How to Clean a Microwave*

For some of us, a clean microwave is crucial for daily meal prep. Here’s how to clean your microwave with Pine-Sol® and a simple tip for reducing burnt food odors and everyday stains when used as directed. 

If your microwave just needs a little refresh, give it a quick steam. Just combine a lemon’s worth of juice (or a cup of vinegar) along with a cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl and heat the solution on high power for 5 minutes. Keep your microwave closed for a few minutes, then wipe down the interior with a damp cloth.  

Of course, if you need to give your microwave a deeper cleaning inside and out, it’s time to break out the Pine-Sol® Multi-Surface Cleaner. 

TIP: Be sure to check whether you’re using our new concentrated Pine-Sol® formula or the old non-concentrated formula, as that will determine your dilution ratio. See the chart below and get your ratios right!

Supplies

  • lemon-fresh-cleaner
  • measuring-cup Measuring cup
  • bucket Bucket
  • sponge Sponge

Steps

  1. Step 1 Wipe down the inside surfaces of the microwave with a damp sponge soaked in hot water and a little scented Pine-Sol® Multi-Surface Cleaner. Wipe down with water for a streak-free finish.
  2. Step 2 Sponge down the outside of our microwave with a mixture of about ⅛ cup Pine-Sol® Multi-Surface Cleaner to a gallon of water. Wipe down with water for a streak-free finish.

With an improved concentrated formula that is 2x as strong* to last 2x as long*, you can use less for the same great clean.

concentrated formula Non-concentrated formula
¼ cup in 2 gallons water ½ cup in 2 gallons water
⅛ cup in 1 gallon water ¼ cup in 1 gallon water
¹⁄₁₆ cup or 1 tablespoon in ½ gallon water ⅛ cup in ½ gallon water
have a question about pine-sol®? view our faqs
  1. * When used as directed.
PINE-SOL® BY THE NUMBERS
  • 2X concentrated
    formula*
    Tackle more messes per bottle.*
  • 5x cleaning
    action
    Odor, grease, grime, dirt & allergens.
  • removes 99% of allergens§
    Destroy dust mites & pet dander.
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  • * vs. previous Pine-Sol® Pine/Scented Formula when used as directed
  • When diluted as directed vs previous Original Pine-Sol® Multi-Surface Cleaner.
  • § Non-living dust mite matter and pet dander