How to Keep Your Microwave Odour Free: Tips and Tricks

Say no to lingering smells with simple cleaning hacks and natural solutions for deodorising microwaves. Keep your microwave odour free with easy tips that ensure long-lasting performance.
Explore Microwaves
3 min
20-Mar-2025
A microwave is one of the most used kitchen appliances, making it prone to lingering food odours. Spills, splatters, and burnt food particles can cause unpleasant smells that affect your cooking experience. Ignoring these odours can make them worse, transferring unwanted flavours to your meals. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help keep your microwave smelling fresh.

Browse through a wide selection of microwaves on Bajaj Mall, featuring a variety of models from the manufacturer. Browse through detailed product specifications and reviews to make an informed decision. For more options, visit any of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores in 4,000 cities. Explore top brands, select your preferred model, and benefit from Easy EMI and zero down payment options, exclusively with Bajaj Finserv.

Identifying common causes of microwave odours

Food residue, grease, and spills are some of the most common causes of microwave odours. When food splatters inside, it sticks to the walls and emits a foul smell over time. Burnt food particles that are not cleaned immediately can leave behind an unpleasant, persistent odour. Using your microwave to heat strong-smelling foods like fish, garlic, or spicy dishes can also contribute to bad smells. Additionally, improper ventilation and moisture buildup inside the microwave can worsen the issue. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keeping odours at bay. Using microwave-safe covers and wiping down spills immediately can prevent odours from becoming a long-term problem. Learn more about the best microwave ovens in India on Bajaj Mall.

Effective cleaning methods for a fresh microwave

Cleaning methodDescription
Lemon steam cleaningCut a lemon in half, squeeze the juice into a bowl of water, and microwave it for 5 minutes. The steam helps loosen grime, making it easy to wipe away.
Vinegar solutionMix equal parts of water and vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it for 5 minutes, then wipe the interior with a cloth.
Baking soda scrubMake a paste using baking soda and water. Apply it to tough stains and scrub with a sponge.
Dish soap and waterPlace a bowl of warm water with dish soap inside the microwave. Heat it for 2 minutes, then clean the walls with a damp cloth.
Charcoal odour absorberPlace a small bowl of activated charcoal inside the microwave overnight to absorb lingering smells.


Check out 28 litre microwaves to learn about how they are ideal for gatherings or family dinners.

Natural deodorising solutions for microwave smells

Lemon and water: Lemons contain natural oils that break down odours. Squeeze half a lemon into a bowl of water and heat it for 5 minutes. The steam will loosen grease, making it easier to clean.

Vinegar and baking soda: This combination neutralises odours effectively. Place a small bowl of vinegar inside the microwave for an hour, then wipe the interior with a baking soda solution.

Coffee grounds: Used coffee grounds absorb strong smells. Place dry coffee grounds in a bowl and leave them inside the microwave overnight.

Cinnamon and cloves: Heat a bowl of water with cinnamon sticks and cloves for a pleasant, spicy aroma.

Vanilla extract: Add a few drops of vanilla extract to a bowl of water and heat it for 30 seconds. This will leave your microwave smelling fresh.

Discover convection microwave ovens to learn more about their features and specifications.

Preventive tips to maintain an odour-free microwave

Prevention methodExplanation
Use a coverAlways cover food with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel to prevent spills and splatters.
Clean regularlyWipe down the interior after each use to prevent grease and residue buildup.
Avoid strong-smelling foodsIf possible, heat pungent foods like fish or garlic in an open area to reduce odours.
Keep the door openLet the microwave air out for a few minutes after use to prevent moisture and smell buildup.
Use baking sodaKeep a small bowl of baking soda inside when the microwave is not in use to absorb odours.


Considering an upgrade? Check out microwave oven features to ensure you make an informed decision

Explore microwaves on EMI with Bajaj Finserv

For those seeking a dependable and efficient microwave oven, you can explore a versatile range of advanced models on Bajaj Mall. Once you have reviewed all the product details, simply visit your nearest Bajaj Finserv partner store to select your preferred model. With financing options from Bajaj Finserv, you can easily purchase your favourite products without worrying about the budget. Additionally, you have the flexibility to choose a convenient repayment tenure, allowing you to settle the cost in affordable Easy EMIs. Bajaj Finserv also offers financing solutions on electronics.

Advantages of shopping using Bajaj Finserv’s financing options

  • Affordable pricing: Get a microwave at a budget-friendly price from any Bajaj Finserv partner store, making your finances easier.
  • Easy EMIs: Purchase a microwave with flexible repayment plans and spread the cost over convenient Easy EMIs.
  • Zero down payment: Select microwaves come with a zero down payment option, allowing you to buy without any upfront costs.
  • Wide range and accessibility: Browse through a vast collection of microwaves available across various Bajaj Finserv partner stores.
  • Complimentary home delivery: Get free home delivery on selected microwaves, adding to the convenience of your shopping experience.

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Frequently asked questions

How to stop a microwave from smelling?
Regular cleaning and proper ventilation help prevent bad odours from building up inside your microwave. After each use, wipe the interior with a damp cloth to remove food splatters and spills. Leaving the microwave door open for a few minutes after cooking allows air circulation, reducing trapped smells.

What to put in your microwave to make it smell better?
Natural ingredients like lemon, baking soda, and vanilla extract are effective in eliminating unpleasant smells from your microwave. Heating a bowl of water with fresh lemon slices helps cut through greasy odours and leaves a refreshing citrus scent.

How can I freshen the inside of my microwave?
To freshen up your microwave, start by wiping down the interior with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water. Heating a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes will loosen stuck-on grime and eliminate odours. After heating, let the steam sit inside for a few minutes before wiping it clean with a cloth.

How to remove burning smell from microwave?
A burning smell in the microwave can be tough to eliminate, but baking soda is a powerful odour absorber. Place a bowl of baking soda inside the microwave overnight to neutralise the burnt smell. Activated charcoal or coffee grounds in an open container can also help absorb stubborn odours.

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