of overall home care. Many homeowners notice the benefits of residential cleaning when routine tasks like appliance cleaning, surface sanitizing, and odor control are handled consistently and correctly.

A clean kitchen supports better hygiene, reduces bacteria buildup, and makes everyday cooking more enjoyable.

When schedules get busy, choosing the right home cleaning options can make a big difference. From targeted kitchen cleanings to full-home maintenance, having reliable support helps keep your living space healthy without added stress.

A Cleaner Microwave for a Healthier Kitchen

Keeping your microwave clean is a small task that makes a big difference in your kitchen.

Using natural methods like steam, vinegar, lemon, and baking soda helps protect your food, your appliance, and your indoor air quality while keeping cleanup simple and safe. With regular care, your microwave stays fresh, odor-free, and ready for daily use.

At Burrini & Daughters Private Home Cleaning, we bring this same attention to detail and safe cleaning approach to every home we service. Our team understands where grease, bacteria, and buildup hide in kitchens, and we know how to clean them properly without cutting corners.

When everyday upkeep starts to feel overwhelming, having experienced professionals makes all the difference.

If you want your kitchen cleaned thoroughly and correctly, request a free quote today and let Burrini & Daughters Private Home Cleaning handle the hard work for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is vinegar safe for cleaning a microwave?

Yes. Vinegar is non-toxic and food-safe. When used with steam, it loosens grime and cuts grease without harsh chemicals.

How do you remove burnt smells from a microwave?

Steam clean with lemon or vinegar, then leave a bowl of baking soda inside overnight to absorb lingering odors.

How long does it take to clean a microwave?

A quick clean takes 5 minutes. A deep clean usually takes 15–20 minutes depending on buildup.

Why does my microwave still smell after cleaning?

Odors can hide under the turntable, around the door seal, or in tiny splatters you missed. Steam again and use baking soda overnight.

Can I use scented cleaners in a microwave?

It is better to avoid them. Scented sprays can leave residues and strong odors. Natural methods are safer and cleaner.