Kitchen cleaning
How to Clean the Inside of a Microwave
Remove food residue, grease, and odour safely
Overview
Switch off and disconnect the appliance as directed by its manual, then let the oven and turntable cool completely. Clean with a slightly damp soft cloth and mild dish soap, keeping liquid away from vents and controls.
Tools needed
- Two or three soft cloths
- Basin of warm water
- Mild dish soap used as labelled
- Soft non-abrasive sponge
- Dry towel
- Small basin for the turntable support
Cleaning steps
Check the manual and let it cool
Stop using the oven and let the cavity, turntable, and heating parts cool completely. Check the model manual for special care directions.
Switch off and disconnect power
Switch off and unplug as instructed. Hold the plug, not the cord; isolate a built-in model only as its manual directs.
Remove the turntable and support
Lift out the cool glass turntable and support with both hands. Leave any uncertain part in place.
Collect loose crumbs first
Use a slightly damp soft cloth to collect crumbs without pushing them into the drive shaft or vents.
Wipe the cavity and ceiling
Use a soft cloth with a little warm water and mild dish soap on the walls, ceiling, and floor. Do not spray liquid heavily inside.
Clean the door and contact surfaces
Wipe both sides of the door and its frame with a damp soft cloth. Avoid hard brushes or scrapers; stop using an oven with door damage.
Wash and dry removable parts
Wash the turntable and support with warm water and mild dish soap, rinse, dry fully, and refit correctly.
Rinse, dry, and inspect
Remove detergent residue with a clean damp cloth, then dry. Reconnect only when no liquid has entered vents and all parts are correctly fitted.
Common mistakes
Removing a hot glass turntable
✓ Correct actionWait until it is fully cool, then lift it steadily with both hands.
Spraying cleaner directly and heavily inside
✓ Correct actionPut a small amount on the cloth so liquid cannot run into openings.
Using steel wool or a hard scraper
✓ Correct actionUse a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge to protect the finish.
Refitting and powering while parts are wet
✓ Correct actionRinse and dry everything fully before correct reassembly.
Practical tips
Tips for helpers
- Wipe fresh splashes after the oven cools so they do not harden.
- With permission, photograph removable parts before lifting them out.
- Use separate cloths for washing, rinsing, and drying.
Tips for employers
- Provide the model manual, especially for grill, steam, or self-clean features.
- Arrange professional inspection for a door that will not close, sparking marks, or damaged parts; do not ask a helper to dismantle it.
Completion checklist
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