The Easiest Way to Clean Your Messy Microwave

Photo: Shutterstock / anderm

“Hooray! It’s time to clean the microwave,” said no one…ever.

Even if you’re the Queen of Clean, scrubbing out a microwave ranks up there with trying on bathing suits, deep-cleaning the oven, and sifting through garbage looking for your son’s discarded retainer. (Read: not fun at all.) From last week’s scorched-on spaghetti sauce to the great chili explosion of 2009, microwave remnants are not for the weak-hearted. Toss in some elbow grease and a backbreaking stance described as a “chiropractor’s dream,” and you’ve got the perfect storm of kitchen chores.

But messy outcomes shouldn’t keep you from nuking your dinner. (Especially after considering these delicious microwave-ready recipes.) Follow along as we show you the ultra-fast, fuss-free way to clean your microwave.

How to Clean a Microwave, Quick

Step 1: Fill Up Your Cup

Grab a microwave-safe cup or bowl and fill it halfway with water (1/2 to 3/4 cup works great).

Optional: For lemon-scented freshness without any chemicals, cut a lemon in half and squeeze the lemon juice into the water. Then add the lemon halves to the bowl.

Step 2: Nuke it

Microwave the mixture on high for 4 to 5 minutes or until the water comes to a rolling boil. Be sure the water doesn’t boil over.

Step 3: Get Steamy

Let everything sit for 3 or 4 minutes. Do not open the microwave door. You want the microwave to fill with the steam created by the boiling water.

Step 4: Wipe it Down

Carefully remove the cup or bowl and wipe out the microwave with a damp cloth. Discard the lemon rinds.

Voila! You’ve got a sparkling-clean microwave.You may have to repeat these steps a second time for truly baked-on particles, but overall this is a fast, easy and…kinda, sorta…fun way to clean the microwave. Heck, make the kids do it—tell them it’s a science experiment. You’ll thank yourself the next time you’re looking to microwave that breakfast egg sandwich!