Cleaning can be a tricky and laborious job, but one fan has shared an easy method for cleaning microwaves without the need for any major scrubbing. Former champion Nancy Birtwhistle recently appeared on to speak about the cleansing powers of lemons.

Lemons can be used in a variety of ways, including cleaning the inside of appliances like microwaves. Not only can it help get rid of tough food splattered on the inside, but it can also help rid them of any "funky" smells. All you need is a few slices of lemon and a bowl of water.

In a recent video uploaded to , This Morning wrote: "Is your microwave smelling funky? This simple hack is the easiest way to freshen up your microwave... and all you need is a lemon slice and a bowl of water!"

So, how does it work? Nancy told hosts Cat Deely and Ben Shephard: "I've got here a couple of halves (of lemon), a bowl of water. Now, when it comes to your microwave, if something's splattered all over in there... Or if you've maybe heated something, maybe a curry, something like that, you open the door and you think, 'Oh, god, that's knocking me back!'

"All you need to do is, bowl of water... With my spent lemons in, two or three minutes, 'til you see that water bubbling. Leave the door closed."

Nancy explained that the steaming lemon water will help soften any bits of burnt food stuck to the inside of the microwave. She continued: "So then you can open your door, wipe it all down, fabulous."

The lemon juice acts as a natural cleaner and deodoriser, breaking down grease and eliminating odours.

Lemons' acid nature is what helps break down grease and grime, in turn making it easier to wipe away. Lemon scent can also help get rid of unwanted smells.

Noah Pinsonnault, from Institute's Home Care & Cleaning Lab, said: "It humidifies the inside of the microwave, softening stuck-on food. The fragrance from the lemon can also help to mask or get rid of odors that may be present."