Cleaning the inside of a microwave is easy and safe if you soften the dried splatters first, then wipe them away with a mild cleaner like dish soap, vinegar, or baking soda in water.

Fast steam-clean method

  • Fill a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup with about 1 cup of water and optionally add 1–2 tablespoons of white vinegar for extra cleaning power.
  • Heat on high for 3–5 minutes, until the water is steaming and the walls are fogged up; leave the door closed for a few more minutes so the steam can loosen grime.
  • Carefully remove the hot bowl, then wipe the interior (walls, ceiling, floor, door) with a soft cloth or sponge, rinsing it in clean water as it gets dirty.

For really stuck-on splatters

  • Make a thick paste of baking soda and a little water, spread it on caked-on spots, and let it sit at least 5–10 minutes.
  • Wipe the paste away with a damp cloth or sponge; repeat on stubborn areas instead of scraping so you do not scratch the surface.
  • If needed, re-run the steam method (water with a splash of vinegar) to loosen anything left and then wipe again.

Simple soap-and-water clean

  • Mix a small squirt of mild dish soap into a bowl of warm water, dip a soft cloth or sponge, and wipe down all inside surfaces after big spills or once the steam has loosened residue.
  • Rinse by wiping again with a cloth dampened in clean water so no soapy film remains, then dry with a soft towel to prevent water spots.
  • Remove the glass turntable, wash it in the sink with dish soap like a plate, dry it, and put it back when the interior is clean.

Odor removal and prevention

  • To remove lingering smells, heat a bowl of water with lemon slices or a spoonful of vinegar for a few minutes, let it sit, then wipe the interior dry.
  • For persistent odors, place an open box or small bowl of baking soda inside (microwave off) overnight to absorb smells, then remove it before using the microwave.
  • To keep it cleaner longer, cover foods that might splatter and wipe small spills soon after they happen so they do not bake on.

Safety tips

  • Unplug the microwave if you will be doing a thorough clean, especially around the door and control panel.
  • Avoid harsh abrasives, metal scouring pads, or spraying cleaner directly into vents or on electronic controls; instead, apply cleaner to a cloth and then wipe.
  • Do not run the microwave empty (no water) when “steam-cleaning,” and always use microwave-safe containers for the water and cleaning mixtures.

TL;DR: Steam a bowl of water (with a bit of vinegar), let the steam loosen grime, wipe everything with a soft cloth, use baking soda paste for stubborn bits, and finish by rinsing and drying the inside.