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How often should you clean your microwave?

Proper cleaning and sanitizing of a microwave oven is essential for keeping it clean, safe to use, and working correctly. This guide will show you the best practices for microwave cleaning as well as how often you need to do it for optimal hygiene.

Microwave cleaning steps


Microwaves are very useful appliances and are used every day but they are also one of the dirtiest machines in your home because the food comes into contact with them so frequently cleaning your microwave regularly like house cleaning is a great way to ensure you get the most out of your appliance.

Microwaves are an important part of any household.  A lot of people don't clean their microwaves and it's a mistake. Microwaves get dirty too easily and if you aren't cleaning them regularly, it only gets worse. It's quite easy to forget about this appliance as it's placed in a dark corner away from the light, but despite its small size, it can still spread germs easily. It's recommended that microwaves should be cleaned regularly to make sure they work at their optimum. If your microwave isn't clean then many things can get burned including your food. To prevent all of that from happening, here are some tips on how often you should clean your microwave.


Daily cleaning


If you use your microwave daily, it's important to clean it after every use. You can use vinegar or a mixture of water and baking soda (1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 cup warm water) to soak the inside of your microwave. Allow this solution to sit for at least one hour before using it again.


Once per week


For microwaves that are used less frequently, such as once per week or once per month, use half-strength vinegar solutions at least once per month: first, fill a spray bottle with half-strength vinegar and fill it with warm water; then add enough vinegar so that the liquid level is about 1/4 inch below. However, if your microwave has been used for a long time without cleaning and is showing signs of dirt buildup (especially in the door), then give it a good wipe-down with a damp cloth right after each use.


Twice per month


If you use your microwave more than once every two weeks, you should run a half-strength vinegar solution through it twice per month: First, fill a spray bottle with 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar and fill it with water; then add enough vinegar so that the liquid level is about 1/4 inch below the top of the bottle. Shake well before using as directed above.


Once a month


If you use your microwave daily, you'll want to clean it every few days for optimal performance. Keep in mind that some foods may leave residue on the interior of your microwave that can burn or damage it over time, so cleaning once a month is a good idea.


Every year


If you don't use your microwave daily or at all then once a month will suffice.


Every 6 months


If you don't use your microwave monthly or at all then twice a month will suffice.



When should you clean your Microwave?


The microwave is a high-performance device that uses electricity, so should be cleaned regularly to ensure its continued functionality. The frequency of cleaning depends on the type of food you're cooking, but it's best to clean your microwave at least once a week. You should clean the microwave when it stops working properly or when there are stains on the inside walls of the oven. The best time to clean your microwave is when it's dirty. The first sign is an unpleasant smell coming from inside your microwave after you've used it for a while. If you notice any strong smells coming from inside your oven, this means that there's food left behind in there that needs to be cleaned out!


Start microwave cleaning steps


The frequency of cleaning depends on how dirty the interior gets and how often you use your microwave. 

Before you start any cleaning or sanitizing procedure, you should always make sure to unplug the microwave first. This will ensure that no electrical shock is caused while cleaning and help prevent damage to the wires or circuits of the oven. Always make sure to unplug it from the wall outlet, not just turn off the power switch. 

The first step is to remove any food residue that has built up on the interior walls and door. Then wipe down both sides of the microwave with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any grease or other debris from the surface.

Next, remove any items inside the microwave, such as plastic containers or cups that could have left behind food residue on the interior walls. You will need to clean each piece thoroughly before putting it back together again. Wipe down these items with a damp cloth or sponge as well. If there are any spills on these items, wipe them up with a dry cloth before proceeding to clean them in your microwave.


How to use a cleaning product?


You can use several different cleaning products, but most commonly you'll find that the microwave manufacturers recommend using their microwave cleaner. If you have a very dirty microwave, then it's worth looking for a cleaner designed for ovens. This can be found in most supermarkets and as an alternative, you could also try using vinegar or lemon juice. You can also purchase microwave cleaners from your local supermarket and these will usually come with some handy squeezy bottles so that you can apply the solution directly onto the surface of your microwave. A good cleaner should be able to clean your microwave oven without causing any harm to it or the surrounding areas. It should also be able to remove all food debris and stains so that you can use the appliance again without any problems.


Why should you clean your Microwave?


When you don't clean your microwave often, it can lead to rusting and corrosion on the inside of your microwave oven. This could cause a fire hazard or other problems with your appliance. In addition, if you don't clean your microwave frequently enough, food debris can build up over time and get stuck in your vent holes where it collects dust and cobwebs.


Improves Performance: Over time, the build-up on a microwave can affect its performance. When cleaning it regularly, will help improve its performance. As is the case of oven cleaning.

Longevity: Cleaning a microwave regularly helps it last longer and saves money on repairs or replacements in the long run as well as shortening the time needed for cleaning an appliance that has been neglected for a long period.

Health Benefits: Cleaning your microwave regularly not only helps improve its performance but also keeps it in good shape for your family’s health benefits too.



If you do not have the time or patience to clean your microwave yourself, hiring professionals can be an efficient way to have your microwave professionally cleaned.  For example, if your microwave is electric or gas-powered, consider hiring OZ Cleaners with experience working with these types of appliances. Professionals will know how to clean it safely and effectively without causing any damage or damage to your new appliance's interior components or exterior finishing (such as paint).




Microwave cleaning steps