How to Clean a Microwave with Vinegar?

Your microwave is an essential tool for everyday convenience, but it can quickly become a grimy, caked-on mess from splatters and spills. While commercial cleaners can get the job done, many homeowners prefer a simple, natural solution that's effective, safe, and easily available.

The best-kept secret for a sparkling clean microwave? Vinegar.

This powerful, natural cleaner uses steam to do all the hard work for you, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals and intense scrubbing. This guide will walk you through the simple, step-by-step process, along with extra tips for a deep and lasting clean.

Why Vinegar Works as a Natural Cleaner

Vinegar has been a staple in household cleaning for generations, and its effectiveness in the microwave is a perfect example of why.

Grease-cutting power

White vinegar is a mild acid that works wonders on grease and dried-on food. When heated, the steam from the vinegar solution penetrates and loosens stubborn grime, allowing you to simply wipe it away without any strenuous scrubbing. This is especially useful for baked-on food that has hardened over time.

Odor neutralization

Beyond its cleaning power, vinegar is an excellent natural deodorizer. The steam from the heated vinegar neutralizes and eliminates lingering food smells—like burnt popcorn or last night's fish—leaving your microwave smelling fresh and clean.

Step-by-Step Vinegar Cleaning Method

This simple method uses the microwave's own power to create a deep-cleaning sauna for its interior.

You'll need:

• A microwave-safe bowl or glass measuring cup

• 1 cup of water

• 1/2 cup of white distilled vinegar

• A clean microfiber cloth

Step 1: Mix vinegar and water in a bowl

Combine the water and vinegar in your microwave-safe bowl. For extra power on very greasy or dirty microwaves, you can increase the amount of vinegar slightly.

Step 2: Heat until steaming

Place the bowl in the center of the microwave. Set the microwave to high power and heat for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the liquid comes to a rolling boil and the inside of the microwave is completely filled with steam. The steam is what does all the work, so you want the entire interior to look hazy and fogged up.

Step 3: Wipe away loosened grime

Leave the microwave door closed for 5 to 10 minutes after the timer goes off. This is a crucial step! The steam needs time to penetrate and soften all the caked-on food. After the waiting period, carefully remove the hot bowl. The grime should now be loose and soft enough to be wiped away effortlessly with a clean microfiber cloth.

Extra Tips for Tough Spots

If your microwave is exceptionally dirty, these simple additions can help.

Add lemon juice for freshness

For a boost of fresh scent, squeeze the juice of half a lemon into your vinegar-water solution before heating. The lemon's natural acid will also help cut through grease while leaving a pleasant, citrusy fragrance.

Use baking soda for stubborn stains

For any spots that didn't come off with the steam, a baking soda paste is the perfect solution. Mix a little baking soda with a few drops of water to create a paste. Apply it directly to the stain and gently scrub with a soft sponge. The mild abrasion will help lift the stain without scratching the surface.

Safety Tips

While this method is safe, a few precautions will ensure a smooth process.

Let vinegar cool before wiping

The bowl and the steam will be extremely hot. Always use caution when removing the bowl from the microwave. The steam should be left to cool slightly inside the microwave before you open the door and begin wiping.

Avoid overfilling bowls

Do not fill your bowl to the brim. The liquid will boil and expand, and you risk a hot, dangerous overflow. Make sure to leave ample room at the top.

FAQs

Can I use apple cider vinegar instead?

While apple cider vinegar has cleaning properties, it's not recommended for this method. Its color and sugar content can leave a sticky residue or a faint stain on the interior of your microwave. For best results, always use a clear, distilled white vinegar.

How often should I deep clean?

For best results, we recommend a deep clean using the vinegar steam method at least once a month. For everyday maintenance, simply wipe down the inside of your microwave with a damp cloth after each use to prevent food from hardening and building up.

Need more than just a quick cleanup? Contact the experts at Sparkling Elite Cleaners today for a free estimate on our professional cleaning services!