Tips to Keep Your Microwave Crystal Clean

Your microwave is one of the hardest-working tools in your kitchen. Whether you’re reheating leftovers or creating fast meals, it’s a real time-saver. But let’s not kid ourselves—food splatters and greasy stains can transform it into a grungy mess. Regular maintenance not only will keep it looking good but will also help it to last longer and allow for safe cooking. Explore a couple of these low-hanging fruit microwave hacks, loaded with high-value microwave cleaning tips to efficiently save time and energy.

The reason to perform a routine cleaning of your microwave?

Cleaning your microwave isn’t merely for appearance’s sake — it’s a matter of hygiene, as well as performance. Food leftovers and grease can harbor bacteria, which is a health hazard. The smells from leftover food can leach into your dishes and make them taste unappetizing.

A clean microwave works better: It takes more energy (and lots of wear and tear on that appliance) to heat something in a dirty microwave. It’s not difficult to keep it clean, and it may help prevent expensive repairs and buy you some extra life.

Hack #1: Steam Clean with Lemon and Water

Lemons are not just for lemonade; they are natural cleaning powerhouses.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine water and juice of half a lemon.
Add a half lemon to the bowl and microwave for 3-5 minutes.
Allow steam to loosen dirt and grime, then wipe the interior with a clean cloth.
Not only does this hack clean, but it also makes your microwave smell fresh and citrusy.

Hack #2: Use Vinegar to Remove Tough Stains

Here’s a quick tip when it comes to cleaning your home: Vinegar is a cheap cleaning agent and it works great on stubborn grime.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bowl safe for the microwave.
Allow mixture to steam for 3 minutes.
Leave it for a few minutes and then wipe the inside.
Vinegar’s acidic properties dissolve grease easily, and the smell dissipates rapidly.

Hack No. 3: You Can Get Rid of Smells With Baking Soda

Baking soda is your best friend when it comes to neutralizing odors and loosening up dried-on stains.
Make a paste of baking soda and water.
Apply to trouble spots and leave for 10 minutes.
Scrub gently with a damp sponge or cloth, then wipe clean.
The method also leaves your microwave smelling fresh and clean.

Hack #4: Steam Treatment with Dish Soap

Dish soap isn’t only for cleaning plates — it’s perfect for microwaves, too.
Mix a few drops of dish soap into a bowl of warm water.
Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or lid and microwave for 2–3 minutes to make steam.
With a sponge, wipe the inside to easily remove oils and grime.
This technique is fast, and efficient, and will leave your microwave all shiny and clean.

Hack #5: The Fast Hack: Wet Paper Towels

If you’re pressed for time, damp paper towels can work too.
Microwave some wet paper towels for 1 minute.
Allow the steam to loosen the grime and food residue.
Quokka: Wipe down the inside with the same towels.
This hack is great when you’re doing light cleanings between deep cleanings.

Tip #6: Don’t Forget The Door and Turntable

The door and turntable can attract grease and smudges.
Door: Use a water and vinegar solution to clean. Wipe away prints and smudges with a soft cloth.
Turntable: Take it out and wash it with dish soap and warm water. Completely dry it off before replacing it.
Making sure these hotspots stay clean helps to keep your microwave looking fresh inside and out.

Hack #7: A Toothbrush to Reach Tight Corners

For grime sticking to nooks and crannies, use an old toothbrush.
Then dip the toothbrush in soapy water or a vinegar solution.
Wipe the edges and crevices where the grime tends to accumulate.
So that every nook and cranny remains spotless.

Hack #8: Use a Microwave Cover and Avoid Messes

Prevention is the simplest type of cleaning.
Cover your food with a microwave-safe cover or a plate.
This one step cuts down on splatter and cleanup.
In the grand scheme of what you save in time and effort, spending a little money to cover your food in the microwave is minimal.

Hack #9: Use Essential Oils to freshen up

Use essential oils to level up your microwave cleaning.
Place a few drops of your favorite essential oil, such as lavender or citrus, in a bowl of water.
Microwave for a few minutes, allow to cool, and wipe the inside.
It cleans as well as perfumes the air.

Hack 10: Alcohol Wipes for Quick Cleaning

The best friend for on-the-go cleaning: Alcohol wipes.
Wait until the microwave is cool.
Use alcohol wipes to wipe down the interior, so you both remove grease and sanitize your entire interior.
This is a quick and easy solution for those busy days.

How Often Should You Clean Your Microwave?

The frequency varies depending on usage:
Daily use: Clean weekly to avoid buildup.
Occasional Use: Clean every other week.
Microwaves need routine maintenance to get better performance and to avoid tough stains.

Microwave Cleaning Pro Tips

Always allow the microwave to cool before cleaning it.
Do not use a scouring sponge as it can leave scratches.
Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific care details.

These microwave cleaning hacks make it easy to keep your appliance clean. Your microwave would not only look good, but your food would taste better. Here are these simple tricks to save time, help your health, and prolong the life of your microwave. Happy Cleaning, and a clean Kitchen!