Wondering how to clean a microwave with vinegar without harsh scrubbing or toxic cleaners? You’re not alone. Many people search how do you clean a microwave or how to clean a microwave oven every day—and for good reason.
Spills, splatters, and lingering odors build up fast. But the good news? You can restore your microwave with natural ingredients you already have at home.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to clean your microwave with vinegar, how to clean inside of a microwave, and how to get rid of burnt smell in a microwave—with simple, step-by-step instructions anyone can follow.
🧽 How Do You Clean a Microwave Quickly and Naturally?
The easiest way to clean your microwave is with steam. That’s right—just water, vinegar, or lemon can break down food residue and odors.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of white vinegar (or a sliced lemon)
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Sponge or soft cloth
🔥 How to Clean Your Microwave with Vinegar (Step-by-Step)
If you’ve searched how to clean a microwave oven or how can I clean a microwave, this is one of the most effective, low-effort methods out there.
- Combine vinegar and water
In a microwave-safe bowl, mix 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of vinegar. - Microwave for 5 minutes
Place the bowl in the microwave and run it on high. This creates steam that loosens gunk inside. - Let it sit
Wait another 2–3 minutes before opening the door. The steam will continue working its magic. - Wipe down the interior
Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe everything clean—no scrubbing needed! - Remove burnt smells
For stubborn odors, add a drop of lemon juice or a few lemon slices to your vinegar mixture.
✅ Bonus Tip: For cleaning the inside of the microwave, remove the turntable and wash it separately with dish soap for a full refresh.
💨 How to Get Rid of Burnt Smell in a Microwave
Burnt popcorn, anyone? Here’s how to get rid of burnt smell in a microwave fast:
- Steam clean with vinegar and lemon juice
- Leave an open box of baking soda inside overnight
- Place a bowl of coffee grounds or activated charcoal in the microwave to absorb lingering odors
These natural deodorizers neutralize strong smells without any chemicals.
🧼 Other Microwave Cleaning Methods
Looking for more ideas on how you can clean a microwave?
✨ Lemon and Water Steam
Slice a lemon, squeeze juice into water, and microwave for 3–5 minutes. The steam cuts through grease and leaves a fresh citrus scent.
✨ Baking Soda Paste
Mix baking soda with a little water to create a paste. Apply to stubborn spots, let sit for 5 minutes, then wipe clean.
✨ Dish Soap Method
Fill a bowl with warm water and dish soap, microwave it for 1–2 minutes, then use a sponge to wipe down the softened mess.
🔗 Expert Tips to Keep Your Microwave Clean
- Cover dishes to prevent splatter
- Wipe up spills immediately
- Deep clean weekly using the vinegar steam method
- Clean the door, buttons, and handle regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap
🤓 Final Thoughts: How Can You Clean a Microwave Without Stress?
Whether you’re googling how can you clean a microwave or looking for how to clean your microwave with vinegar, this guide has you covered. These natural, no-scrub methods make microwave cleaning a breeze—and keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
By following these simple steps, you’re not just keeping your microwave clean—you’re extending its life, reducing germs, and creating a safer cooking environment.
More Helpful Cleaning How-To’s
- Cleaning Hacks for the Whole House
- Does Baking Soda Clean Carpet? Find Out How!
- 9 Kitchen Cleaning Hacks to Help You Save Time & Money
- How to Clean Hard Water Stains from Glass Shower Doors Fast
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How to Clean a Microwave Easily
How to clean a microwave easily using natural methods like vinegar, lemon, or baking soda. Learn quick, no-scrub tips to remove odors, stains, and burnt smells from inside your microwave.
Materials
- water
- vinegar
- baking soda or lemon juice
Tools
- sponge or cloth
Instructions
- Mix 1 cup water + 1 tbsp vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl
Microwave for 5 minutes
Let steam sit for 2 more minutes
Wipe down with sponge or cloth
Notes
For odors, add lemon juice or baking soda
About Thirty Something Super Mom
My journey started after a Crohn's disease diagnosis, inspiring a commitment to well-being. This site shares my distinctive approach to healthy living with my collection of nutritious recipes that boast authentic flavors, mimicking the indulgence of traditional dishes. I love sharing guilt free recipes for low carb, keto, gluten-free, paleo, and the specific carbohydrate diet. I also share tips on natural living, including homemade cleaners and cleaning hacks. I also share my experience as a veterinary technician and pet groomer, to integrate pet health tips, homemade dog food recipes, and grooming insights to ensure your pets thrive.
Guess what I’m doing tonight when I get home? Can’t wait to try this on my messy microwave!
Good luck! It was quite a mind blowing experience. I could’nt believe how well it worked.
whoa, that was cool!
Fantastic information. You are so right that there is nothing better than vinegar steam trick. My mom taught me to use it. I am so grateful. Thank you for sharing it. Best regards!
I definitely need to try this! Thanks for sharing.
I never tried using vinegar solution to clean my microwave. You’ve got some really good suggestions here. Thank you
It’s time to get our microwave cleaned! I’ve never thought of using lemon juice.
I feel like microwaves have so much splatter, so this is a seriously helpful post! it’s one of those things that, unlike pots and pans, do not get cleaned as often as they should!
We have a built-in microwave that sits next to our oven, and thankfully as we don’t use it all that much it doesn’t get too messy. It’s good to know there’s an easy way to clean it though, so I’ll have to try this soon x
Our microwave is clean but it does need a bit of love I guess! I can’t wait to try out this, I am actually very excited about it.
Wow so easy to clean! Who knew it was this simple…thanks for sharing!
I will definitely try these methods, the microwave is one of those jobs I find a chore but these sound great cleaning fixes
Easy and effective is my favorite cleaning combo. Happy to have this trick in my arsenal.
Thank you for reminding me about using vinegar which is a natural way to clean. I used to clean using this method some time back but forgot about it till I read your post