The microwave is an appliance that often gets forgotten in cleaning routines, yet its interior can quickly become coated with food residues, grease, and grime, leading to unpleasant odours and a dirty appearance.

Experts have spoken to Express.co.uk exclusively to share their insights on the best technique to sanitise your microwave and how often you should be doing it.

Cleaning pros at method, a plant-based, biodegradable cleaning products brand, explained that to maintain a clean and fresh microwave, you should aim to give it a thorough cleaning periodically if you use it frequently.

They shared: “When it comes to cleaning, the microwave is often an appliance that is overlooked – but over time a build up of food, grease and dirt can leave it smelly and grimy.

“As a rule of thumb, it’s best to give your microwave a thorough spruce at least once a week if you use it daily.”

Start by putting on some rubber gloves and removing the turntable from the microwave.

You can either place it in the dishwasher or let it soak in soapy water for about 10 minutes before allowing it to dry.

Next, spray the inside of the microwave, including the door and walls, with your preferred cleaning product – they recommended Method’s Daily Kitchen Cleaner in Clementine.

Let the cleaner sit for a few moments to break down the grease and grime, then wipe everything clean.

The citrus scent not only helps neutralise odours but also effectively tackles grease and spills, leaving your microwave smelling fresh and vibrant.

Debbie Sandler, an expert in organisation and cleaning, previously lifted the lid on a startling and “nasty” discovery about her microwave in a video posted on Instagram.

A clip uploaded to the platform shows her using a drill to remove the top panel of her over-the-range microwave, exposing a concealed compartment filled with a buildup of old food and sauces.

The revelation left the cleaning pro naturally grossed out, as she realised it was time to give it a good scrub and raise awareness.

“I bet y’all have your mouths open right now… am I right?” the content creator captioned the post. “That was me when I found this out.”

Sandler pointed out that if your microwave is installed above your stovetop, it likely has a similar hidden compartment that requires cleaning.

“It’s probably the nastiest thing in your kitchen”, she said in the video.

She recommended washing the removable top twice a year and replacing the charcoal filter found within this compartment.