Microwaves accumulate baked-on food splatter quickly, and dried residue becomes increasingly difficult to clean the longer it sits. A steam treatment softens everything so it wipes away with minimal effort.
Lemon Steam Method
- Fill a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup with 1 cup of water and the juice of one lemon (drop the squeezed halves in too)
- Microwave on high for 3–5 minutes — the water should boil and the steam should coat the interior
- Leave the door closed for 5 minutes after to let the steam continue working
- Remove the bowl carefully (it will be hot)
- Wipe down all interior surfaces with a damp cloth or sponge — residue should come off with minimal effort
- Remove the turntable plate and wash it in the sink with dish soap
Vinegar Steam Method
Works the same way — use 1 cup water and 2 tablespoons white vinegar instead of lemon. Vinegar is slightly more effective on heavy grease build-up.
Stubborn Spots
For residue that doesn't wipe off after steaming:
- Dip a cloth in the warm lemon/vinegar water from the bowl
- Press it against the spot and hold for 30 seconds
- Scrub gently — the softened residue will release
Exterior and Door
- Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and a small amount of dish soap
- Clean the door seal (the rubber gasket) with a damp cloth — grease collects here and can affect the door's airtight seal
- Clean the door screen (the mesh panel inside the door) gently — it is fragile
Tips
- Cover food when microwaving — a microwave-safe splatter cover or upturned plate dramatically reduces clean-up
- Wipe down the interior every week before residue bakes on — a 30-second wipe is far easier than a steam treatment
- Never use abrasive scrubbers inside the microwave — they scratch the interior coating