Wipe Away the Grime: Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave – it might be hot, so use oven mitts or a towel. Take a clean cloth or sponge and wipe down the inside of the microwave. You’ll notice that the grease and grime come off easily with minimal scrubbing. For any particularly stubborn spots, dip the cloth or sponge into the warm vinegar solution and give those areas a little extra attention.
Final Rinse: Once all the grease and stains have been removed, take a clean, damp cloth and wipe down the inside of the microwave to remove any leftover vinegar residue. You’ll be left with a clean, fresh-smelling microwave with almost zero effort!
Why This Method Works
The reason this trick works so well is due to the combination of heat and vinegar. The steam generated from boiling water softens dried-on food particles and grease, making them easier to wipe away. Vinegar, a natural acid, helps break down grease and grime. It also acts as a disinfectant, killing bacteria and neutralizing odors without leaving a harsh chemical smell. Adding lemon juice not only enhances the cleaning power with its natural acidity but also leaves behind a pleasant citrus scent.
Extra Tips and Tricks
Regular Maintenance: To keep your microwave in top condition, try this steam cleaning method once a week or whenever you notice stains starting to build up. Regular cleaning prevents grease from hardening and becoming more difficult to remove.
Use a Microwave Cover: To minimize mess, consider using a microwave cover or splatter guard. These inexpensive items can catch most splatters, making cleaning even easier.