2 Eco-Friendly Cleaning Hacks For Your Commercial or Residential Microwave

Microwaves are one of those inventions that make our lives just a bit easier. In fact, they’ve become such a staple in American kitchens, that we can quickly forget to show these appliance a little love. But, we should actually be cleaning these little helpers at least once a week.

While our professional home cleaning packages include microwave cleaning as part of the package, we wanted to give you some tips on how to care for your microwave in-between professional cleanings. So, here’s our 2 DIY hacks for getting your home (or office) microwave in top shape for some quick and easy cooking!

Why is a clean microwave important?

First, let’s talk about why it’s so important to clean your microwave often. When left uncleaned, microwave interiors can build up food, grease and other leftover messes. This residue can cause odor, stains and make the interior harder to clean over time. But, routine cleanings can prevent interior and exterior stains, as well as extend the life of surfaces in the microwave. Also, it makes cooking in them a more enjoyable experience. After all, there’s nothing less appetizing than being hungry, getting ready to microwave your favorite food, then opening up the door to a microwaved-mess.

Cleaning Hack 1: The Lemon Method

What you’ll need:

• Microwave safe bowl or large glass measuring cup
• 1 lemon
• Water

The lemon in this method not only helps create steam, but also adds a fresh lemon scent to your microwave while cleaning.

What you’ll do:

1. Roll the lemon on a counter to get the juices flowing. Then, cut it in half.
2. Fill the bowl or measuring cup with about 8oz of water, then squeeze as much lemon juice out of the halves as you can, into the water.
3. Drop the remaining lemon halves into the container and place it in the microwave.
4. Run the microwave on full power for 5-10 minutes. This will create steam and make it easier to wipe away any cooked-on mess.
5. After running, let the bowl stand in the microwave for five minutes.
6. Remove the bowl (caution: it may be hot!) and use a dish cloth or paper towel to wipe the interior clean!

Microwave Cleaning Hack 2: The Vinegar Method

What you’ll need:

• A spray bottle, filled with vinegar
• A dishcloth, sponge or paper towel (for cleaning)

This method requires no heating, and is super effective on caked-on messes.

What you’ll do:

1. First, remove the microwave turntable, and wash with dish soap in sink
2. Next, Spray down the interior of the microwave with the vinegar
3. Let the vinegar sit for 10 – 15 minutes, then wipe the interior clean with your cloth, sponge, or paper towel
4. Replace the clean turntable and your microwave will look like new!