You don't need commercial cleaners to get your microwave sparkling. Lemon's all-natural cleaning power does the job quickly and safely.
Time 30 minutes
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$5–10
Introduction
Lemons seem to do everything. Natural and relatively inexpensive, they'll freshen up your garbage disposal and give copper pots and pans new life. You can even use them to exfoliate your face!
But what about cleaning a microwave? Is lemon a good choice for tackling baked-on food?
"Yes, it is!" says Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean. Lemons contain citric acid, making them great natural cleaners. They also have antibacterial and antiseptic properties.
If your microwave needs a refresher, this easy task only takes a half-hour, tops. Here, Sokolowski walks us through the steps. It could cost as little as $1 if you already have microfiber cloths and vinegar, which you can use multiple times
Tools Required
- Kitchen knife
- Measuring cup
- Microfiber cloths
- Microwave safe bowl
Materials Required
- Juice of one lemon (about two tablespoons)
- Vinegar
Watch How To Clean a Microwave With Lemon
Project step-by-step (4)
Step 1
Make the Cleaning Solution
- Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add one cup of water.
- Add one cup of vinegar.
Pro tip: You could leave out the vinegar, but Sokolowski says adding it increases the cleaning power.
Step 3
Steam
- Leave the door closed. Let the steam loosen the baked-on food for about 10 minutes.
- Then carefully remove the bowl and set it aside, reserving the lemon mixture.
Step 4
Clean
- Wipe down the walls, floor and door with a microfiber cloth.
- Scrub stains or stubborn food bits with the reserved lemon solution.
- Be careful! The solution may still be hot.
- Remove and clean the turntable and wipe down the exterior with a microfiber cloth and the lemon solution.
