How to Clean the Inside of a Microwave?

It happens to the best of us: you’re heating up a bowl of chili or a plate of leftover pasta, and halfway through the cycle, you hear that dreaded pop. You open the door to find a "food explosion" covering every square inch of the interior. Because the microwave is an enclosed, high-heat environment, those splatters don't stay wet for long—they bake onto the walls, becoming rock-hard and difficult to scrub.

At Lily Maids, we believe the kitchen is the heart of the home, and a clean microwave is essential for both food safety and kitchen hygiene. Fortunately, you don't need harsh industrial degreasers to get the job done. This guide covers the most effective, "no-scrub" professional techniques to get your microwave looking brand new.

Why Microwaves Get Dirty So Quickly

The microwave is likely the most used and least cleaned appliance in the American kitchen. Understanding why the grime builds up so fast can help you prevent it.

Food Splatter and Steam Buildup

The primary culprit is moisture expansion. When food heats up, water molecules turn into steam. If that steam is trapped inside a piece of food (like a tomato or a potato skin), it builds pressure until it explodes.

Furthermore, because the microwave is a small, sealed box, the steam that escapes your food carries tiny particles of grease and sugar. This steam condenses on the ceiling and walls of the unit. Every time you use the microwave without cleaning it, you are essentially "kiln-firing" that residue into a permanent glaze.

Step-by-Step Microwave Interior Cleaning

The secret to cleaning a microwave isn't "elbow grease"—it's steam. Professionals use moisture to loosen the bond between the food and the plastic or enamel walls.

Steam Cleaning Method (The Lemon/Vinegar Trick)

This is the gold standard for routine cleaning.

1. Prepare the Solution: Fill a microwave-safe glass bowl with 1 cup of water. Add 2 tablespoons of white distilled vinegar or the juice of one sliced lemon (drop the rinds in the water, too).
2. Heat it Up: Place the bowl inside and microwave on high for 5 to 7 minutes. You want the water to reach a rolling boil so the window becomes completely fogged with steam.
3. The "Dwell" Time: This is the most important part. Do not open the door as soon as the timer beeps. Let the bowl sit inside for another 5 minutes. This allows the steam to penetrate the crusty food bits.
4. Remove the Turntable: Carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot!) and the glass turntable. Wash the turntable in the sink with warm, soapy water.

Wiping and Drying Properly

Once the steam has done its work, the grime should wipe away with zero effort.

• Use a microfiber cloth to wipe the ceiling first (where most grease hides), then the sides, and finally the floor.
• If there are stubborn spots, dip your cloth into the warm vinegar/lemon water and gently agitate.
• The Final Polish: Use a dry cloth to buff the interior dry. Moisture left behind can lead to "musty" smells the next time you heat food.

Removing Burnt-On Food

Sometimes, a simple steam isn't enough for those "mystery spots" that have been there for months.

Baking Soda Method

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that is safe for the delicate interior of a microwave.

• Mix 2 parts baking soda with 1 part water to create a thick paste.
• Apply the paste directly to the burnt-on food.
• Let it sit for 5 minutes, then wipe it away with a damp sponge. The baking soda not only lifts the stain but also acts as a powerful deodorizer for burnt smells.

Repeating Steam Safely

If the microwave is exceptionally greasy (common in office breakrooms or busy family homes), you may need to repeat the steam cycle twice. Always use fresh water for the second round to ensure maximum steam production.

FAQs

How often should you clean a microwave?

For a typical US household, a quick wipe-down should happen weekly. A deep steam clean is recommended once a month to prevent odors and ensure the microwave's fan and wave-guide cover remain unobstructed.

Is vinegar safe for microwaves?

Yes. White distilled vinegar is one of the safest and most effective cleaners for microwaves. It cuts through grease and sanitizes the surface without leaving behind any chemical residues that could leach into your food.

Can professionals clean appliances?

Absolutely. At Lily Maids, appliance cleaning is one of our most requested "add-on" services. While a regular cleaning focuses on the exterior, our deep cleaning service includes a full interior overhaul of your microwave, oven, and refrigerator.

Let Lily Maids Perfect Your Kitchen

We know that life gets busy, and "deep cleaning the microwave" is rarely at the top of your fun-to-do list. At Lily Maids, we take pride in the details that others skip. From degreasing your range hood to ensuring your microwave is spotless and fresh, we provide the deep-level care your kitchen deserves.

Want a kitchen that shines from the inside out?Contact Lily Maids today to add appliance cleaning to your next service!