Should You Be Cleaning Your Microwave Filter? An Expert Weighs In

Did you know microwaves have filters—and that you should be cleaning yours? Recently, viral TikTok and Instagram videos have shown homeowners removing and cleaning their microwave filters. And based on the comments, most people had no idea the filters even existed—let alone that they should be removed and cleaned.

Of course, not all viral cleaning hacks are worth your time. So we decided to dig into this trend to determine whether this is a legit household chore you should add to your regular cleaning schedule, or whether it’s just a passing fad. Here's everything you didn’t know you needed to know about cleaning the microwave—including the often-overlooked filters, and what could happen if they're neglected.

What Is a Microwave Filter, and Where Do I Find It? 

There are two types of microwave filters: Grease filters and charcoal filters. Most microwaves have both, as they work together to keep the appliance working efficiently, but they have different functions.

“The microwave grease filter keeps debris (including grease) from entering your microwave’s vent system," says Bree Lemmen, brand manager for Whirlpool Kitchen. "This ensures that the exhaust fan on over-the-range models is circulating clean air into your kitchen as you use your microwave and oven range."

Grease filters are designed to prevent grease and other cooking by-products from entering the ventilation system. Charcoal filters are often used in recirculating venting systems, and their primary function is to absorb odors and combat unwanted smells.

Check your user manual to determine how many filters your microwave has, what kind they are, and where they are located within the microwave. Filter placement varies by brand and model, but they usually are on the back wall or above or below the cooking surface. 

Do You Need to Clean or Replace Your Microwave Filters?

The short answer is yes—you do need to clean your microwave filters. “Filters play a key role in the microwave’s functionality, so without proper maintenance, the build-up on the filters could hinder its performance,” Lemmen says. “It may also lead to an increase in strong odors in the kitchen, as these filters help combat unwanted smells.”

Grease filters need cleaning regularly to prevent grease buildup from clogging up, reducing their effectiveness and creating dirty air. While this isn’t something you can see, it is something you will smell and breathe in.

How to Clean or Replace Your Microwave Filter

Don’t blindly follow the TikTok filter-cleaning hacks, as you could end up damaging your microwave. Instead, here’s how Lemmen recommends cleaning and replacing your microwave filters.

How to Clean Grease Filters:

1. Turn off the microwave and remove the filter (found underneath the appliance); it should gently pop out without using tools. 
2. Soak the grease filter in warm, soapy water for at least 10 minutes and scrub with a dish brush or sponge. 
3. Once clean, thoroughly rinse the filter and let it dry completely before reinserting it in the microwave. 

How to Replace Charcoal Filters:

1. Turn off the microwave.
2. Use a screwdriver to remove the vent panel and gently remove and dispose of the old charcoal filter before replacing it with a new one. 
   

How Often to Clean or Replace Microwave Filters

The more you use your microwave, the more you’ll need to clean and replace the filters. According to Whirlpool, if you use your microwave a moderate amount—say, 2-3 times per week—you should clean your grease filter every three months. If you frequently use the microwave and heat a lot of greasy food, you should clean the filter monthly.

Charcoal filters can't be cleaned, so they will need to be replaced instead. You’ll probably know when their time is up, as you’ll notice some unpleasant odors in your kitchen when the microwave is in use. When a charcoal filter is clogged up with grease, it’ll eventually stop absorbing odors and grease altogether. “These filters are more important for hoods and over-the-range microwaves that are recirculated vs. vented outside of the home,” Lemmen says.

According to Lemmen, if you regularly use your microwave, you should replace the charcoal filter approximately every six months. However, the best way to know when to replace the filter is to check it and see how much grease build-up is on it. If it looks shiny and greasy, it’s probably time.