Simple 30p method cleans your microwave in just 5 minutes

There's not much worse than opening your microwave to find stubborn stains splattered across the walls and ceiling with dried-on food splashes, greasy spots, and perhaps even that lingering burnt smell that just won't go away. These tough spots can seem impossible to scrub away and often take ages to clean. On top of that, using harsh chemicals in a place where you heat your food isn't ideal, leaving many wondering if there's a safer, easier way to get their microwave spotless.

However, there's a simple, natural solution using an ingredient you likely already have at home. It cleans effectively without spreading any harsh chemicals. Using just a lemon and some water, you can get your microwave sparkling clean within just five minutes.

Begin by squeezing the juice of half a lemon into a microwave-safe bowl containing about half a cup of water. Then, add the squeezed lemon halves to the bowl as well, Emma Christensen from The Kitchn said.

Place the bowl inside the microwave and heat it on high for three minutes. As the water boils, the lemon-infused steam will spread throughout the microwave, loosening stubborn food and grime.

Once the timer goes off, don't open the door right away and let the steam work its magic for about five more minutes with the door closed.

Next, carefully remove the bowl and use a clean cloth to wipe down the inside surfaces of your microwave. For any stubborn spots, simply dip the cloth in the lemon water and scrub gently until the residue comes away easily.

Be sure to give the door a thorough wipe, too, and if your microwave has a removable turntable, take it out to clean separately before putting it back.

This simple, budget-friendly method not only cleans effectively but leaves your microwave smelling fresh and naturally lemony.

A lemon costs 30p at major supermarkets like Sainsbury's, Tesco, and Morrison's, making it much more affordable than buying a cleaning product.

It's a perfect quick fix for keeping your kitchen appliance hygienic without any harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing, which could even leave marks and scratches all over the microwave.