How to Clean a Microwave in 5 Minutes (Steam Trick)

Splatters baked onto the inside of your microwave? Skip the scrubbing. A bowl of water and a few minutes of steam does most of the work for you.

1. Step 1: Water + Lemon Or Vinegar

Fill a microwave safe bowl with about a cup of water. Add a few lemon slices, or a splash of white vinegar. Then put a wooden spoon or chopstick in the bowl. The F D A says a non metal stick helps keep water from overheating and suddenly boiling over.

2. Step 2: Heat For About 5 Minutes

Microwave it on high for about five minutes, until the water is steaming and the window fogs up. Don't let it boil dry.

3. Step 3: Leave The Door Shut

Leave the door closed for another five minutes. The steam softens the stuck on food.

4. Careful: It'S Hot

Open the door slowly, and use oven mitts to take the bowl out. The bowl and the steam are both very hot.

5. Step 4: Wipe It Down

Take out the turntable, and wash it in the sink with hot, soapy water. Then wipe the inside walls, top, and door with a damp cloth. The mess should come right off.