How to Clean the Inside of Your Microwave Easily (6 Steps)

Have you ever opened your microwave and thought, “Wow, this needs some serious cleaning”? I know I have. Sometimes, old food splashes and smells just stick around no matter what. It can feel like a big job, right? But it doesn’t have to be that hard. In this article, we’ll explore how to clean the inside of a microwave in a simple, easy way.

First, remove the plate and any loose crumbs. Next, use a natural cleaner like lemon or vinegar with water. Heat it inside the microwave to loosen grime. Wipe with a soft cloth or sponge. Don’t forget corners and the door. Finally, rinse and dry everything well.

Remove the Microwave Plate and Loose Crumbs

The first thing to do is take out the glass plate. I always find some tiny crumbs hiding under it. It’s funny how food bits sneak there. Removing the plate makes cleaning easier and stops smears later. You can wash the plate in warm soapy water or even put it in the dishwasher if it’s safe.

Next, check the microwave floor and corners. Sometimes, small spills stick to the base. I like using a dry paper towel first to pick up loose crumbs. It feels satisfying, like giving a tiny sweep to your kitchen helper. Make sure you shake out the corners too. Those spots always hide little surprises.

After that, think about your microwave walls. Food splatters often stick there without us noticing. You can lightly brush off dry crumbs with a soft brush. I sometimes use an old toothbrush for tiny edges. It works perfectly and makes things neat before wet cleaning.

Finally, take a look at the microwave door. Don’t forget around the edges and hinges. Tiny crumbs can get stuck there and smell over time. I wipe it gently with a dry towel. Even this small step makes a big difference later.

• Remove the plate and wash it
• Sweep out crumbs from base and corners
• Brush off dry crumbs from walls and edges
• Wipe door edges gently

Make a Natural Cleaning Solution

I always use lemon or vinegar for cleaning. They are safe and smell fresh. You just need a bowl, water, and your choice of cleaner. I like cutting a lemon in half and squeezing it into water. It’s simple and feels a bit like a mini kitchen experiment.

Next, place the bowl in the microwave. Turn it on for a few minutes until steam fills the inside. Steam softens stuck food and makes it easy to wipe. I sometimes watch through the glass and smile at the bubbles. It feels a bit like magic.

After heating, leave the microwave door closed for a few minutes. This lets the steam work without rushing. I usually sip a cup of tea and come back. It’s amazing how much grime loosens without scrubbing hard.

Finally, remove the bowl carefully. It’s hot, so I always use a cloth or oven mitt. I sometimes tip the water gently to avoid spills. This small step makes wiping much faster and less messy.

• Use lemon or vinegar with water
• Heat in microwave until steamy
• Let steam sit for a few minutes
• Handle hot bowl carefully

Wipe the Microwave Walls and Ceiling

Once the steam has done its work, it’s time to wipe. I grab a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Start from the top and work down. This way, dirt doesn’t drip onto cleaned spots. I always feel a small sense of accomplishment at this stage.

Corners need extra attention. I like using a soft brush or even a cotton swab for tight spots. It’s funny how tiny edges can hold old food unnoticed. Wiping slowly helps me notice those details. It’s like cleaning with care, not just speed.

Don’t forget the back and sides. Some microwaves have vents inside that collect food splashes. I gently wipe these with a damp cloth. Sometimes I tilt the microwave plate out of the way for better access. It makes everything look much fresher quickly.

Finally, inspect your work. If you see spots, repeat the wipe with a bit of cleaning solution. I sometimes feel proud like I just did a mini kitchen makeover. Even small areas can make a big difference in smell and cleanliness.

• Wipe top down with soft cloth
• Clean corners and tight spots
• Wipe back and sides carefully
• Repeat if spots remain

Clean the Microwave Plate and Accessories

While the inside dries, focus on the plate and other removable parts. I usually wash the plate with warm soapy water. It’s simple, and the soap removes any leftover grease. I sometimes let it soak for a few minutes for stubborn stains.

If your microwave has a rotating ring or roller, clean that too. Food crumbs hide underneath these parts. I like using a damp cloth or a brush to reach the small spaces. It’s not fun to skip this because things can get noisy later.

After washing, rinse everything well to remove soap. I usually give the plate a quick dry with a clean towel. It’s funny how clean it looks after a few minutes. Even a small accessory can feel brand new.

Finally, put everything back carefully. Make sure the plate sits correctly on the ring. I always check the rotation before using the microwave. Little things like this prevent wobbling and make cooking smooth.

• Wash plate with warm soapy water
• Clean rotating ring or roller
• Rinse and dry thoroughly
• Replace carefully

Remove Odors and Freshen

Sometimes, microwaves smell even after cleaning. I use a small bowl of water with lemon or baking soda. Heat it for a few minutes to release fresh steam. I enjoy the smell; it’s like a mini kitchen spa.

Leave the door closed for a few minutes. The steam helps the smell fade naturally. I often open the door after and feel a noticeable freshness. It’s amazing how small tricks make a big difference.

For stubborn odors, I wipe the walls with a bit of vinegar water. Sometimes I even leave a slice of lemon inside overnight. Simple things like this make the microwave smell like new.

Finally, keep a regular routine. I clean small spills immediately. It prevents build-up and keeps odors away. It’s funny how easy it becomes once you do it often.

• Heat lemon or baking soda water
• Let steam sit to remove smell
• Wipe walls with vinegar if needed
• Maintain regular cleaning

Dry and Reassemble Everything

After cleaning and deodorizing, it’s time to dry. I use a clean towel or cloth to remove any moisture. I check corners and the door seals. This prevents mold and makes the microwave safe to use.

Next, make sure all parts are completely dry. I sometimes leave them on the counter for a few minutes. It’s worth the extra time to prevent slippery or sticky surfaces.

Then, reassemble the plate, ring, and any accessories. I make sure everything sits correctly. Little mistakes here can cause wobbling during use, and no one likes that.

Finally, give the inside a final glance. Everything should look shiny and fresh. I sometimes smile because it feels like a brand new appliance. Clean, fresh, and ready for use.

• Dry all surfaces thoroughly
• Let removable parts dry completely
• Reassemble carefully
• Check for any missed spots

Final Thoughts

Cleaning the inside of a microwave can feel big, but it’s really simple with the right steps. A little preparation, natural cleaners, and careful wiping make the task easy. Don’t forget corners, plate, and vents for a full clean. With a routine, it becomes fast and even a bit satisfying. Your microwave will look fresh, smell nice, and work better.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it safe to use vinegar in a microwave?

Yes, it is completely safe to use vinegar in a microwave. Just mix vinegar with water and heat it until it steams. The steam helps loosen grime. I usually let it sit for a few minutes before wiping. It works like magic on stains and odors. You don’t need strong chemicals. Even a small bowl of vinegar water cleans corners well and freshens the smell naturally.

Can I use lemon instead of vinegar?

Absolutely! Lemon works just as well. Cut a lemon in half, squeeze the juice into water, and heat in the microwave. The steam softens stuck food, and it leaves a fresh smell. Sometimes I leave a few lemon slices inside for extra freshness. It’s also gentle on the microwave surface, unlike strong cleaners that can leave residue.

Do I need to remove the microwave plate first?

Yes, it makes cleaning much easier. Plates can hide crumbs underneath, and washing them separately avoids spreading mess. I usually soak the plate if it has dried food. Removing it also allows better access to corners and walls. It’s a small step but saves time later and keeps everything cleaner.

Is it necessary to dry the microwave after cleaning?

Yes, drying is important. Moisture can lead to mold or smells if left inside. I use a clean towel and sometimes leave the door open for a few minutes. Drying ensures the microwave is ready to use safely. Even corners and small edges need attention to avoid sticky spots or damp smells.

Can baking soda remove odors?

Yes, baking soda is great for neutralizing smells. Place a small bowl of water with baking soda inside and heat it. The steam lifts odors and leaves a fresh smell. I sometimes leave it for a few minutes before wiping. It’s a simple, safe trick to keep your microwave smelling clean without chemicals.

Do I need special tools to clean corners?

Not really. A soft brush, cotton swab, or even an old toothbrush works perfectly. I use these to reach small edges and vents. They are simple and effective. These tools help remove hidden crumbs and prevent buildup that can cause bad smells.

Is it okay to use a dishwasher for the microwave plate?

Yes, if your plate is dishwasher safe. I sometimes use the dishwasher for convenience, especially for greasy plates. Otherwise, warm soapy water works just fine. Make sure to dry completely before putting it back to avoid water spots or slipping during rotation.

Can I clean my microwave without chemicals?

Definitely! Natural options like lemon, vinegar, or baking soda work well. Heat them in water to loosen grime and wipe with a cloth. It’s safe, cheap, and effective. Even stubborn stains come off with some patience and steam. No harsh chemicals needed, and your microwave smells fresh too.