How To Clean The Microwave - The Easy Way!
Microwaves are one of those appliances that can get grubby really quickly. From splatters to spills, they see a lot of action - especially when you’re reheating leftovers or zapping a quick lunch.
Here’s a quick, natural way to get your microwave sparkling clean again with minimal effort!
What You'll Need To Clean The Microwave
- 1 lemon
- A microwave-safe bowl
- Water
- A cloth or sponge
- Bicarbonate of soda (optional - for stubborn smells)
Step-by-Step: Clean Your Microwave Naturally
1. Slice the lemon
Cut a lemon in half and pop both halves into a microwave-safe bowl filled halfway with water.
2. Microwave it
Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high for 5 minutes. The steam will loosen up dried-on food and freshen the inside with that lovely citrus scent.
3. Wait a moment
Leave the bowl in the microwave for a couple of minutes after the timer finishes - this gives the steam time to work its magic.
4. Wipe it clean
Carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot!). Then use a cloth or sponge to wipe down the inside of the microwave - door, ceiling, sides, turntable - everything should wipe off easily.
5. Tackle stubborn spots
If there are any stubborn greasy patches, dip your cloth in the lemon water or sprinkle a little bicarbonate of soda onto a damp cloth and scrub gently.
6. Clean the outside
Give the door, buttons, and handle a wipe too — especially if they get touched a lot during cooking.
Top Tip
Keep a lemon or vinegar solution in a spray bottle for quick freshen-ups between deep cleans — makes the whole kitchen smell cleaner too.
Done in 10 minutes!
A fresh, sparkling microwave without harsh chemicals - and it smells gorgeous too. Just the way we like it.
Microwave Cleaning FAQs
Ideally, once a week - or as soon as you spot spills or splatters. A quick weekly wipe stops grime from building up and keeps your microwave smelling fresh.
Yes! Just swap the lemon for 2 tablespoons of white vinegar in a bowl of water and microwave it the same way. It’s great for cutting through grease and neutralising odours.
Absolutely - as long as it’s a microwave-safe bowl. Never use anything metal or not marked as microwave-friendly.
Try adding a spoonful of bicarbonate of soda to the lemon or vinegar water before heating - or place an open dish of bicarb inside the microwave overnight to absorb lingering odours.
You can, but always double-check that it’s food-safe and suitable for microwaves. Natural methods like lemon or vinegar are gentler and leave no chemical residue.
Looking for more quick and practical kitchen cleaning solutions? Dive into our favourite posts like 10 Ways to Keep Kitchen Counters Clutter‑Free or How to Clean the Kitchen in 5 Minutes for easy routines that refresh your kitchen in no time.
Wendy is the creator of Daisies & Pie, a UK food blog sharing easy meals and home lifestyle tips since 2012
