How to Remove a Yellow Stain from a Microwave

Quck answer

To get a yellow stain out of a microwave, follow these simple steps:

1. Mix one part water with one part white vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl.

2. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for five minutes. This will create steam that will help loosen the stain.

3. After the five minutes are up, carefully remove the bowl using oven mitts or a towel. Be cautious as the bowl and steam will be hot.

4. Wipe down the interior of the microwave with a clean cloth or sponge. The yellow stain should come off easily.

5. If the stain persists, repeat the process or try using a mild dish soap to scrub the area gently.

Remember to always unplug the microwave before cleaning it to ensure safety.


Dealing with a dirty, yellow microwave when you’re about to heat up your lunch or coffee is not pleasant. If you’re struggling to get rid of the smell after microwaving fish or if there’s a yellow stain inside the microwave, there are a few tricks you can use to restore this useful small kitchen appliance back to its original condition in just a few seconds.


How to Remove a Yellow Stain from a Microwave
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AndreyPopov/iStock/GettyImages

Removing Yellow Stains

When bags of popcorn spend too much time spinning in the microwave, they can leave behind yellow stains on the microwave’s interior. Oils, mustards, or other sauces that contain turmeric can also quickly create yellow stains on the porous plastic material of the microwave. To easily remove these stains, cut a fat lemon into slices and place them in a microwaveable bowl. Add a tablespoon of baking soda and microwave it on high for two minutes. Let it sit for a few minutes to release steam into the microwave cavity. Then, scrub the walls and ceiling of the microwave. If the stains are stubborn, you can also try using vinegar to remove them.

Burn Marks in the Microwave

The brownish blazes or spots that appear on the sides and ceiling of the microwave are signs of heavy use. If the metal grate is not properly fitted into the clips of the microwave, it may brush against the sides and cause sparks that leave scorch marks. Never use a rack that did not come with your microwave, as the rack is specifically designed for that appliance and should not cause sparks if properly fitted into its clips. As soon as scorch marks appear, clean them off. You can make a paste using baking soda and vinegar or lemon juice and scrub the marks until they disappear. If the scorch marks are severe, it may take a few attempts to remove them completely.

General Cleaners for Microwave Stains

Before resorting to harsh chemicals that may affect the food-friendly nature of the appliance, try using gentle abrasives and household cleaning agents. Baking soda and lemon juice are effective in maintaining a clean microwave and preventing yellow stains from accumulating from sauces, burritos, and breakfast items. If you have tough stains, make a paste using baking soda and vinegar, and apply it in a thick layer on the stain for 20 minutes to pull out the yellow stain from the plastic interior of the microwave.

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