Cleaning a Microwave Inside and Out
A microwave is one of the easiest appliances to clean — when you use the right method. The steam technique requires almost no scrubbing and works on baked-on food that would otherwise take serious effort.
The Steam Method (Interior)
- Fill a microwave-safe bowl with 1 cup of water and a few tablespoons of white vinegar (or a sliced lemon)
- Microwave on high for 3–5 minutes until the water boils and the interior is full of steam
- Leave the door closed for another 3 minutes — the steam continues to loosen food residue
- Carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot) and the turntable
- Wipe the interior with a damp cloth — food residue wipes off easily
- Wash the turntable in the sink with dish soap
Exterior Cleaning
Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and a small amount of dish soap. Pay attention to the door handle (high-touch area) and the area around the door seal. Dry immediately. For stainless steel exteriors, wipe with the grain as with any stainless appliance.
The Door Seal
The rubber door seal accumulates food splatter and can harbour bacteria — wipe it with a damp cloth regularly. Do not use harsh chemicals on the seal as they can degrade the rubber.
How Often
Quick wipe-down after each use (30 seconds) prevents buildup entirely. A full steam clean monthly is sufficient for regularly maintained microwaves; weekly for heavy users.