How to Clean and Disinfect the Microwave With Just Vinegar and Water

Christina Falcon
by Christina Falcon
5 Minutes
Easy

5 easy steps to clean and disinfect your microwave with just vinegar and water.


Things You'll Need

  • Microwave safe bowl ( I used a large glass measuring cup)
  • Sponge
  • Paper towels
  • 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar
  • 1 cup of water


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1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar
1 cup of water
Pour vinegar and water into a bowl

Step 1

Pour vinegar and water into a microwave-safe measuring cup or bowl.

Place a measuring cup or bowl in the microwave

Step 2

Place a measuring cup or bowl in the microwave and heat it until boiling; this will vary by microwave. It's best to keep a close eye on it as it begins to boil. Over-boiling may cause excess steam to build up causing the microwave.

Steam the microwave

Step 3

Allow the measuring cup or bowl to remain in the microwave for approximately five minutes so that the steam can accumulate inside the oven.

Wipe the inside of the microwave clean with a damp sponge

Step 4

Carefully open and remove the measuring cup or bowl. Wipe the inside of the microwave clean with a damp sponge. For stubborn stains, dip your sponge in the remaining vinegar and water mixture (careful not to burn yourself).

Dry with a paper towel

Step 5

Dry with a paper towel

Christina Falcon
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
3 of 7 questions
  • Elizabeth Elizabeth on Jun 06, 2017

    Hi!! Please don't think I'm being critical!! I learned the hard way! Heating vinegar in a microwave releases dangerous fumes. The easiest way to do this is boil the water first then add room temper vinegar to the sponge to clean & disinfect

  • Brenda Lahey Brenda Lahey on Jul 12, 2018

    Hi there. Really needed this tip so a big, 'thank you'. However, I am just wondering about someone's comment regarding dangerous fumes coming from the vinegar. Is this true?

  • Thomasina Crocker Thomasina Crocker on Feb 03, 2019

    Yes i will try. How often should i do this? I just clean with dish liquid n water

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  • MATTIE HYDE MATTIE HYDE on Jun 21, 2020

    I just put a wet sponge in the microwave for a minute. Then use the sponge to clean the microwave. Have to wear heat gloves because the sponge is HOT.

  • Gig69451122 Gig69451122 on Apr 02, 2023

    I would like to incorporate this easy idea. However...I've gone through 3 new microwaves in a short time. Rust. The repairman told me he often sees this. Anything steamed, the door closed after wiping down. Begins to eat through the interior of it. Steaming acts like an intense penetrating chemical. Many will say, " I've never heard of that"! Well, hundreds of dollars later...I have learned the hard way.

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