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How to Get Rid of Smell in Microwave: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate microwave odors easily with this simple, effective E-Cloth method. Step-by-step guide for a fresh, clean appliance.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Microwave

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Microwave-safe bowl
- White vinegar
- Lemon
- Baking soda

Prepare a Cleaning Solution

Fill a microwave-safe bowl with one cup of water and add a few tablespoons of white vinegar.
Squeeze in the juice of one lemon, then drop the halved lemon into the bowl.

Steam Out Odors

Place the bowl in the microwave and run it on high for 5 minutes, allowing the solution to boil and steam up the interior.
Leave the bowl in the microwave for an extra 2 minutes to let the steam further loosen any baked-on food particles.

Wipe Down the Interior

Carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot) and set it aside.
Using a clean, damp cloth, wipe the walls, ceiling, and floor of the microwave thoroughly to remove loosened grime and lingering smells.

Neutralize Remaining Odors

Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda on a damp sponge and gently scrub any stubborn areas with residual smells.
Wipe again with a clean, damp cloth to remove any baking soda residue.

Let It Air Out

Leave the microwave door open for 10-15 minutes after cleaning to let fresh air circulate and help remove any remaining odor.

Safety Precautions

Unplug the microwave before cleaning to avoid electrical hazards, especially when wiping the interior.
Use only microwave-safe bowls for heating the cleaning solution to prevent melting or chemical leaching.
Handle the bowl with oven mitts or a thick towel after microwaving, as it will be extremely hot and may cause burns.
Open the microwave door carefully after steaming to avoid a rush of hot steam that can burn your face or hands.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive pads inside the microwave, as these can damage surfaces and leave harmful residues.
Ensure the microwave is completely dry before plugging it back in and using it again.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Microwave: Extra Tips

Daily Wipe Down and Preventive Cleaning

After each use, carefully wipe the interior with a damp cloth to remove spills and food particles.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners that can damage the microwave’s surface.
Prevent buildup by covering food with microwave-safe lids or paper towels during heating.

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Steam Cleaning with Vinegar and Water

Fill a microwave-safe bowl with equal parts water and white vinegar.
Heat the bowl inside the microwave until the water boils and creates steam.
Let the steam sit for five minutes to loosen grime and neutralize odors.
Carefully remove the bowl and wipe the interior with a soft cloth.

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Combat Odors with Baking Soda

After cleaning, place an open box of baking soda inside the microwave.
Baking soda absorbs lingering odors and keeps the interior smelling fresh.
Replace the box every few weeks to maintain effectiveness.
You can also mix baking soda with water to create a paste for stubborn spots.

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Regular Deep Cleaning Schedule

Set aside time once a week for a thorough cleaning session.
Remove the rotating tray and wash it in warm, soapy water.
Clean all surfaces, including the ceiling, walls, and door, to remove grease and food splatters.
Regular deep cleaning not only keeps the microwave odor-free but also extends its lifespan.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Microwave

No Game Plan, No Progress

Establish a clear cleaning schedule to avoid last-minute scrambles.
Break tasks into manageable daily routines to keep the momentum going.
Set realistic, bite-sized goals to maintain consistency and avoid burnout.

Using the Wrong Cleaners

Always check the product label to match the cleaner with the surface type.
Separate cleaning chemicals to prevent dangerous reactions and ensure effectiveness.
Consider multi-surface products for efficiency, but double-check that they suit your specific needs.

Neglecting Declutter Before Cleaning

Clear away clutter to make cleaning more efficient and stress-free.
Organize items in designated areas to reduce dust and grime buildup.
Adopt a routine decluttering habit to keep your space easier to clean over time.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Microwave

Frequency Recommendations

If you use your microwave daily, aim for a thorough cleaning once a week. Daily use creates residual food particles and moisture that can quickly result in unpleasant odors.
For moderate use—say, several times a week—a bi-weekly deep clean should suffice to keep smells at bay.
If the microwave is used infrequently, cleaning it once a month is generally enough to prevent odor buildup.

Why This Frequency?

Regular cleaning prevents baked-on food residue which can trap odors and become much harder to remove over time.
Frequent maintenance ensures that any spill or splatter is addressed before it has a chance to harden and cause persistent smells.
Considering that microwaves are used to heat food where hygiene is crucial, consistent cleaning safeguards both flavor and health.

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