The popular trick of using lemon and steam to clean a microwave does work, according to reporting by Martha Stewart. The method softens stuck-on food residue and leaves the appliance smelling fresh, and it serves as an eco-friendly alternative to commercial cleaning products.
Jacqueline Janus, owner of Two Chicks and a Broom, said steam does most of the heavy lifting. She noted that a bowl of plain water would clean a microwave the same way, and that lemon simply adds extra effectiveness to the process. Becky Rapinchuk, founder of Clean Mama, added that essential oils in the lemon rind give the microwave a fresh scent.
How to Do It
For stubborn burnt-on residue, eco-cleaning expert Leslie Reichert recommended a pre-treatment step. She said she starts with a lemon half dipped in salt, which provides a gentle scrubbing effect while the lemon softens tough spots. For very stubborn stains, she suggested making a paste from lemon juice and baking soda, applying it to the residue, leaving it for 10 minutes, then gently scraping it off. She cautioned against adding dish soap, as it can be difficult to rinse away completely.
For the steam phase, squeeze one lemon into a microwave-safe bowl, add about one cup of water, and drop in the lemon halves. Rapinchuk said bottled lemon juice works in a pinch. Heat the mixture on full power until it steams, then continue for about 30 more seconds. Leave the door closed for around five minutes, then wipe the interior with a microfiber cloth. Rapinchuk said heating for three to five minutes, or until condensation appears on the microwave door, is usually enough. Reichert advised watching the bowl to make sure the water does not boil away entirely.
