How to Clean Your Microwave

We’ve all been there – our microwaves start off clean and in no time at all, the inside becomes a splattered mess, the top gets dusty and the control panel gets marked up with fingerprints. Keeping your microwave clean not only makes it look great, but it also helps prevent bacteria buildup on the inside, which makes it safer for you. Follow our quick and easy guide to get microwave looking like new again!

To clean your microwave you will need:

• A microwave-safe cup with a handle
• A couple of tablespoons of white vinegar or dish soap
• A soft cloth
• Glass cleaner
• Water
• A dry cloth or paper towel

Cleaning the interior

Cleaning the inside of your microwave is simple! Pour a cup of water and a couple of tablespoons of white vinegar (you can use dish soap if you don’t have white vinegar) into a microwave safe cup and put that in the microwave for 2 or 3 minutes. Using a mug with a handle is the best option here to ensure you can remove the mug as safely as possible.

Don’t heat the mixture to a boil, just make sure the mixture gets hot. Let the steam collect on the interior walls of your microwave. Remove the mug, being careful not to burn your hands on the cup. Do not pour the mixture out yet as you will need it to clean the exterior of your microwave.

Next, take out the microwave’s glass tray and carriage - be careful as the tray may be hot or have liquid on it.

The interior will have moisture accumulated on it from the vinegar and water solution. Take a clean cloth and wipe down the interior, removing any food residue that has accumulated. This may take a little bit of elbow grease depending on how firmly the food has stuck to the microwave. If you need more liquid, simply dip the cloth into the cup containing your vinegar and water solution and keep scrubbing!

When cleaning the mica plate, make sure not to use any harsh chemicals and to be gentle as the plate is typically very fragile.

When the inside is clean, dry it with a fresh cloth or paper towel.

Next, clean the carriage and glass tray with dish soap and warm water.

While you have these items out, check for any damage. If you find damage, replace the broken part.

Once the glass tray and carriage have been washed, thoroughly dry them and place them back in the microwave.

Cleaning the exterior

Dip a fresh soft cleaning cloth into the vinegar and water solution and then wipe down the exterior of your microwave.

If you have a countertop model, make sure to pull the microwave far enough forward that you can clean the back too.

To clean the door, spray some glass cleaner onto a cloth or paper towel and carefully wipe the surface and controls.

If you happen to find some damaged or worn-out parts while cleaning your microwave, remember that we carry a huge range of microwave repair parts. Just use your model number to see if we have the part you need!