Stick a Fork In It! Microwave Oven Maintenance | APHW Skip to main content

How to make microwave cleaning easy

An open-faced rye bread sandwich with stuffing on top of sliced turkey on top of cranberry sauce in front of an open silver microwave with the clock reading "13:32"

Thanksgiving is kicking off the end-of-year parade of holidays, which means it's time to plan for those delicious leftovers! Whether you love turning all that turkey and stuffing into a sandwich, taco, or bowl of soup, your microwave is sure to get a workout after holiday meals and on the days in between. With our guide below, you can show it some love, helping it keep your holiday food warm and satisfying all winter long.

Microwave cleaning tips

There are many ways to maintain your microwave, so it's always ready to go. Before you do any cleaning, however, be sure to unplug it to avoid the risk of shock or damage!

Clean the inside

Cleaning your microwave and plate cover weekly can help you avoid old food smells or hard-to-clean stains. By fully wiping the inside and outside of your microwave twice a month, you can prevent food bits from getting trapped, which could affect things like the seal of your microwave’s door. To soften stains, microwave a wet sponge with 2-5 drops of soap and heat for 30-60 seconds before cleaning.

Clean the outside

Cleaning is not just for your microwave’s interior. Make sure the outside matches the inside — clean the control panel and handle (if applicable) with mild soap and warm water on a microfiber cloth. Keep the “window” fingerprint-free by using a microfiber cloth and diluted window cleaner.

Bonus Tips

Once your microwave has been cleaned, take a moment to examine the state of inexpensive but important parts, such as the bulbs, plate roller, and turntables. Be sure to replace broken or damaged parts as soon as you can so your microwave can run in tip-top shape.

If yours needs anything beyond a simple replacement, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Microwaves are small, but mighty machines that may contain transformers capable of carrying 3,000 volts!

For shocking tips and tricks on how to make caring for kitchen appliances easy, explore our kitchen maintenance guide

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