How to Clean the Microwave Inside: Easy Tricks to Make It Sparkle

The microwave is one of the most used appliances in any kitchen. It's our savior for heating morning coffee, defrosting dinner at the last minute, or making popcorn. But with so much use, it's inevitable that soup splatters, grease residue, and bad odors take over its interior. Fortunately, you don't need expensive chemicals or hours of scrubbing to restore its shine. Learning how to clean a microwave inside is surprisingly easy and fast.

In this guide, we will teach you the most effective homemade tricks, using ingredients you already have in your pantry, to make your microwave look like new.

The Star Trick: Cleaning with Lemon or Vinegar Steam

This is the most popular and effective method to soften embedded dirt without any effort. The steam will do all the heavy lifting for you.

• What you need: A microwave-safe bowl, water, a lemon or white vinegar, and a cloth or sponge.

Steps to Follow:

1. Prepare the Mixture: Fill the bowl halfway with water. If using lemon, cut it in half, squeeze the juice into the water, and toss in the two halves as well. If using vinegar, add a good splash (about 3-4 tablespoons) to the water.
2. Heat at Max Power: Place the bowl in the center of the microwave plate. Heat it at maximum power for 3 to 5 minutes, until the water boils and you see the inside of the microwave filling with steam.
3. Let the Steam Act: This is the key step! Do not open the door when it finishes. Leave the bowl inside with the door closed for another 5 to 10 minutes. The trapped steam will soften all the grease and dried food residue.
4. Clean Effortlessly: Open the door and carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot). With a microfiber cloth or sponge, simply wipe the walls, ceiling, base, and door of the microwave. You'll see how the dirt comes off in one go.
5. Don't Forget the Plate: Remove the turntable and wash it in the sink like any other dish. Dry it well before putting it back.

Stubborn Stains or Burnt Residue? Use Baking Soda

If tough stains or burnt food remains persist after steam cleaning, baking soda is your best ally.

• Create a Paste: Mix a couple of tablespoons of baking soda with a little water to form a thick paste.
• Apply and Wait: Apply the paste directly onto the burnt or embedded stains. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
• Scrub Gently: With a sponge or damp cloth, scrub the areas with the paste. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that won't scratch the interior.
• Rinse and Dry: Remove all baking soda residue with a clean, damp cloth and dry the entire interior thoroughly.

The microwave is a powerful tool. Although we use it for cleaning, it is important to remember its limits and avoid dangerous practices. For example, never try to dry clothes in the microwave, as it can cause a fire.

How to Clean the Outside and Eliminate Bad Odors

• Exterior Cleaning: For the outside, simply wipe with a damp cloth and a little all-purpose cleaner or soapy water. If it's stainless steel, use a specific product and wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid marks.
• Goodbye Bad Odors: If a smell persists after cleaning (burnt popcorn, for example), leave a container with used coffee grounds or a small bowl with baking soda inside the microwave overnight with the door closed. They will absorb the remaining odors.

Frequently Asked Questions about Microwave Cleaning

Keeping your microwave clean is not just about aesthetics, but also hygiene. With these tricks, you no longer have an excuse to let dirt accumulate. Try them and be amazed by the result!