When a microwave is very dirty inside because of splatters and spills, it might seem impossible to clean. In some cases even rubbing, scraping and scrubbing will not remove the stuck-on mess. Forget about using a plastic scraper or special cleaning solvents. Use these easy ways to clean a very dirty microwave, and restore it to a like-new condition without damaging the surface with abrasives or chemical cleaners.
Soak the Splatters and Stains with White Vinegar
White vinegar works far better than anything else when trying to clean a very dirty microwave. It is acidic enough to soften stuck-on food, but it is gentle enough to safely clean away the mess. Keep a bottle of white vinegar on hand for cleaning purposes. It will work quickly and easily, and it costs less than chemical cleaners.
When trying to clean a very dirty microwave, begin by soaking the entire interior with white vinegar. This is easy when using a kitchen sponge. Allow the vinegar to work for several minutes before continuing.
Use Hot Soapy Water and Clean Removable Parts
While the white vinegar is working to clean the inside of a very dirty microwave, use hot soapy water to wash removable parts. This might include a glass microwave tray and a frame on rollers. The parts should be very easy to clean in the sink no matter how dirty they are.
Wipe Away Stuck-On Food with a Kitchen Sponge
After cleaning removable parts, wipe the inside of the microwave using a kitchen sponge. After the white vinegar has soaked into the splatters and splashes inside of the microwave, chances are the abrasive side will not be necessary.
Messes should wipe away quickly and easily. If not, place the tray and support back into the microwave, and promptly boil a cup of water. Allow the steam to soften the stuck-on food for several minutes. Carefully remove the cup, and go over the surface once more time with white vinegar. Let the vinegar soak in, and after several minutes, attempt to clean the very dirty microwave once again. This time the mess should wipe right off very easily.
Finish with a Damp Dish Cloth
After the microwave is spotless inside, finish the job by rinsing it with a damp cloth. Wipe it dry with a soft absorbent towel, and replace the interior parts. It should be ready to use once again. However, make sure that anything heated in the microwave is covered beforehand to prevent further splatters and unnecessary messes that might be difficult to clean.