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The ultimate kitchen hack: cleaning your microwave with vinegar
Are you tired of scrubbing your microwave every time you heat up a meal? Do you hate the smell of harsh cleaning chemicals? Fear not, because there is a simple and natural solution to clean your microwave – vinegar!
Vinegar is a mild acid and a natural cleaner that can easily remove stubborn stains and spots in your microwave. This cleaning method is also eco-friendly and safe for your health!
In this guide, we will show you step-by-step how to clean your microwave with vinegar. You will need only a few household items, and your microwave will be sparkling clean in no time! So let’s get started!
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- A microwave-safe bowl
- A sponge or cloth for wiping
Step by Step Cleaning Guide:
Step 1: Mix Together the Water and Vinegar
Combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of white vinegar in your microwave-safe bowl.
Step 2: Microwave Your Cleaning Solution
Place the bowl in your microwave and turn it on for 5-10 minutes, depending on the power of your microwave. Your solution should boil and steam up but don’t worry that’s exactly what we want! The steam produced will do most of the cleaning work while also filling your kitchen with a delicious scent of vinegar.
Step 3: Let the Solution Sit for a Minute
After microwaving, let the bowl sit inside the microwave for a minute or two. This will give the steam time to work it’s magic.
Step 4: Wipe it Down
Using a cloth or a sponge, wipe down the inside of your microwave. Even the most stubborn grease and grime should release easily. If you’re having difficulty with certain spots, repeat the process.
Step 5: Scrub the Turntable and Plate
Remove the microwave turntable and plate and wash them in soapy water, rinse and dry before replacing back inside the microwave.
The Benefits of Using Vinegar:
Vinegar is an excellent natural cleaning agent due to its acidity. It’s cheap, non-toxic and safe to use. There are so many great uses for vinegar around the house, but cleaning the microwave with it is a game-changer.
Conclusion:
Thanks to this simple kitchen hack, you’ll never have to face the daunting prospect of cleaning your microwave again. With just a few things that you probably already have at home, you can have a fresh, clean, and odorless microwave in under 15 minutes.
References:
Taste of Home: How to Clean a Microwave with Vinegar

Steps to Clean the Inside of a Microwave
Cleaning the inside of a microwave may seem like a daunting task, but it is essential to keep your appliance running smoothly and your food healthy. Follow these steps to get your microwave sparkling clean:
Step 1: Gather Supplies
Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies. You will need:
- Bowl or measuring cup
- Dish soap or vinegar
- Water
- Sponge or cleaning cloth
Step 2: Remove Turntable and Wipe Down Interior
Remove the turntable and wipe down the interior of the microwave with a sponge or cleaning cloth to remove any loose food debris or splatters.
Step 3: Clean the Turntable
Wash the turntable in the sink with dish soap and water, or place it in the dishwasher if it is dishwasher safe.
Step 4: Create Cleaning Solution
Pour 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of dish soap or 1/4 cup of vinegar into a bowl or measuring cup.
Step 5: Heat Cleaning Solution
Place the bowl or measuring cup in the microwave and heat on high for 5 minutes. This will allow the cleaning solution to create steam and loosen any stuck-on grime.
Step 6: Wipe Down Interior
Remove the bowl or measuring cup with oven mitts, as it will be hot. Carefully wipe down the interior of the microwave with a sponge or cleaning cloth, being sure to remove any remaining grime.
Step 7: Rinse and Dry
Rinse the sponge or cleaning cloth and wipe down the interior of the microwave with clean water. Dry the interior with a clean cloth or paper towel.
By following these steps, you can keep your microwave clean and in good working condition for years to come. For more information on microwave ovens, visit this Wikipedia page.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ultimate kitchen hack for cleaning my microwave?
The ultimate kitchen hack for cleaning your microwave is using vinegar. It is an effective and natural solution to remove stubborn stains, grime, and bad odours from your microwave.
How does vinegar help in cleaning my microwave?
Vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that dissolves dirt and grime. The acidic properties of vinegar help to break down the food stains and disinfect the surface, leaving your microwave clean, fresh and odour-free.
What should I do to clean my microwave with vinegar?
To clean your microwave with vinegar, you can follow these simple steps:
- Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it for 3-5 minutes until it boils and produces steam.
- Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave, making sure to use oven mitts to avoid burns.
- Wipe the inside of the microwave with a damp cloth or sponge.
- For stubborn stains, dip the cloth or sponge in the vinegar solution and scrub the stained area gently.
- Rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe the inside of the microwave again to remove any vinegar residue.
- Finally, dry the inside of the microwave with a clean cloth.
Can I use any type of vinegar to clean my microwave?
Yes, you can use any type of vinegar to clean your microwave as long as it is a white distilled vinegar. Other types of vinegar such as apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar may stain the inside of your microwave.
Are there any safety precautions I need to take when cleaning my microwave with vinegar?
Yes, you need to take a few safety precautions when cleaning your microwave with vinegar:
- Always use a microwave-safe bowl to avoid any accidents.
- Be careful when handling the hot vinegar solution, as it can cause burns.
- Allow the bowl to cool down for a few minutes before removing it from the microwave.
- Make sure the microwave is unplugged before cleaning it.
How often should I clean my microwave with vinegar?
You should clean your microwave with vinegar regularly, depending on how often you use it. If you use your microwave frequently, you may need to clean it every week or every other week to keep it clean and odour-free.

The Ultimate Kitchen Hack: Cleaning Your Microwave with Vinegar
- Vinegar is a safe and effective way to clean your microwave.
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup.
- Place the mixture in the microwave and heat for 5-10 minutes, until it boils and steam covers the interior.
- Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes to loosen grime and stains.
- Wipe down the interior with a clean cloth or sponge.
- For stubborn stains, dip the cloth or sponge in the vinegar mixture and scrub.
- For tough smells like burnt popcorn, add a few drops of lemon juice to the vinegar mixture.
- Repeat the process until the entire microwave is clean and fresh-smelling.





























