A splattered microwave is one of the most common kitchen annoyances, and one of the easiest to fix. Steam does the hard work for you. In about five minutes, a bowl of water softens dried-on food so you can wipe it away with a cloth, with no heavy scrubbing and no harsh chemicals.
Here is the simple steam method, how to handle burnt spots and odors, and a few habits that keep your microwave clean longer.
What you need
- A microwave-safe bowl
- Water
- White vinegar or a lemon (optional, for odors)
- A wooden spoon or a few toothpicks
- Oven mitts
- A damp microfiber cloth or sponge
- Dish soap
- Baking soda for stubborn spots
Step-by-step: how to clean a microwave with steam
Step 1: Make the steam bowl
Pour about one cup of water into a microwave-safe bowl. For odors, add one tablespoon of white vinegar, or slice a lemon and drop the pieces in. Place a wooden spoon or a few toothpicks in the bowl. This helps prevent superheated water, which can boil over suddenly when you move the bowl.
Step 2: Heat until it steams
Microwave the bowl for three to five minutes, until the water is boiling and the window is fogged with steam. Times vary by microwave wattage, so start with three minutes and add time if needed.
Step 3: Let it sit with the door closed
Leave the door closed for five more minutes. The trapped steam keeps working and loosens even dried-on splatters.
Step 4: Remove the bowl carefully
Use oven mitts because the bowl and the water will be very hot. Open the door away from your face to avoid a rush of steam.
Step 5: Wash the turntable
Take out the glass turntable and the support ring and wash them in hot soapy water, then dry them. Most turntables are dishwasher safe, but check your manual first.
Step 6: Wipe the inside from top to bottom
Dampen a microfiber cloth or sponge and wipe the ceiling first, then the walls and the floor. Most splatters lift off easily. Rinse the cloth often.
Step 7: Deal with stubborn spots
For burnt-on spots, make a paste with baking soda and a little water. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe gently. Avoid steel wool and abrasive pads, which can scratch the interior coating.
Step 8: Clean the door seal and the outside
Wipe the door edges and rubber seal, where grime hides, with a damp cloth. Then wipe the exterior and the keypad with a lightly dampened cloth, and never spray cleaner directly into the control panel.
How to get rid of microwave odors
- Heat a bowl of water with lemon slices for three minutes and let it sit.
- Heat water with a tablespoon of baking soda for a few minutes, then wipe the inside.
- Leave the door open for 20 to 30 minutes so the interior can air out.
- If a burnt smell stays, repeat the steam method once more.
Mistakes to avoid
- Running the microwave empty, which can damage it.
- Putting metal, foil or metal-trimmed dishes inside.
- Heating water for too long without a spoon or toothpicks in the bowl.
- Using abrasive scrubbers on the interior walls.
- Spraying cleaner directly onto the control panel.
Keep it clean longer
- Cover food with a microwave-safe cover or a paper towel to stop splatters.
- Wipe up spills as soon as the microwave cools.
- Do a quick steam clean once a week, or whenever you notice splatters.
- Wash the turntable regularly along with your dishes.
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Frequently asked questions
How do you clean a really dirty microwave?
Use the steam method first to loosen the mess, then wipe it clean. For burnt-on spots, add a baking soda paste and wipe again.
Is it safe to use vinegar in the microwave?
Yes, a small amount of white vinegar in a bowl of water is commonly used to create cleaning steam. Use a microwave-safe bowl and be careful when removing it, because it will be very hot.
How often should I clean my microwave?
A quick wipe after messy spills and a steam clean once a week keeps it fresh. Regular cleaning prevents hard crusts from forming.
Want a bigger kitchen win? Try our greasy stovetop guide or this 10-minute kitchen reset.