Raise your hand if you’ve ever been personally victimized by a disgusting microwave? It might have been that communal microwave in your office that no one will go near. Or maybe you’ve cracked open your own microwave only to be horrified by the sight (and smell) of food splatters all over its shiny interior. It only takes one plate of leftover lasagna to take your microwave from bright and shiny to greasy and grimy. Lucky for you, there’s a simple and effective cleaning method that will make all your microwave woes go away. Read on to learn how to clean your microwave using a kitchen pantry staple: vinegar.

How Often Should You Clean Your Microwave

In order to avoid a scary microwave situation, it’s best to give it a quick clean every week or whenever visible splattering occurs. While this might seem like overkill, regular cleaning will prevent you from having to do more scrubbing later. Not to mention a dirty microwave can be harboring a plethora of germs, and leftover food bits could be contaminating whatever you’re nuking today. Cleaning your microwave regularly not only prevents unsightly splatters but it’s also an important part of keeping your kitchen germ-free.

Here’s What You’ll Need

Microwave-safe glass bowl or 2-cup glass measuring cup
1 cup water
1 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
Several lemon or lime slices or lemon/lime juice
Toothpick or wooden spoon
Sponge
Dish soap
Paper towel