Have you ever reheated something and been overwhelmed with the smell of burnt food? If you don’t know the most effective ways for how to clean the inside of a microwave, it might seem like you’re destined to a life of sorry stenches. Not to worry, though. We’re here to give you a kitchen cleaning hack that will make this task a breeze!

In this article, we will cover how to clean the door, inner walls and ceiling, how to remove food that’s stuck inside, and if there’s a way to remove smells that come with cooking. So whether your microwave is fairly new or has seen better days, follow these steps for a sparkling clean appliance!

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Clean the Inside Of a Microwave

Let’s start with the basics. You’ll need:

• A bowl of water
• A lemon
• A toothbrush
• Paper towels or a microfiber cloth
• Baking soda (optional)
• White vinegar (optional)

Now that you have your supplies, it’s time to get started!

Step One: Remove Anything from Inside the Microwave

The first step is to take everything out of the microwave. This includes any plates, bowls, or cups that may be inside. You should also remove any magnets or other items that are attached to the door. Once everything is out, give the inside a quick wipe down with a paper towel or microfiber cloth. Leaving any food or liquid inside will make cleaning much more difficult.

Step Two: Clean the Door

The next step is to clean the door. Start by wiping down the outside of the door with a damp paper towel or microfiber cloth. Be sure to get in all of the crevices, as this is where dirt and grime tend to build up. Once the outside is clean, move on to the inside of the door. You can also use a paper towel or microfiber cloth for this, but we find a toothbrush does a better job of getting into all the nooks and crannies.

Step Three: Clean the Inner Walls and Ceiling

The next step is to clean the inner walls and ceiling of the microwave. Wet your microfiber cloth or paper towel. You may also want to add a little bit of baking soda or white vinegar to the cloth for extra cleaning power. Be sure to wipe down all surfaces, including the turntable.

Step Four: Remove Food Stuck In Microwave

If there’s food stuck inside the microwave, don’t worry! There are a few ways to remove it without damaging the appliance. The first way is to use a damp paper towel or microfiber cloth. Simply wet the towel and then rub it over the food until it comes loose.

You can also use a mixture of vinegar and water. Microwave for two minutes after mixing equal parts of water and vinegar in a bowl. After two minutes, take the bowl out and use a cloth to rub the stuck-on food. The vinegar will help loosen it so you can easily wipe the excess food away.

Step Five: Remove Smells with Baking Soda

If your microwave smells like burnt food, don’t despair! There is a way to remove the smells and have your microwave smell fresh and clean again. All you need is some baking soda and water.

Simply mix equal parts baking soda and water in a bowl and then place it inside the microwave. Turn the microwave on for two minutes, then let it sit for another five minutes with the door closed. After five minutes, open the door and remove the bowl. The baking soda will absorb all of the smells from inside the microwave.

Other Ways to Clean a Microwave

In addition to the steps above, you can do a few other things to keep your microwave clean. These techniques are also general kitchen cleaning tips, so try them out on your countertops and sinks, too!

How To Clean Your Microwave With Vinegar

Vinegar is a great option if you’re looking for a natural way to clean your microwave. Simply combine equal parts water and vinegar in a bowl, then microwave it for two minutes. After two minutes, take the bowl out and use a cloth to rub the stuck-on food. The vinegar will help loosen those stubborn remnants and you can easily wipe them away.

How To Clean A Microwave With A Lemon

Lemon is another easy option for cleaning your microwave. Like with vinegar, combine equal parts water and lemon juice in a bowl and microwave it for two minutes. When the timer goes off, take the bowl out. The lemon mixture will have softened up hardened food particles, making it easier to wipe them off.

How To Clean Your Microwave With Dish Soap

If you’re looking for a more heavy-duty way to clean your microwave, grab some dish soap. Combine equal parts water and dish soap in a bowl and turn on the microwave for a 2-3 minutes. The chemicals from the soap will seep into the air, loosening the grime that’s built up. Once the timer goes off, you can give a quick scrub to clean your microwave.

How To Clean Your Microwave With Melamine Foam Sponges

If you’re looking for an even more heavy-duty way to clean your microwave, melamine foam sponges are a great option. These sponges are specifically designed to remove tough stains and will do a great job cleaning your microwave. Wet the sponge and rub it over the stained area. The sponge will absorb all of the dirt and grime, leaving your microwave clean and sparkling. If you go this route, make sure to replace your sponge at least once per month.

Enjoy Your Fresh Microwave!

Cleaning the inside of a microwave is important to keep it looking and smelling fresh. Luckily, it’s one of the quickest kitchen hacks — in just a few simple steps, you can easily clean the inside of your microwave and remove any stuck-on food or bad smells. Follow the steps above and use either vinegar, lemon, dish soap, or melamine foam sponges to get the job done. And of course, remember to take a step back and admire your good work!