How to clean a microwave: White vinegar hack means that dirt disappears easily in 5 minutes

Cleaning the microwave is a chore many people put off, but cleaning expert Lindsay from Instagram’s @dazlincleaning has a handy tip that gets the job done in “five minutes”. According to Lindsay, the hack is so effective that you don’t have to spend ages scrubbing away stuck-on food, as it will dissolve in the process.

But instead of reaching for an expensive cleaning product, Lindsay recommends using two items you may already have tucked away in your kitchen cupboard.

She told Express.co.uk: “If your microwave needs a clean, pour a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water into a bowl and cover it with cling film. Poke a few holes in the top of the cling film and turn on the microwave for five minutes.”

White vinegar is often recommended for its multi-purpose cleaning in the home thanks to its high levels of acetic acid. Furthermore, the household product is a cheap option, available for as little as 40p from supermarkets such as Sainsbury’s.

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If your microwave has removable components, such as a record player, now is the time to take them out. Lindsay then recommends using a microfiber cloth to wipe down the dirt. She recommends using Marigold’s Let It Shine On & On microfibre cloth, which costs £3.59.

“Give the microwave a wipe and the grime should come off easily now,” she said. Start wiping from the top of the appliance, working your way down the sides and door.

Any burnt-on dirt may need a little extra elbow grease. Then wipe the turntable with the cleaning sponge and wipe it with a clean, dry cloth. Use a clean cloth to polish the microwave dry before replacing all the removable parts.

Why is white vinegar recommended for household cleaning?

White vinegar has many benefits when it comes to cleaning the home. In addition to being cheap to buy from most stores, white vinegar also contains no harsh chemicals or fumes and works well to remove odors rather than just mask them. It is also a great environmentally friendly product.

The acidic nature of vinegar is so powerful that it can dissolve mineral deposits, dirt, grease and grime. It is also strong enough to kill some forms of bacteria. Vinegar can be used to clean stainless steel pots and pans, kitchen sinks, floors, stove tops, bathroom taps and fixtures and the inside of the kettle.

Although it can be used alone for stubborn dirt, vinegar should usually be combined with water. Although white vinegar is a versatile natural cleaner, it’s a good idea to test it on a small patch before using it on certain surfaces.