How to Clean a Microwave with Vinegar, Lemon, and Steam
This simple method uses steam from vinegar and lemon to loosen grime, grease, and spills inside your microwave. In just minutes, you’ll have a sparkling clean appliance without harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing.
Servings: 1 clean microwave
Cost: $1
Equipment
- Microwave-safe glass bowl or measuring cup
- Oven mitts or potholders
- Wooden spoon, chopstick, or skewer
- Sponge, cloth, or paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 cup white vinegar or 1–2 lemons
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Microwave: Remove any items from the microwave, but leave the glass tray and rotating piece inside.
- Mix the Cleaning Solution: In a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of white vinegar (or the juice of 1–2 lemons), and throw the lemon rinds in too. Stir if using lemon juice.
- Add a Safety Stick: Place a wooden spoon, chopstick, or skewer into the bowl to prevent superheating (which can cause a dangerous microwave explosion).
- Steam It: Place the bowl into the microwave and heat on high for 5–10 minutes. The time will vary depending on how dirty your microwave is.
- Carefully Remove the Bowl: Use oven mitts or potholders to take out the bowl. The microwave should be filled with steam, which will have loosened the grime.
- Wipe Down the Inside: While the microwave is still hot, use a sponge, cloth, or paper towel to wipe down the interior surfaces (walls, vents, floor, and door).
- Clean the Glass Tray: Take the glass tray and rotating piece out, clean them in the sink, wipe dry, and place them back in the microwave.
Notes
If your microwave is extra dirty, feel free to repeat the process, or leave the solution to steam for a bit longer (just don’t let the bowl dry out).
This method works best on moderate buildup and regular cleaning. For tough stains, you may need to use a little extra elbow grease.
Safety Tip: Be cautious of superheating. Never microwave just water or vinegar without a wooden stir stick or something non-metallic in the bowl. Superheating occurs when water heats beyond its boiling point without forming bubbles, and when disturbed, it can cause the liquid to explode. To avoid this, always place a wooden spoon, chopstick, or skewer in your solution before microwaving.
