How to Clean a Microwave Oven With Vinegar

Vinegar is a household substance that's often overlooked when it comes to home cleaning routines. People usually opt for the cleaning products commonly found under the kitchen or bathroom sink to take care of their cleaning duties. The downside to these multipurpose cleaning products is that they can be full of harmful chemicals.

It's best to avoid chemical cleaners, especially when it comes to cleaning places like microwaves and other areas that may come into contact with food and drinks. A safe alternative to cleaning your microwave with chemicals is to instead clean your microwave with vinegar.

Vinegar is a very strong acidic liquid, which is why it works so well as a household cleaner. It will break apart any tough grease or baked-on food and will even remove any lingering odors like burnt popcorn or reheated fish.

The Kitchn mentions that it's important to dilute the vinegar since it has strong acidic properties and odor. For every 1 cup of water, there should be 1 tablespoon of vinegar added. If you have a tough mess to clean, you can increase the concentration of the vinegar by adding 1 or 2 more tablespoons to the water.

Once you've established how much vinegar you wish to use, it's time to clean the microwave. Put the mixture in a microwave-safe bowl and place the bowl in the microwave without the splatter protection cover. Start the microwave on high for a few minutes to heat the water.

Good Housekeeping states that the water should be heated long enough to steam up the window and inside walls of the microwave. This is an important step because the steam will help break down any grease or residue located on the interior walls.

Once you notice that the water has created steam, stop the microwave and let the steam sit for approximately five minutes. Remove the bowl, being careful not to burn yourself if the bowl is still hot to the touch. Get a clean sponge or cloth and wipe down the walls and rotating plate. They should wipe down without difficulty, leaving a spotless and clean microwave.

This method of cleaning your microwave is so easy that it was even shown on Today as a microwave cleaning hack. It's considered a hack because it's so simple to do and is low in cost since most people already have white vinegar in their home. The show even added lemon juice for a fresh scent, and you can add any type of citrus such as lime or orange.

Today also suggested wiping down the exterior keypad of your microwave since germs often remain on the exterior surfaces as well. The handle or release button used to open and close the microwave door shouldn't be forgotten either since you also use this regularly.

The use of vinegar is simple and easy, so why continue cleaning your microwave with chemicals when you can get the job done with regular, safe household items?