The microwave is one of the hardest-working gadgets in the kitchen—quickly reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, and defrosting dinner in minutes. But for all the convenience it provides, it tends to collect splatters, spills, and funky smells just as quickly. The good news? Cleaning it doesn’t have to be a chore.

With a few unexpected hacks using everyday household items, you can let steam do most of the heavy lifting. These odd-but-genius microwave tricks will help you cut through grime, neutralize odors, and keep your appliance spotless with minimal effort. Here are ten surprisingly effective cleaning shortcuts every home should know.

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1. Steam Clean with Lemon and Vinegar

Combine one cup of water, half a cup of white vinegar, and a few lemon slices in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it on high for five minutes. The hot, fragrant steam softens dried food and greasy buildup. Afterward, wipe everything clean—your microwave will be spotless and smell amazing.

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2. Heat a Wet Sponge to Loosen Grime

Soak a sponge with soapy water, place it inside the microwave, and heat it for one minute. The steam lifts stuck-on messes, and the sponge gets disinfected at the same time. Carefully use the warm sponge to wipe the interior afterward.

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3. Use Baking Soda to Remove Odors

Place two tablespoons of baking soda and a cup of water in a bowl, then heat for three minutes. Baking soda naturally absorbs odors, making this ideal for lingering smells from popcorn, fish, or reheated leftovers.

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4. Add Humidity with a Simple Mug Trick

If your kitchen feels dry or you want an effortless clean, heat a mug of water for 2–3 minutes. The steam softens grime enough for a quick wipe-down—and adds moisture to the air around the microwave too.

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5. Disinfect with Diluted Bleach (Use Carefully)

Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a tablespoon of bleach. Heat for two minutes, then carefully remove and wipe everything down. This kills bacteria on the microwave walls. Always ventilate your kitchen and avoid inhaling fumes.

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6. Remove Stubborn Spots with a Warm Cloth

Wet a cloth, wring it out, and place it directly on a dried spill inside the microwave. Heat for one minute. The heated, damp cloth loosens stubborn stains instantly—just use the same cloth to scrub them away.

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7. Freshen the Microwave with Citrus Peels

Don’t toss your orange or lemon peels—use them to freshen the microwave. Place a handful in a bowl of water and microwave for five minutes. The citrus oils release a natural deodorizing steam that leaves your microwave smelling bright and clean.

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8. Loosen Light Grime with a Wet Paper Towel

Lay a damp paper towel flat inside the microwave and heat it for one minute. The steam softens surface grime, and you can use the same towel to wipe everything down. Perfect for small spills and quick cleanups.

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9. Use Soapy Steam to Break Down Grease

Fill a microwave-safe container with water and a few drops of dish soap, then heat for three minutes. The soapy steam helps dissolve greasy residue, making cleaning effortless afterward.

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10. Clean and Deodorize with a Steam Bag

Microwave steam bags aren’t only for vegetables. Add water and a few drops of your favorite essential oil, then heat for several minutes. The steam loosens food buildup while filling the microwave with a fresh scent.

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11. Remove Lingering Odors with Charcoal

For persistent smells, place a small charcoal filter inside the microwave and leave it overnight. Charcoal naturally absorbs odors and keeps your microwave smelling clean between uses.