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

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate burnt food odors from your microwave easily with this simple, effective E-Cloth cleaning guide. Fresh results, step by step.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Microwave After Burning Food

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Lemon or white vinegar
- Paper towel
- Water

Step 1: Remove Burned Remnants

Open the microwave door and take out the turntable if removable.
Wipe away any visible burned food using a damp cloth or paper towel.

Step 2: Steam Clean to Neutralize Odors

Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and add a few slices of lemon or a couple of tablespoons of vinegar.
Heat the bowl on high for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the mixture to steam up the interior.
Keep the microwave door closed during steaming so the hot vapor can loosen grease and absorb odors.

Step 3: Wipe Down Thoroughly

After the steam cycle, carefully remove the bowl (it could be hot) and wipe the interior with a clean cloth.
Focus on all surfaces, ensuring you remove any leftover moisture and odor-causing residues.

Step 4: Let It Air Out

Leave the microwave door open for a while to allow any remaining odor to dissipate.
This final airing step helps ensure the smell from the burnt food is completely gone.

Safety Precautions

Unplug the microwave before cleaning to avoid electrical hazards.
Allow the microwave to cool completely if it was recently used to prevent burns.
When removing the bowl after steaming, use oven mitts or a thick towel—the bowl and steam can be extremely hot.
Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive pads inside the microwave, as they can damage surfaces and leave harmful residues.
Ensure all cleaning materials are microwave-safe and free of metal.
If you notice any persistent smoke or electrical smell, discontinue use and have the microwave checked by a professional.

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

Tip 1: Ventilate and Wipe Immediately

Immediately after burning food, open the microwave door and allow it to cool and air out.
Wipe down any visible soot or food residue with a damp cloth to prevent the smell from settling.

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Tip 2: Steam Clean with Vinegar and Water

Mix one cup of water with one tablespoon of vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl.
Heat the mixture for about 5 minutes until steam accumulates on the walls; then let it sit for a few minutes.
The steam loosens burnt-on food and neutralizes odors.

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Tip 3: Freshen Up with Lemon

Slice a lemon and place the pieces in a bowl of water.
Microwave the bowl for about 3-4 minutes until it steams.
The lemon juice and aroma help break down the smell and leave a fresh scent.

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Tip 4: Deep Clean for Persistent Odors

If the burnt smell lingers, sprinkle baking soda inside the microwave and let it sit overnight.
Wipe off the baking soda the next day, or leave an open box of baking soda inside for continuous odor absorption.
Regularly clean and inspect the microwave to prevent buildup and recurring smells.

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

Overusing Harsh Chemicals

Many people believe stronger cleaners mean a cleaner home, but overusing harsh chemicals can damage surfaces and harm indoor air quality.
Opt for gentle, effective cleaners for daily maintenance and save heavy-duty products for tough grime only.
Always test new products on a small area before full application to prevent unwanted reactions.

Neglecting Hidden or Hard-to-Reach Areas

It’s easy to forget spots like baseboards, behind appliances, and the tops of doors and shelves.
Make a checklist to ensure you regularly clean these overlooked areas.
Using extendable tools or attachments can help you access tight or elevated spots with ease.

Using Dirty Cleaning Tools

Cleaning with contaminated rags, sponges, or mop heads simply spreads dirt and bacteria around.
Rinse and thoroughly dry tools between uses, and replace them regularly for best results.
Designate specific tools for certain tasks to minimize cross-contamination.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Microwave After Burning Food

Regular Maintenance

Clean your microwave externally and internally every day after heavy use or spills. A quick daily wipe minimizes residue buildup that can later produce stubborn, burnt food smells.
If you use your microwave regularly, perform a more thorough cleaning at least once a week. This deep cleaning removes food particles and grease that daily cleaning might miss.
For cooks who frequently run high-temperature or complex food setups (which might lead to occasional burning), consider cleaning twice a week to keep odors and buildup in check.

Why This Frequency Works

Daily maintenance prevents the accumulation of grease and food residues, which are the primary sources of lingering burnt smells.
A weekly deep clean tackles any hidden buildup that simple surface wipes don’t remove—keeping the microwave functioning better and smelling fresher.
More frequent deep cleaning when needed ensures that burnt food odors don’t become entrenched, ultimately extending the lifespan and performance of your appliance.

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