How to Clean Your Microwave With Lemon: The Ultimate Guide

Enjoy a sparkling microwave thanks to a quick, eco-friendly citrus steam-clean method.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 25, 2025

Enjoy a sparkling microwave thanks to a quick, eco-friendly citrus steam-clean method.

Cleaning your microwave doesn’t have to be a chore—or require harsh chemicals. In fact, you can achieve gleaming results, eliminate odors, and tackle microwave grime using only a lemon, water, and this easy steaming method. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn splatters or musty smells, this natural solution is safe for your appliance, your family, and the planet.

Why Choose Lemon to Clean Your Microwave?

Lemons are prized not only for their bright, citrusy fragrance but also for their natural cleaning power. The citric acid in lemon juice breaks down grease, kills bacteria, and neutralizes lingering smells—all without the use of harsh, toxic substances found in conventional cleaners.

Natural Disinfectant: Lemons have powerful antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Deodorizing Effect: Lemon’s scent helps neutralize musty or burned odors inside your microwave.
Eco-Friendly: Cleaning with lemon is safe for the environment and perfect for households seeking natural solutions.
No Residue: When used with water, lemons leave no chemical residue—just a fresh, clean scent.

The Lemon Microwave Cleaning Method: Step-by-Step

Transform your stained, stinky microwave back to a sparkling kitchen hero with these straightforward steps.

What You’ll Need

1 fresh lemon (or 2 for extra cleaning power)
Microwave-safe bowl (preferably deep and wide-bottomed)
1 cup water (roughly 250 ml or enough to fill the bowl half way)
Clean microfiber towel or sponge
(Optional) Baking soda for extra stubborn stains

Step 1: Prepare Lemon Water

Cut the lemon in half. Squeeze the juice from both halves into your microwave-safe bowl.
Add the halves. Drop the squeezed lemon halves into the bowl as well.
Add water. Fill the bowl halfway (about 1 cup) with tap water.
Stir gently. Swirl or mix lightly to distribute the lemon juice throughout the water.

Step 2: Steam Clean

Place the bowl in the center of your microwave. Make sure the bowl is microwave-safe and large enough to avoid boiling over.
Heat on high power for 5 minutes. The water will begin to boil, turning into lemony steam. This steam loosens stuck-on food and melts away grime from the interior walls and ceiling.
Leave the door closed for another 5–15 minutes. The trapped steam continues to loosen residue and further disinfects and deodorizes every surface.

Step 3: Wipe Away Grime

Carefully open the microwave door. Be cautious when removing the hot bowl—it may be very warm. Let it sit briefly if necessary.
Use your microfiber towel or sponge. Wipe all interior surfaces: ceiling, walls, turntable, and corners. The grime should slide off easily with little pressure. For stubborn bits, dip a corner of your towel in the warm lemon water and scrub gently.
Wash the turntable separately. Take out the glass turntable and wipe it with lemon water or clean it in your sink for a thorough shine.

Step 4: (Optional) Treat Stubborn Stains With Baking Soda

If any residue persists, sprinkle a pinch of baking soda onto a damp cloth and gently scrub the remaining spots. Baking soda’s abrasive texture tackles hardened splatters without scratching the interior liner.

Step 5: Clean the Exterior and Controls

Dip a clean cloth or paper towel in the lemon water and wipe down the outside of your microwave, paying special attention to sticky buttons, handles, and vents.
For extra grime, use a soft-bristled toothbrush dipped in lemon water around crevices and controls.

Table: Quick Comparison—Lemon vs. Other Microwave Cleaning Methods

Method	Primary Ingredient	Effectiveness	Odor Removal	Eco-Friendly	Residue Left?
Lemon & Water	Lemon, water	High	Excellent	Yes	No
White Vinegar & Water	Vinegar, water	High	Good	Yes	No
Baking Soda Paste	Baking soda, water	Medium (spot cleaning)	Neutral	Yes	No
Commercial Cleaners	Chemicals	High	Mixed (can mask odors)	No	Yes

Extra Tips for a Spotless, Odor-Free Microwave

Repeat regularly: Clean your microwave weekly or as soon as splatters occur to prevent buildup.
Use a cover: Microwave-safe covers prevent food splatters and reduce cleaning frequency.
Leave the door open: Occasionally leave the door open after use to prevent moisture buildup and odors.
Deodorize further: For strong, lingering smells, add a dash of baking soda to your lemon water before microwaving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Your Microwave With Lemon

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon?

A: Yes, bottled lemon juice can substitute for fresh if needed. Use about two to three tablespoons in a bowl of water. However, fresh lemon slices release essential oils that boost fragrance and cleaning power.

Q: Is this method safe for all microwave interiors?

A: Yes. As long as you use a microwave-safe bowl and avoid overfilling (to prevent spills), the lemon and water technique is gentle, non-abrasive, and suitable for all models.

Q: How often should I clean my microwave?

A: For best results, wipe up spills immediately and deep-clean with the lemon method weekly or biweekly, depending on usage.

Q: Will this method remove burnt-on stains?

A: The lemon-and-steam process loosens most stains. For heavily burned areas, repeat the process or follow up with baking soda paste for extra scrubbing power.

Q: Can I use limes or oranges if I don’t have lemons?

A: Yes! Limes and oranges contain similar acids and essential oils. The fragrance and cleaning effect may be slightly different, but both work well as substitutes.

Q: How can I keep my microwave smelling fresh after cleaning?

A: Wipe regularly and always leave the door slightly ajar after use if moisture is present. Placing an open bowl of baking soda inside (with the microwave off) also helps absorb odors between cleanings.

Alternative Natural Methods For Cleaning a Microwave

White Vinegar: Combine equal parts water and vinegar in your bowl. Microwave for five minutes, let steam sit, and wipe clean. The odor is stronger, but vinegar is highly effective on grease and bacteria.
Baking Soda Paste: Mix water and baking soda to a thick paste. Dab on stubborn spots, let sit 5 minutes, and gently scrub before wiping clean.
Dish Soap Solution: For regular cleaning, use a bowl of soapy water, microwave to steam, then wipe down afterward.

Safety Reminders

Always use microwave-safe containers to avoid cracking or melting.
Use oven mitts when removing the hot bowl—steam and liquid can burn!
Never let your microwave run empty, and don’t overfill the bowl to prevent water from boiling over.

Summary: The Benefits of Cleaning With Lemon

Fast and simple—under 15 minutes from start to finish
Zero chemicals—just fruit and water
Effective on stains, splatters, and odors
Kid- and pet-safe
Leaves the microwave and your kitchen feeling fresh

More Quick Cleaning Hacks

Clean your dishwasher naturally with a cup of vinegar and baking soda.
Washing machine revamp: Run an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar to eliminate funky smells.
Fridge deodorizer: Place a halved lemon on a plate to absorb and neutralize strong food odors.

Takeaway

Chemical-free microwave cleaning is as easy as tossing in a lemon and letting steam do the work. Try this eco-friendly method just once and it may become your go-to every time a burst of tomato sauce explodes. Your appliance—and your nose—will thank you.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete