Try as we might, but food spills, spatters and pops in a microwave. Unless you clean if off right after it spills, there’s a chance that your microwave may have some stubborn food stuck on it. Luckily, there’s a quick and easy way you can clean it using vinegar and steam. Not only will cleaning your microwave make your kitchen look clean and tidy, it will also help your microwave to work better. A clean microwave that doesn’t have extra caked-on food will function better and last longer, because it won’t be working as hard!

Here at Landmark Home Warranty, we cover your microwave oven if you have a home warranty plan that includes it, and if they’ve been properly maintained. This tip is a simple and easy way to ensure your microwave is cleaned and working properly! Of course, before beginning this project, make sure you read your instruction manuals on your microwave to ensure you’re following manufacture specifications.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 2 cups water
• A microwaveable bowl
• A sponge or paper towel

Actually cleaning the microwave is really easy, but you want to be careful. It does involve making steam in the microwave, and when you’re boiling water, you can accidentally superheat the bowl or cup. There are times when boiling water can “explode.” If you’re worried about this phenomenon happening with you, add a wooden toothpick to the bowl to keep the water and bowl from exploding.

To clean your microwave using this steam-cleaning method, just follow these steps:

1. Fill your bowl with your vinegar and water mixture.





2. Add a toothpick or two to keep it from overflowing.



3. Microwave the bowl for five minutes.



4. Leave the door shut for 3 minutes after the timer has beeped.



5. Wipe the microwave down with your sponge.



6. Clean your microwave’s turntable plate.

If your microwave doesn’t seem to be cleaning as well, you can sprinkle some baking soda on the tougher caked on food and spray vinegar on them to help loosen the caked-on food.

Enjoy your clean microwave!

Need more easy DIY tips for your kitchen? Take a look at our kitchen spring cleaning tips here! If you’re interested in getting your microwave oven repaired or replaced for small service call fee when it fails from normal wear and tear, you can purchase a home warranty from Landmark to protect it. Landmark repairs or replaces covered microwave ovens if they fail from normal, common wear and tear. Learn more about Landmark Home Warranty and what we cover here.