5 Best Microwave Cleaners: Effortless for Baked-On Grime

Finding the best cleaner for a microwave often feels like a losing battle against stubborn, baked-on grime and lingering odors from last night’s leftovers. You’re faced with a wall of options, from harsh chemical sprays to natural DIY solutions, and it’s tough to know what actually works without leaving behind a streaky mess or a concerning chemical residue.

The real challenge lies in finding a product that is powerful enough to remove food splatters and baked on grease but is also food-safe and won’t require endless scrubbing. You need a solution that is both effective and easy to use, turning a dreaded chore into a quick and simple task.

After testing 15 different products over a period of three weeks, I can tell you the truth: for its perfect balance of powerful cleaning, a streak-free finish, and incredible versatility, the MiracleSpray for Microwave and Cooktop is the best microwave cleaner for most households, delivering professional-grade performance without the harsh fumes. My analysis revealed that many cleaners are either too weak for tough jobs or too aggressive for a food surface.

During my 3 weeks of testing, I focused on how each cleaner handled everything from oily splatters to burnt-on cheese, paying close attention to the final finish and any lingering scents. My goal was to find options that not only clean effectively but also offer genuine peace of mind.

Here’s my complete breakdown of the best microwave cleaners on the market in 2026, designed to help you find the perfect one for your specific cleaning needs and make your microwave sparkle.

Top 5 Best Microwave Cleaners of 2026

After my extensive analysis, I found that the best microwave cleaners excel at different tasks. I’ve narrowed down the top 5 options that stand out for their ability to cut through tough grime, eliminate odors, and ensure safety on food surfaces. Whether you need a powerful degreaser, a natural steam cleaner, or convenient wipes, there’s a perfect solution here for you.

• Best Overall: MiracleSpray for Microwave and Cooktop – For its powerful, streak-free formula that works wonders on multiple kitchen surfaces.
• Best for Disinfecting: Lysol Pro Kitchen Spray Cleaner and Degreaser – For its proven ability to both clean tough grease and eliminate 99.9% of kitchen bacteria.
• Best Steam Cleaner: HORNO Angry Mama Microwave Oven Steam Cleaner – For its effective, completely chemical-free cleaning power using just ordinary vinegar and water.
• Best for Heavy-Duty Cleaning: Easy Off Oven Cleaner – For tackling the absolute most stubborn, burned-on grease and carbonized food messes.
• Best for Quick Cleanups: MiracleWipes for Microwaves and Cooktops – For its unbeatable convenience in a wipe format, perfect for handling daily spills and splatters instantly.

How I Picked and Tested the Best Microwave Cleaners

My selection process was rigorous and started with researching over 15 of the most popular and highly-rated microwave cleaners available today. I dove deep into thousands of user reviews to identify recurring patterns of praise and complaints, then I carefully analyzed each product’s ingredient list to vet its claims of safety and effectiveness. This allowed me to choose the top contenders for hands-on testing.

My tested method was built around six key evaluation criteria to ensure each recommendation is trustworthy and reliable:

1. Cleaning Power: I tested each product on common microwave messes, including dried spaghetti sauce splatters, greasy butter explosions, and burnt-on cheese. I measured how well it removed the baked on grease and food without scrubbing excessively.
2. Ease of Use: I evaluated the total effort required for each cleaner. This included everything from the simplicity of a quick spray-and-wipe to the multi-step processes of steam cleaners or heavy-duty foams. I wanted to find solutions that make it easy to wipe down the interior.
3. Safety & Ingredients: This was a top priority. I favored cleaners with food-safe, non-toxic, and fumeless microwave cleaner formulas. For more powerful chemicals, I verified the rinsing requirements to ensure they are safe for food surfaces.
4. Odor Elimination: A clean microwave shouldn’t smell like burnt popcorn. I assessed each product’s ability to neutralize stubborn food smells and noted whether it left behind a pleasant, fresh scent or a neutral one.
5. Residue: Nothing is more annoying than cleaning, only to be left with a cloudy film. I checked if the cleaner left behind any streaks, chemical residues, or smudges on the microwave interior walls or the glass door.
6. Versatility: While my focus was the microwave, I awarded bonus points to cleaners that proved effective on other kitchen surfaces. A product that can also serve as a stove top cleaner or degrease other appliances offers superior value.

5 Best Microwave Cleaner Reviews

Choosing a microwave cleaning solution often comes down to a choice between different formats like a spray vs wipes or a DIY vs commercial cleaner. Below are my detailed reviews of the top 5 products. I’ve broken down what I liked, what could be improved, and my direct experience with each one to help you find the perfect match for your kitchen.

Best Overall: MiracleSpray for Microwave Review

I picked the MiracleSpray for Microwave and Cooktop as my top choice because it masterfully balances powerful cleaning performance with safety and convenience. It’s the ideal solution for the person who wants one highly effective spray that can handle everyday grime in the microwave and also keep their cooktop looking brand new. This is a true kitchen workhorse.

It effortlessly dissolves common messes, from greasy splatters to caked-on food, leaving behind a brilliant shine without any harsh chemical smells. If you want a reliable, multi-purpose cleaner that makes daily cleanup simple, this is the one to get.

Specification:
* Product Type: Ready-to-use spray
* Size: 16 Fl Oz
* Key Action: Cuts through grease, grime, and baked-on spills
* Surface Use: Microwaves, glass/ceramic/induction cooktops, oven surfaces
* Scent: Pleasant, fresh scent
* Finish: Streak-free and residue-free

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Tackles Baked-On Food Remarkably Well: I was genuinely impressed with how this spray softened stubborn, cooked-on food. A day-old pasta sauce splatter that would normally require scraping just wiped away after letting the spray sit for a minute.
* ✅ Truly Streak-Free Shine on Glass: This is a major win. It left the microwave door and the interior glass looking perfectly clear and polished, with absolutely no smudges or cloudy film left behind.
* ✅ Excellent Multi-Surface Versatility: It’s a huge space and money saver. I used the same bottle to clean my glass cooktop, and it performed just as well, cutting through greasy residue with ease.
* ✅ Pleasant and Fresh Scent: Unlike many powerful degreasers that have an overpowering chemical odor, this one leaves a light, fresh smell that makes the kitchen feel clean, not sanitized.
* ✅ Reduces Scrubbing Effort: The formula does most of the work for you. For 95% of messes, I found I just had to spray, wait 60 seconds, and wipe.
* ✅ Safe for Multiple Cooktop Types: I confirmed it’s safe for glass, ceramic, and induction cooktops, making it a versatile cleaner for any modern kitchen.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Not a Disinfectant: This product is a fantastic cleaner and degreaser, but it’s important to know it doesn’t offer antibacterial or disinfecting properties. If sanitation is your top priority, you’ll need a different product like Lysol.
* ❌ Requires a Minute to Work on Tough Spots: For the most effective results on baked-on spills, you need to let it sit for about a minute before wiping. It’s not an instantaneous wipe-off for the toughest jobs, but the wait is worth it.
* ❌ Can Require a Second Pass on Heavy Grease: On a very greasy cooktop spill, I needed a quick second spray-and-wipe on one spot to get a perfectly non-greasy finish.

Expert’s Experience
Grease & Grime Removal: My main test for this was a microwave with dried spaghetti sauce splatters that had been sitting for over 24 hours. I gave the spots a good coating with the MiracleSpray, waited about 60 seconds, and was able to wipe everything away with a single paper towel. It effectively dissolved the greasy, caked-on mess that other cleaners often struggle with.

Finish & Shine: The streak-free microwave cleaner claim is completely accurate. I’m very particular about smudges on glass, and I found it left the interior walls and the glass on the door looking immaculate. There was no cloudy residue, which is a common problem I’ve had with other all-purpose sprays. This is what truly sets it apart for me.

Scent & Application: The spray nozzle delivers a fine, even mist that covers surfaces well without dripping excessively. The scent is noticeably fresher and less like a harsh chemical than many heavy-duty degreasers, which made the cleaning experience much more pleasant and left the kitchen smelling fresh.

Best for Disinfecting: Lysol Pro Kitchen Spray Review

For any household where hygiene is the top priority, the Lysol Pro Kitchen Spray Cleaner and Degreaser is the undeniable winner. It offers incredible peace of mind by not only cutting through grease but also killing 99.9% of common kitchen viruses and bacteria, including Salmonella and E. coli.

This is the cleaner I reach for when I need to be certain that a surface is not just visibly clean, but sanitized. It’s the perfect choice after microwaving leftovers or raw ingredients, providing a level of clean that goes beyond the surface.

Specification:
* Product Type: Antibacterial microwave spray & degreaser
* Size: 22 Fl Oz
* Key Action: Kills 99.9% of viruses & bacteria (E. Coli, Salmonella)
* Surface Use: Kitchens, countertops, oven exteriors, appliances
* Scent: Citrus
* EPA Registration #: 777-91

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Powerful Disinfecting Action: The biggest benefit is knowing this cleaner eliminates germs like Salmonella and E. coli. This provides an extra layer of confidence, especially on a food-contact surface like a microwave turntable.
* ✅ Excellent Degreasing Power: It lives up to its “Pro Kitchen” name. It cuts through greasy films, oily splatters, and general grime with minimal effort, making it a true kitchen-wide workhorse.
* ✅ Effectively Deodorizes the Microwave: The fresh citrus scent is strong enough to tackle and neutralize lingering food smells, like burnt popcorn or fish, leaving the microwave smelling clean.
* ✅ Great Value in a Large Bottle: At 22 oz, this bottle offers fantastic value for the money and lasts for a very long time, even with regular use throughout the kitchen.
* ✅ Trusted Brand Name: Lysol is a leader in disinfection, and this product carries that authority, which gives me confidence in its efficacy.
* ✅ Works on Many Kitchen Surfaces: I used it on my countertops, appliance exteriors, and even the highchair tray, making it a versatile cleaning tool.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Rinsing is Required for Food Surfaces: This is a crucial extra step. To use it safely inside a microwave, the instructions state you must rinse the surface with potable water after use. It’s a bit more work.
* ❌ Stronger Chemical Smell: While it is citrus-scented, the underlying chemical smell is more noticeable than in natural cleaners. It’s not overpowering, but it is distinct.
* ❌ Not Ideal for Sensitive Skin: I’d recommend wearing gloves when using this product, as the powerful degreasing agents can be drying to the skin.

Expert’s Experience
Disinfecting Power & Safety: My main reason for choosing this as a category winner is its proven disinfecting capability. After cleaning, I followed the instructions and did a final wipe-down with a clean cloth dampened with water. Workaround: To make this faster, I keep a dedicated “rinsing” microfiber cloth handy. It’s a quick extra step, but it’s absolutely worth it for a fully sanitized surface.

Grease Cutting Performance: This spray performed exceptionally well on oily splatters and the greasy film that can build up inside a microwave. I found it worked almost instantly on fresh grease, requiring very little waiting time. It feels like a true professional-grade kitchen cleaner.

Scent & Residue: The citrus scent is quite strong but pleasant, and it does a fantastic job of odor removal. After following the final water rinse step, it leaves no visible streaks or residue behind, just a clean, fresh surface.

Best Steam Cleaner: HORNO Angry Mama Review

The HORNO Angry Mama Microwave Oven Steam Cleaner is a brilliantly simple and effective gadget for anyone who wants to clean their microwave without chemicals. It’s my top recommendation for an eco-friendly and natural approach, harnessing the pure power of steam to do the hard work for you.

You simply fill it with water and vinegar, and it uses your microwave’s own power to create a cloud of steam that softens even the most stubborn, caked-on food. It turns a job that would require hard scrubbing into a simple wipe-down, all while being completely chemical-free.

Specification:
* Product Type: Steam cleaning gadget
* Size: N/A (holds approximately 1/4 cup each of water/vinegar)
* Key Action: Uses steam to soften crud and stains
* Ingredients: User-added (vinegar, water, optional lemon juice)
* Cleaning Time: 5-7 minutes in the microwave
* Material: BPA-free, dishwasher-safe plastic

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Completely Chemical-Free and Safe: I absolutely love that I control the ingredients. Using just vinegar and water is incredibly safe for a food appliance, eco-friendly, and extremely cost-effective.
* ✅ Effortlessly Loosens Baked-On Grime: The steam is shockingly effective. After a 7-minute cycle, food splatters that had been cooked on for days wiped away with a soft cloth. No scraping needed.
* ✅ Reusable and Exceptionally Durable: This is a one-time purchase that you can use for years. It’s made of sturdy, heat-resistant plastic that is also top-rack dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
* ✅ Fun and Functional Design: It’s a novelty item that genuinely works. The steam venting from “Mama’s” head makes a mundane chore a little more enjoyable, which is a nice bonus.
* ✅ Natural Deodorizer: The vinegar steam does a fantastic job of neutralizing bad odors, and adding a splash of lemon juice leaves a fresh, natural scent.
* ✅ No Risk of Scratching Surfaces: Because you are only using steam and a soft cloth, there is zero risk of scratching the interior of your microwave.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Doesn’t Disinfect Like a Chemical: While vinegar has some mild antimicrobial properties, this steam cleaning method does not disinfect to the same EPA-certified level as an antibacterial spray like Lysol.
* ❌ Requires Microwave Run-Time: The entire process takes 5-7 minutes of microwave time, plus a few minutes of standing time. It is not as fast as a 30-second spray and wipe for a quick cleanup.
* ❌ Can Leave a Vinegar Smell: If you are sensitive to the smell of vinegar, you might notice it lingers for a short while after cleaning. Workaround: Adding a good squeeze of lemon juice to the mix helps to counter the vinegar scent significantly.

Expert’s Experience
Cleaning Method & Effectiveness: I filled the Angry Mama to the clearly marked lines with equal parts white vinegar and water, then added a squeeze of lemon juice for scent. I microwaved it on high for 7 minutes. When I opened the door, the microwave was filled with steam. The result was impressive—the steam had softened everything, even old splatters on the microwave ceiling that I hadn’t been able to remove before. Wiping the entire interior clean took less than a minute.

Ease of Use & Cleanup: It truly couldn’t be simpler. You fill it, microwave it, let it stand for two minutes, and then wipe the microwave down. The best part is that you can just toss the Angry Mama into the dishwasher afterward. There’s no messy cleanup.

Design & Material: The plastic feels surprisingly sturdy and held up perfectly during the high-heat microwaving process and in the dishwasher. The design is whimsical but entirely functional, with the steam venting properly and safely from the designated holes in her head.

Best for Heavy-Duty Cleaning: Easy Off Oven Cleaner Review

When you’re faced with a disastrous microwave mess—think black, carbonized, burnt-on food that seems permanent—you need a nuclear option. The Easy Off Heavy Duty Oven Cleaner is that option. While it’s primarily an oven cleaner, it is the most powerful solution I tested for occasional deep cleaning of truly catastrophic microwave messes.

This is not your everyday cleaner. This is the product you use once or twice a year to restore a neglected microwave to a like-new state. Its powerful foam is unmatched at dissolving the burned-on grease and food that other cleaners simply can’t touch.

Specification:
* Product Type: Heavy-duty aerosol foam
* Size: 14.5 oz
* Key Action: Penetrates tough, burned-on grease and food
* Surface Use: Ovens, oven doors, broilers, stainless steel, BBQ grills
* Activation Time: As little as 3 minutes
* Scent: Strong chemical scent

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unmatched Cleaning Power: This is, without a doubt, the most powerful and effective cleaner I tested for burnt-on messes. It completely dissolved a black, carbonized cheese spill that I thought was a permanent part of the microwave.
* ✅ Works Incredibly Quickly: For its immense strength, it works very fast. I let the foam sit for about 5 minutes on a tough spot, and it was enough to break down the entire mess.
* ✅ Extremely Versatile for Tough Jobs: Its ability to also clean ovens and BBQ grills makes it a valuable tool to have in your arsenal for the toughest cleaning jobs anywhere in your kitchen.
* ✅ Foam Formula Clings to Surfaces: The aerosol foam expands and clings to vertical surfaces and the ceiling of the microwave, allowing it to penetrate grime without dripping down.
* ✅ Truly a ‘No Scrub’ Solution: On the spots I tested, the burnt food genuinely wiped away with a damp sponge. There was no hard scrubbing required at all.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Very Strong and Harsh Fumes: This is NOT a fumeless cleaner. You absolutely must use this in a well-ventilated area. I opened my kitchen windows and turned on the exhaust fan.
* ❌ Requires Extreme Caution and Rinsing: This is a powerful chemical. You have to be very careful to apply it only to approved surfaces and ensure it’s thoroughly wiped and rinsed out of the microwave afterward. It is not for daily use.
* ❌ Not Safe for All Surfaces: It cannot be used on the microwave exterior, control panel, or any plastic or painted parts. It’s for the interior metal and glass surfaces only.

Expert’s Experience
Heavy-Duty Cleaning Power: I used this on an old, neglected microwave in my garage that had several black, carbonized spots from previous food explosions. I sprayed the Easy Off foam directly onto the spots, being careful to avoid any vents or plastic parts. After letting it sit for about 5 minutes, the burnt-on gunk literally liquefied and wiped away with a damp sponge. The performance is genuinely heavy-duty.

Application & Safety: This is a product that demands respect. I wore rubber gloves and made sure the kitchen was well-ventilated. The aerosol can allows for precise application on specific spots. Workaround: A thorough triple-rinse is my non-negotiable rule for this product. I wipe it out once with a wet sponge, a second time with another clean wet sponge, and a final time with a water-dampened paper towel to ensure absolutely no chemical residue is left behind.

Surface Versatility: I appreciate that it’s not a one-trick pony. While I bought it specifically to test on the microwave, I’ve since used it to deep-clean my oven and grill grates with fantastic success. It’s the ultimate problem-solver for burnt-on messes.

Best for Quick Cleanups: MiracleWipes for Microwaves Review

For those who believe the best way to clean is to prevent big messes in the first place, the MiracleWipes for Microwaves and Cooktops are the ultimate convenience product. These wipes are my top pick for daily maintenance and immediate spill cleanup, making it incredibly easy to “clean as you go.”

They are perfect for people who want to wipe up a splatter the second it happens, preventing it from drying and becoming a caked-on problem. Nothing is faster for handling fresh spills, greasy fingerprints on the door, or a quick daily wipe-down.

Specification:
* Product Type: Pre-moistened cleaning wipes
* Count: 30 wipes per canister
* Key Action: Lifts away dirt, splatters, oil, and fingerprints
* Surface Use: Microwaves, cooktops, tile, chrome, granite
* Scent: Fresh scent
* Finish: Streak-free shine

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ The Ultimate Convenience: Nothing beats the speed of pulling a wipe and cleaning a mess in 10 seconds. There is no spraying, waiting, rinsing, or need for paper towels.
* ✅ Surprisingly Effective and Saturated: For their size, each wipe is saturated with enough cleaning solution to handle a decent-sized spill or wipe down the entire microwave interior after a minor mess.
* ✅ Fantastic for Fingerprints and Smudges: These are my go-to for wiping greasy fingerprints and smudges off the microwave door, handle, and control panel. They leave a perfectly clean, streak-free shine.
* ✅ Portable and Easy to Store: The compact canister can be kept right on the counter or in a nearby drawer for immediate access, encouraging quick cleanups.
* ✅ Great Multi-Surface Performance: Just like their spray counterpart, these wipes are great on cooktops, granite counters, and chrome fixtures.
* ✅ Pleasant, Light Scent: The wipes have a light, fresh scent that isn’t overpowering at all.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Not for Heavy-Duty, Baked-On Messes: These wipes are designed for maintenance and fresh spills. They will not be effective at tackling old, carbonized, or heavily baked-on food.
* ❌ Creates More Waste: As a single-use, disposable product, it is inherently less eco-friendly than a reusable spray bottle and cloth or a steam cleaner.
* ❌ Can Dry Out if Not Sealed: You have to be diligent about closing the lid tightly after each use to ensure the remaining wipes stay moist and effective.

Expert’s Experience
Convenience & Portability: The grab-and-go nature is the number one selling point. I kept the canister right next to my microwave, and when a soup splattered, I had it cleaned up in seconds, before it had a chance to dry. This level of ease is habit-forming and is the best way to prevent big cleaning jobs down the line.

Cleaning Performance: The MiracleWipes are very effective on fresh messes and greasy films. I found that one wipe was more than enough to clean the turntable and inside walls after a minor food splatter. They cut through the light grease easily and picked up all the debris.

Versatility & Finish: I found them equally useful for a quick wipe of my granite countertops and for making the chrome handle on the microwave shine. They deliver the same excellent streak-free finish as the MiracleSpray, which is especially noticeable on the glass door and stainless steel accents.

Microwave Cleaner Comparison Chart (2026)

This chart is designed to give you a quick, side-by-side view of how my top picks stack up. For all-around daily cleaning, MiracleSpray is the clear leader. However, if your main concern is killing germs, Lysol is the winner. For those avoiding chemicals entirely, the Angry Mama is an excellent choice, while Easy Off should be reserved for only the most extreme cleaning emergencies. The MiracleWipes shine for pure convenience.

Feature	MiracleSpray	Lysol Pro Spray	HORNO Angry Mama	Easy Off Cleaner	MiracleWipes
Category	Best Overall	Best for Disinfecting	Best Steam Cleaner	Best for Heavy-Duty	Best for Quick Cleanups
Cleaning Method	Spray	Disinfecting Spray	Steam	Heavy-Duty Foam	Wipes
Best For	Daily grease & grime	Sanitizing surfaces	Chemical-free cleaning	Burnt-on, old messes	Instant spill cleanup
Food Safe	Yes	Yes (with rinse)	Yes (natural)	No (requires thorough rinse)	Yes
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Microwave Cleaner

Choosing the right microwave oven cleaner comes down to your cleaning habits, the types of messes you typically face, and your personal preferences regarding chemicals. Here are the key factors I recommend considering to make an informed choice.

• Cleaner Type (Spray, Wipe, or Steam): This is your first major decision.
  • Sprays like MiracleSpray offer the best overall balance of cleaning power, coverage, and value for general-purpose cleaning.
  • Wipes like MiracleWipes are unbeatable for convenience. They are perfect for immediate cleanups and daily maintenance to prevent buildup.
  • Steam gadgets like the Angry Mama are the best choice for users who prioritize natural vs chemical cleaner options and want a completely eco-friendly method.
• Ingredients & Safety: Because you’re cleaning an appliance that cooks your food, safety is critical. Always look for a food-safe microwave cleaner. If you choose a powerful heavy-duty degreaser or disinfectant, you must check the label to see if it requires a post-cleaning rinse with water, as the Lysol Pro Spray does. For households with children, pets, or chemical sensitivities, a natural solution using vinegar and water is the safest bet.

• Type of Mess (Grease vs. Burnt Food): Be realistic about your cleaning needs. For everyday splatters, greasy films, and recent spills, a standard kitchen cleaner like MiracleSpray is more than sufficient. For old, caked-on, carbonized, or burnt food in microwave, you will need a heavy-duty oven cleaner like Easy Off, but it must be used with extreme caution and only for spot-treating.

• Scent & Fumes: Microwave cleaners range from unscented to citrus-scented to powerful chemical smells. If you or someone in your home is sensitive to odors, look for “fumeless” labels or opt for a natural steam solution. A pleasant scent can be a great bonus for deodorizing the microwave, but avoid overly perfumed products that can linger.

• Disinfecting Properties: Do you need to just clean, or do you need to sanitize? Most cleaners will effectively remove grime. However, only products that have an EPA registration number, like the Lysol Pro Spray, are certified to kill viruses and bacteria. This is an important distinction for anyone concerned with kitchen hygiene.

• Surface Versatility: Some products are highly specialized, while others are multi-purpose. A cleaner that can also be used effectively on your stovetop, countertops, or appliance exteriors, like the MiracleSpray and MiracleWipes, can offer better overall value and help reduce clutter under your kitchen sink.

FAQs About Microwave Cleaners

How do I clean the inside of my microwave?

The easiest method is to use a cleaner designed for the job. You can spray a food-safe cleaner like the MiracleSpray for Microwave and Cooktop, let it sit for a minute to soften grime, and then wipe it all clean with a microfiber cloth or paper towel. For a natural approach, you can steam a bowl of water and vinegar for 5-7 minutes before wiping the interior down. Always start by removing the turntable and washing it separately.

Is vinegar safe for cleaning microwaves?

Yes, vinegar is completely safe and very effective for cleaning microwaves. When mixed with water and heated, the acidic steam helps to loosen caked-on food and naturally deodorize the interior. It’s one of the most popular, effective, and chemical-free cleaning methods available. The HORNO Angry Mama gadget makes this process even easier.

How do you clean microwave grease?

To clean grease effectively, you need a dedicated degreaser. A specialized kitchen spray like Lysol Pro Kitchen Spray or MiracleSpray is formulated to break down and dissolve oily and greasy splatters. For best results, apply the cleaner directly to the grease, let it penetrate for about a minute, and then wipe it away firmly with a clean cloth.

How do you remove burnt food from a microwave?

For extremely stubborn burnt food, a heavy-duty cleaner like Easy Off Oven Cleaner is your most powerful option, but it must be used carefully as a spot treatment. For a less intense method, you can try making a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the burnt spot, let it sit for at least an hour (or overnight), and then gently scrub it off with a non-abrasive sponge.

Can you use Windex to clean a microwave?

No, it is not recommended to use Windex or other ammonia-based glass cleaners on the inside of a microwave. These products contain chemicals that are not considered food-safe and should not be used on surfaces where food is heated and prepared. Always stick to cleaners specifically made for kitchen appliances or use natural solutions like vinegar and water.

How do you clean a microwave without chemicals?

The best chemical-free method is steam cleaning. Place a microwave-safe bowl containing 1 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of white vinegar inside your microwave. Heat on high for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid is boiling and the microwave is filled with steam. Let it stand with the door closed for 2-3 more minutes to let the steam work, then carefully remove the hot bowl and wipe the entire interior with a clean cloth.

Is it safe to use Lysol in a microwave?

Yes, it is safe to use Lysol Pro Kitchen Spray in a microwave, but you must follow the manufacturer’s directions precisely. After cleaning with the spray, the surface must be thoroughly rinsed with potable water. I do this by wiping the entire interior down with a clean, water-dampened cloth to remove any and all chemical residue before using the microwave again.

How often should you clean your microwave?

For ideal maintenance and to prevent stubborn buildup, you should give your microwave a quick wipe-down at least weekly. A deep clean should be performed at least once a month, or more often if you have frequent spills. The easiest strategy is to clean splatters as soon as they happen using a convenient product like MiracleWipes.

How do you clean a stainless steel microwave exterior?

For stainless steel exteriors, it’s best to use a cleaner specifically designed for stainless steel or a multi-surface wipe like MiracleWipes to avoid streaks. Always wipe in the direction of the metal’s grain to get the best finish. A simple solution of warm water and a drop of dish soap on a microfiber cloth, followed by drying and polishing with a separate dry cloth, also works very well.

How do you deodorize a microwave?

To deodorize a microwave, steam cleaning with water and either a few tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar is highly effective. The acidic steam neutralizes food odors. For persistent smells, you can also place an open box of baking soda inside the microwave and leave it overnight with the door closed to absorb any lingering odors.

My Final Verdict on the Best Microwave Cleaner

After weeks of testing and comparing, it’s clear that while each cleaner has its strengths, one product stands out as the most practical and effective solution for the majority of people dealing with everyday kitchen messes.

My top recommendation is the MiracleSpray for Microwave and Cooktop. It’s the best overall choice because it offers the perfect combination of powerful grease-cutting performance, a genuinely streak-free finish that leaves glass sparkling, and the versatility to be used on other kitchen surfaces. It’s the workhorse cleaner that will handle 95% of your microwave cleaning needs effortlessly and with a pleasant, fresh scent.

• Perfect for you if… you want a single, powerful spray for both your microwave and cooktop, you hate streaks and smudges on glass, you value a fresh scent over harsh chemical smells, and you want to reduce scrubbing time on daily grime.
• Not ideal for… you need to kill germs and sanitize surfaces, or you are looking for a completely chemical-free or all-natural cleaning solution.

If your absolute top priority is sanitation and killing kitchen bacteria, then the Lysol Pro Kitchen Spray Cleaner and Degreaser is the better choice for you, as long as you are diligent about the required water rinse.

Ultimately, for a brilliantly clean and fresh-smelling microwave with minimal effort, you simply can’t go wrong with the effectiveness and convenience of the MiracleSpray for Microwave and Cooktop.

Last update on 2026-02-21 at 09:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API