With its rapid heating ability, the microwave has long been our go-to when we need to cook in a hurry. But rushing often leaves little time to clean the splatters, spills, and spots that inevitably collect in its interior. What’s the easiest way to clean a microwave? Basic lemon juice or vinegar not only eliminates stains but also deodorizes. Discover how to clean a microwave with a combination of lemon and vinegar to eliminate both stains and odors.

How to Clean a Microwave With Lemon and Vinegar in 5 Simple Steps

How do you clean a microwave with lemon and vinegar? Using the microwave’s heat not only creates steam that loosens stubborn stains, but also intensifies the cleaning power of these natural cleansers. The following steps detail how to clean a microwave with lemon and vinegar in under 30 minutes.

Step 1: Mix Cleaning Solution

This simple solution requires just water, lemon juice, and vinegar for effective cleaning. Can you clean a microwave with lemon juice alone? While you can use either lemon juice or vinegar, using both may increase the solution’s cleaning power.

Always dilute the vinegar and/or lemon juice with water to prevent harming components that can cause a microwave to heat improperly. Lastly, if you use vinegar to clean microwave surfaces without adding lemon, add 1-2 drops of essential oil for a fresh scent.

Here’s how to create a natural microwave cleaning solution with lemon juice and vinegar:

  1. Pour 1 cup of water into a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Add 1 cup of white vinegar.
  3. Squeeze 2 Tbsps of fresh lemon juice into the water and vinegar.
  4. Stir to combine the mixture.

Step 2: Microwave Solution on High

The power of steam is the most effective way to clean a microwave with vinegar and lemon. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for 5 minutes. The resulting steam will loosen grease, grime, and food particles.

Step 3: Allow Solution to Sit 

As quick as this microwave lemon cleaning hack can be, this step requires a little patience. After heating for 5 minutes, allow the solution to sit in the microwave with the door closed for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the steam to cool and create condensation, making it easier to clean. It also enables the solution to cool for safer handling and removal.

Step 4: Wipe Down Microwave Interior

After 5 minutes, open the microwave door, remove the solution, and set it aside. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe down the interior of the microwave. If stubborn stains remain, dip the fabric in the bowl of cleaning solution and gently scrub. 

Avoid adding bleach or chemical cleaning agents to stains. Chemical additions to the lemon juice and vinegar can damage surfaces and components, potentially preventing the microwave from starting or functioning correctly. If staining persists, sprinkle baking soda directly on the spot and scrub with a cloth dampened with the cleaning solution.

Step 5: Clean the Turntable and Exterior

The final step in cleaning a microwave with lemon juice and vinegar addresses the turntable and exterior. Remove the turntable and wipe it down with a separate cloth that has been dipped in the cleaning solution. Repeat the same process for the microwave’s exterior.

While knowing how to clean a microwave with lemon and vinegar can keep it naturally clean and fresh, it can’t prevent malfunctions. Trust the experts at Appliance Parts King to help you troubleshoot any issues you might be having.