3 Brilliant Microwave Cleaning Hacks

Let’s be real, microwaves can get messy fast. One rogue bowl of spaghetti and suddenly you’ve got red splatters on the ceiling of your microwave that seem to multiply overnight. The good news? These microwave cleaning hacks are all-natural, ridiculously simple, and they actually work. And yes, you probably already have everything you need sitting in your kitchen.

In a world full of complicated cleaning routines, home cleaning tips that are easy, effective, and chemical-free are a total win. Whether you’re on a mission to ditch the harsh sprays or just trying to make the most of a 10-minute window while your kids are occupied, these tips will help you turn that grimy microwave into a sparkling clean one, fast.

You know that moment when you open your microwave to reheat your coffee (for the third time today), and instead of a warm cup of caffeine, you’re hit with what looks like a crime scene? Yeah, same.

For reasons I’ll never understand, soup has a sneaky way of bubbling over like it’s got a personal vendetta. One second it’s calmly spinning, and the next, there’s broth on the ceiling and mystery chunks clinging to the walls. And if you don’t wipe it up right away, it turns into a crusty layer of regret that laughs in the face of your usual sponge. At that point, you’re torn between grabbing a chisel or just throwing the whole microwave out.

But surely I’m not the only one dealing with microwave mayhem, right? So I set out to find the easiest, no-fuss, chemical-free ways to tackle this sticky situation. What I discovered were three microwave cleaning hacks that are super simple, and surprisingly effective.

dirty microwave with a bowl of pasta inside

The good news is I have since learned a few tricks on how to get that grease and grime off without too much effort.

How to Clean the Outside of Your Microwave

Before we get to the real mess inside, let’s start with the outside. Because let’s be honest, grimy fingerprints, grease splatters, and sticky buttons aren’t exactly the vibe we’re going for in the kitchen.

The easiest and most effective way to clean the exterior of your microwave? Good old-fashioned hot soapy water. I’ve found that Dawn Dish Soap works like magic here. It’s known for cutting through grease, and that’s exactly what we’re up against.

Most chemical-heavy cleaners tend to leave streaks or that weird filmy look, but hot soapy water gets the job done quickly, gently, and without all the fuss. The hotter the water (within reason), the better it works. So pick a temp that feels manageable, and you’re good to go.

D/M Pro Tip: Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth to clean and dry your microwave. Anything too abrasive can scratch the surface, especially the front panel and display.

Start by wiping down the front, buttons, handle, and door. Re-soap your sponge often to help loosen and lift any greasy buildup. Once you’ve done a thorough wipe-down, use a clean sponge to rinse everything off, and then dry with a soft towel. This last step helps you spot any lingering grease, so you can go back in for round two if needed.

Repeat the same process on the top and sides (if they’re exposed). You’ll be surprised how much cleaner your kitchen feels when your microwave isn’t wearing a coat of grime.

Now, let’s talk about the bottom of the microwave, which tends to be the messiest spot, especially if it’s above your stovetop. This one deserves its own step-by-step.

D/M Pro Tip: Place a cookie sheet or towel over your stovetop while cleaning the bottom of your microwave. It’ll catch any gunk that falls off while you’re scrubbing.

Use a hot, soapy sponge and work your way across the bottom surface. If the grease is caked on, you can switch to a soft scrub brush, just be gentle to avoid scratching.

If your microwave has a removable filter, take it out and soak it in hot soapy water with a bit of baking soda tossed in for extra grease-cutting power. For a full walkthrough, check out the cleaning guide at Clark.com.

Still seeing stubborn grease spots? Sprinkle a little baking soda onto your sponge. It adds just the right amount of gentle grit. And if all else fails, a Magic Eraser can help finish the job, this is my secret weapon for those extra tough spots.

D/M Pro Tip: Add this quick wipe-down to your weekly cleaning routine. It makes future deep cleans way easier, and keeps your microwave looking like new.

Dawn Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray, Dish Soap, Fresh Scent, 16 Fl Oz Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Sponge, Bathroom Cleaner, Shower Cleaner, Tub Cleaner, Soap Scum Remover, Bathroom Cleaning Supplies, Dawn Cleaning Power with Febreze Lavender Scent, Ultra Bath, 5ct Iberia 100% Lemon Juice, 32 Ounce (Pack of 3)

3 Microwave Cleaning Hacks to Try

Before we dive in let’s go over a few kitchen cleaning essentials. These supplies are something each household should have on hand but if you do not, be sure to add it to your shopping list now so you have it the next time you are faced with a greasy and grimy mess.

Women with red hair cleaning and lime-green gloves cleaning a white and black microwave.

My Top Natural Cleaning Tools Every Kitchen Should Have

Dawn Dish Soap – Perfect for cutting grease and grime in your microwave so it is easier to remove.
Baking Soda – Using baking soda to clean your microwave is a great way to add a gentle yet effective abrasiveness to your sponge.
Vinegar – Another way to cut through grease, but can damage some surfaces, so read your manufacturer’s instructions before using.
Lemon Juice – Helps to loosen up grease in your microwave, so it is easier to remove and also gives a pleasant scent.
Sponges – I always like to have good strong, yet soft sponges for cleaning my microwave and other delicate appliances.

Microwave Cleaning Hack #1: Quick Weekly Steam Clean

This first hack is ideal for regular weekly maintenance to keep your microwave clean and prevent buildup before it becomes a bigger job.

Grab a handful of paper towels and dampen them well under the faucet (I like using the sink sprayer for this to better control the flow). You want them heavily damp but not dripping. Fluff them up into a loose pile and place them right in the center of your microwave.

Now, run your microwave on high for 4–5 minutes. This creates a warm, steamy environment that loosens grease, dried-on splatters, and mystery gunk you’d rather not think too hard about.

Once it stops, let it sit closed for a few minutes so the steam can keep working its magic. Then open the door, carefully grab those paper towels (they’ll be hot!), and use them to wipe down the inside. Grease and grime? Gone.

Microwave Cleaning Hack #2: Lemon Vinegar Deep Clean

This second method is your go-to for a deeper clean, especially when it’s been a minute since your last microwave reset.

Grab a microwave-safe bowl and fill it with water. Add about ¼ cup of white vinegar and a few lemon slices. The citric acid from the lemon works alongside the vinegar to break down stuck-on food. You can even add a wooden spoon or a toothpick into the bowl (yes, really!), this helps prevent the water from superheating and cracking the glass.

Microwave this mixture on high for about 5 minutes or until it comes to a full boil. Then keep the door closed for another 2–3 minutes to let that lemony steam loosen up every crusty spot.

Carefully remove the bowl (warning: hot!) and wipe down the inside with warm, soapy water. Finish by drying with a soft cloth. Your microwave will smell fresh and look like new.

A women placing a glass bowl, with a half of a fruit in it, into a white microwave.

Microwave Cleaning Hack #3: Baking Soda Boost for Stubborn Messes

Still dealing with a stubborn mess? This hack combines all the powerhouses, baking soda, vinegar, and steam, for a full deep clean.

Start by dissolving 4 tablespoons of baking soda into a quart of warm water. Stir well to break up any clumps. Then dip your sponge into the mixture and wipe it all over the inside of your microwave. Get every nook and cranny.

Next, in a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of vinegar. Microwave this for 4–6 minutes until it boils. Let it sit inside the microwave (door closed) for about 10 minutes so the steam and vinegar can work with the baking soda to loosen every bit of grime.

Remove the bowl and carefully use that warm vinegar-water mixture to wipe down the interior. This rinses off the baking soda while lifting off dirt. You might need a few passes to make sure everything’s removed, but trust me, it’s worth it.

An Ounce of Prevention = Less Microwave Mayhem

Want to avoid doing a full-blown microwave detox every week? Your best bet is to catch spills as they happen. A super simple habit: give the inside a quick wipe after each use. It takes seconds and keeps mess from becoming cemented to the walls.

Of course, in a busy household (ahem, teens reheating leftovers and not covering them), that’s not always realistic. So here are a few small tools that make microwave cleanup way easier:

My Top Microwave Tools Every Cook Should Own

Microwave Mat – A great way to keep the glass tray clean and keep it from breaking.
Cooking Cover – Keeps splatters to a minimum.
Microwave Cooking Bags – I have never used these bags but they look as if they would work pretty well.

Whether you’re doing a quick weekly wipe-down or tackling a bigger job, these home cleaning tips are designed to save you time and effort while still getting great results. A clean microwave really does make the whole kitchen feel fresher.

Now that your microwave is fresh, clean, and chemical-free, let’s keep the momentum going. Check out these Storage Ideas for Small Appliances, it’s full of smart tips to clear your counters and keep your kitchen organized.