Published on October 31st, 2022

Last updated on February 3rd, 2023

Cleaning the Microwave From A to Z

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
clean microwave with rag

A microwave is probably one of the most indispensable appliances in any modern kitchen. In the microwave, you can heat up in 5 minutes, which would take 20 minutes on the stove, and cook something simple and put the finished dish there, so it stays hot a little longer. Naturally, such frequent use causes a lot of dirt and grease. 

Cleaning the outside and, more importantly, the inside of the microwave is not that difficult. It’s essential to take precautions and use only the right and tested cleaning products. 

So, how to clean the inside and the outside of the microwave is read further in our article. We have prepared for you only the best cleaning methods.

How to Clean the Microwave? The Fast Way!

how clean microwave fast

To quickly clean the inside of the microwave, using any expensive purchased products is unnecessary. You can resort to the help of ordinary vinegar. This practical way will help you quickly and efficiently eliminate minor dirt and unpleasant odor. You will need the following:

  • 9% vinegar;
  • water;
  • a small container;
  • a microfiber cloth.

Step-by-step instructions on how to clean the microwave:

  • Mix 2 tablespoons of 9% vinegar and 2 cups of pure water in a small container.
  • Put the bowl with the mixture in the microwave.
  • Turn the microwave to full mode, and set the timer for 10 minutes.
  • After that, turn off the device and leave the container with the remedy inside for another 60 minutes so that all the acidic steam has time to settle on the inner surface of the device and remove yellowing, grease, soot, and other types of dirt.
  • Thoroughly wipe the inside of the device with a dry cloth, removing the remains of dissolved dirt.
  • Open the microwave door and leave the device to air out (the smell of vinegar should completely evaporate).

Now you know how to clean the inside of the microwave. Cleaning the outer surfaces is a little different, and you will not be able to do it with vinegar.

Cleaning With Citric Acid

Citric Acid clean microwave inside

Quickly and effectively cleaning the inside and outside of the microwave can also be done with citric acid. The method perfectly washes out all kinds of dirt, whether thick soot or fresh grease marks. You will need the following:

  • boiling water;
  • citric acid;
  • paper towels;
  • a small bowl.

How to clean:

  • Mix 500 ml of boiling water and 25-40 g of citric acid in a small bowl.
  • Put the bowl with the compound in the microwave.
  • Put it on maximum power and set the timer for 10 minutes.
  • After the allotted time, remove the container with the cleaning composition from the microwave.
  • Using paper towels, begin to remove the soaked grease and dirt gently.
  • To clean the outside of the microwave, dilute citric acid with water to form a thick mixture and gently rub the dirt.
  • Remove the excess with a paper towel.

Cleaning the Microwave With Baking Soda

Baking Soda to clean microwave

Another good option on how to clean the microwave is to resort to baking soda. The product is excellent for cleaning grease from the microwave effortlessly, and when combined with lemon peels, it also works as a “freshener.” You will need the following:

  • well-moistened rags;
  • baking soda;
  • a small container;
  • paper towels;
  • lemon peels.

How to clean:

  • Place damp towels on a glass disc, close the appliance, set the maximum power on display, and set the timer for 60 seconds.
  • After the allotted time, disconnect the oven from the network, and the same damp towels (pre-wring them) begin to wipe the device, removing softened dirt from the walls and doors.
  • Dilute two tablespoons of soda in a small amount of water, and wipe the inside and outside walls with this composition.
  • After that, wipe the device dry with paper towels.

You see, now you know another method how to clean the inside and outside of the microwave.

Sponge + Dishwashing Detergent

An ordinary dishwashing detergent can also help with grease traces, old carbon deposits, and other stains in the microwave. Yes, it’s a crude product in every home that can help you clean the microwave. You will need the following:

  • dishwashing sponge;
  • any dish detergent;
  • paper towels;
  • rubber gloves.

How to clean:

  • Wet the sponge and wring it slightly (so that no water drips from it). Wet it with dishwashing liquid.
  • Squeeze and squeeze the sponge a few times to whip the liquid into a foam.
  • Put the foaming sponge in the microwave, close it, and set the display to minimum power and the timer to 30 seconds. Turn the appliance on.
  • Use a clean sponge to remove all dissolved dirt from the internal surfaces of the appliance.
  • Then rub the outer walls well with a sponge and detergent.
  • After that, use paper towels to go over all the walls again, wiping off any remaining detergent and dirt.

Cleaning With Laundry Soap

How to clean the microwave will answer your ordinary laundry soap. It not only helps remove stale grease but also has a disinfecting effect.

How to clean:

  • Grate a bar of laundry soap on a grater.
  • Add the soap shavings to the water. Calculate the proportions by eye; you should end up with a rich soapy solution without pieces of soap.
  • Apply the composition to the inside and outside walls of the microwave and leave it for 45-60 minutes.
  • Remove the remains of the soap solution with a damp cloth (rinse the cloth in clean water as often as possible).
  • Open the door and leave the appliance to air out for a while (this will help remove the smell of soap from the inside).

Conclusion

You can clean the inside and outside of the microwave with items that are probably already in your home. If you follow the instructions above on how to clean the microwave, you can quickly and easily get rid of dirt, grease, and other stains. Choose the method that you like best and get to work!

But, it would be best if you remember about safety. Be sure to unplug the appliance before starting to clean it. In addition, do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives, as these can damage the microwave’s surface. And, of course, be careful with water inside the appliance.

Therefore, we recommend you follow all the instructions carefully and clean the microwave regularly to keep it in good condition and extend its service life.

FAQ

How to clean the microwave with baking soda?

Add two tablespoons of baking soda to a small amount of water, and wipe the inside and outside walls with this composition. After that, tap the device and dry it with paper towels.

Is it safe to clean the microwave with vinegar?

Yes, vinegar is a safe and effective way to clean the microwave. Just be sure to use diluted vinegar, and don’t leave it on the surfaces for too long.

What is the best way to clean a microwave?

The best way to clean a microwave depends on what you try to remove. Soap and water will do the trick if you’re trying to remove everyday dirt and grime. But, if you’re dealing with tougher stains, you may need to use a more robust solution.