Written by Angela Reviewed by Daniel

Your Microwave Plate Is Dirtier Than You Think – Here’s How To Clean It Properly

That spinning glass plate in your microwave might look clean at a glance, but chances are it’s hiding more grime than you realise.

From splattered sauce to dried on grease, microwave plates can collect a surprising amount of invisible mess and if you’re not cleaning it regularly, it could be affecting both hygiene and how your food smells or tastes.

This guide shows you exactly how to clean your microwave plate the right way using simple items you already have at home.

Table of Contents

Why You Need To Clean Your Microwave Plate More Often

Many people give the microwave a quick wipe now and then, but the glass turntable often gets overlooked. Yet it’s the part that comes into contact with containers, bowls and even food spills every single day.

Over time, small splatters can build up and bake onto the surface especially when reheating oily or saucy meals.

Even if it doesn’t look visibly dirty, bacteria and odours can hang around. If left unchecked, the grime can transfer onto fresh plates or leave your microwave smelling musty.

In short, it’s not just about appearance. Regular cleaning is a basic food hygiene must.

The Best Way To Clean A Microwave Turntable Plate

person placing a bowl of food inside a microwave

Thankfully, cleaning your microwave plate is quick and easy with the right approach. Here’s a method that works well:

Remove the glass plate and roller ring from your microwave.
Soak both in warm, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes to loosen any dried on mess.
Use a non scratch sponge or cloth to gently scrub away grease or stains.
For stubborn marks, sprinkle a bit of bicarbonate of soda on the sponge and scrub again.
Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly before putting it back in.

Make sure both the plate and roller are fully dry before returning them. Any leftover moisture can cause a musty smell or even damage your microwave over time.

How Often Should You Clean It?

Ideally, the glass turntable should be cleaned once a week, or sooner if there’s been a spill or splatter.

If you use your microwave daily, especially for messy foods like curry, soup or ready meals, it might need to be wiped down even more often.

Cleaning it regularly helps prevent build up, keeps your food tasting fresh and avoids smells that can linger in the microwave cavity.

It also helps stop bacteria and mould spores from developing in hard to see places.

Can You Put A Microwave Plate In The Dishwasher?

Yes, most microwave turntable plates are dishwasher safe in the UK. Just check the manual for your model if you’re unsure.

You can place it in the lower rack of the dishwasher and wash it with your normal load. Still, soaking it in warm soapy water is often quicker, especially if you need it again within the hour.

Other Microwave Parts You Should Be Cleaning Too

While the plate is important, it’s not the only part that gets dirty. Here’s what else you should be keeping clean:

The microwave walls and ceiling splatters can stick and become hard over time.
The door and buttons can collect greasy fingerprints and bacteria.
The vent or filter area (if your model has one), as this can trap steam, odours and dust.

To clean the inside, try microwaving a bowl of water with lemon slices or vinegar for a few minutes. The steam loosens grime so it’s easier to wipe off.

Show Others How Easy It Is To Keep A Microwave Plate Clean

These time saving cleaning tricks are great for anyone short on time but big on hygiene. Share them online to help friends and family keep their microwave plate looking brand new.

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