How do I clean a dirty microwave without scrubbing?
Steam it clean instead of scrubbing. Heat a microwave-safe bowl of water with a few lemon slices for 3 to 5 minutes, then leave the door closed for another 3 minutes. The steam softens dried splatter, which usually wipes off with a paper towel in a few passes. The lemon mostly adds a fresh smell.
How to do it
- Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a few lemon slicesAbout one to two cups of water with three or four lemon slices is plenty. A glass or ceramic bowl works well.
- Heat the bowl for 3 to 5 minutes on highStop when the water is steaming hard and the door window has fogged up.
- Keep the door closed for 3 more minutesThe trapped steam keeps working, softening dried splatter on the ceiling, walls and turntable.
- Lift the bowl out with an oven mittThe bowl and the water will be very hot, so move slowly to avoid spilling.
- Wipe the ceiling, walls and turntableUse a paper towel or damp cloth and go over each surface in a few passes. Wash the turntable in the sink if any spots remain.
Questions that come up
Can I use vinegar instead of lemon?
Yes. A tablespoon or two of white vinegar in the water works too, because the steam does most of the cleaning. Vinegar smells stronger while it heats, but the smell usually fades quickly once you leave the door open for a few minutes. Plain water also softens grime; the additive mostly changes the smell.
What if some spots still won't come off?
Run the steam cycle once more, or hold a hot damp cloth on the stubborn spot for a minute. For burned-on residue, a paste of baking soda and a little water on a soft sponge usually helps. Avoid steel wool or abrasive pads, which can scratch the interior coating.
Is it safe to heat a bowl of water in the microwave?
Usually, with some care. Water heated in a very smooth, clean container can superheat and suddenly boil over when disturbed. The lemon slices give bubbles somewhere to form, which can reduce that risk, and a wooden spoon or chopstick in the bowl does the same. Always lift the bowl out with an oven mitt.
Full transcript
Crusty microwave? Steam a bowl of lemon water. Heat water and a few lemon slices in a microwave-safe bowl for three to five minutes. Keep the door shut three more minutes to soften the grime. Then just wipe, and the splatter usually slides right off.