Microwave options in kitchen design are worth discussing because of the drastic changes that have taken place in this appliance over the past 30 years. It is now a major fixture for most kitchens, and there are many different types and styles to choose from. So, worry no more, in this article we have presented some great ideas about Microwave Options.
Nowadays, microwave ovens have become essential appliances in kitchen design, and 90% of Americans have microwaves in their kitchen. Microwaves can be mounted on or under the countertop or installed as part of an overhead cabinet system.
Keep it in mind! If you’re going to put your microwave somewhere, you have to consider safety, convenience, and appearance. So, look at different designs, plan and weigh your options.
Microwaves Options in Kitchen – What to Consider?
It would be best to consider the following facts to choose the best microwave option in your kitchen. So, let’s dig into it!
Safety First!
The first thing that comes into consideration regarding the location of your microwave is safety. Microwave radiation should not be pointed at people or pets when it is operating. Therefore, keep these points in mind:
Keep children and animals away from microwave doors while the appliance is operating since even though the door opens outward, microwaves can escape through air holes located around the edge of this opening; choose a wall with no obstructions located directly behind where you want to put your microwave; put your microwave so that the front of it faces a wall.
Visual Appeal
The second thing to keep in mind is your taste and preferences. Before you choose a location for your microwave, think about how it can fit into the rest of your kitchen design. Some people prefer to keep their microwave off-center on a wall while others like centered appliances. Keeping these factors in mind will help you find an area that suits both your personal tastes and the overall look and feel of your kitchen, as well as its functionality.
Convenience
The third thing to consider is convenience. The microwave oven should be located out of the way of traffic but easily accessible, at least within arm’s reach. So, take into consideration things like where your traffic patterns will be during meal preparation and cleanup; how easy it will be for you to get around while you are working with food and pots and pans on the stovetop (if you have one);
How often do you use your microwave? Is it convenient if not used too often because it will add extra steps to your cooking process every time you use it? Some people prefer keeping their microwaves above eye level to see what they’re doing easier when using them.
Size
The fourth thing to consider is matching the size of your microwave with your needs. You need to consider whether or not the microwave will extend over the edge of where you want to put it if there’s no cabinet above it.
Also, if the microwave will extend over the edge of where you want to put it, you need to consider whether you should ever decide to change your countertops or cabinets. Think about these things before deciding on a location for your microwave oven.
Take Care of Your Microwave!
The fifth thing is, don’t forget about safety! The heating element can be boiling when cooking, so let’s take a look at what you can do to keep yourself safe:
So, if you’re going to take care of your microwave, make sure that you care about all the details. If the door doesn’t close completely, use aluminum foil or a paper towel roll to ensure no gaps where light or heat could escape. On rare occasions, we might need a little extra heat for some buttered toast! You will be glad that you did in the long run.
7 Top Microwave Options in Kitchen Design 2021:
You’ve got your long-term microwave storage strategy in place, but what about some good short-term solutions that might help you out a bit? Here are 7 top microwave options for smaller meals now and then.
1. Above the Cabinet Next to Your Dishwasher:
Above the cabinet next to your dishwasher is a good location to put your microwaves. This will allow you easy access when placing the dishes inside the dishwasher and using your microwaves.
Depending on where you put microwaves in this area, it may also be useful for storing plates and bowls that don’t fit into cabinets or drawers – like coffee cups, mugs, cereal boxes, etc.
2. Above the Stove:
Above the stove is a great choice that many others like to put their microwaves on because this allows easy access as you’re preparing meals.
This can be a good location for your microwave if you do not have many cabinets or counter space under the overhead cabinets. If you are short on storage space, it can also be good to put microwaves above stoves because it allows ample room for storing frequently used items such as cooking utensils and ingredients in boxes below.
3. On a shelf above your oven:
Some people like to put their microwaves on a shelf above their oven because it keeps them close by as you’re preparing meals, especially if the counter is already taken up with your stovetop.
This option is good if you have a short counter space between the stovetop and your overhead cabinets. It can also be helpful for those who store supplies in boxes or containers below, as microwaves above ovens usually do not block access to the counter space where you prepare meals.
4. In a Corner of Your Kitchen Island:
You can put microwaves in the corner of your kitchen island. This can be a good option if you don’t have much counter space under your cabinets or if the overhead cabinets are already full.
An island is a great location for microwaves because they will not take up valuable real estate otherwise used by other kitchen appliances such as coffee makers and blenders.
5. Near the Refrigerator for Convenience:
If you have a small apartment or kitchen, it’s not unreasonable to put microwaves near the refrigerator for convenience. This option might be good for those who have limited counter space or cabinets underneath the oven if you do not wish to put a microwave on top of your refrigerator or in a corner.
Some of them also like to put microwaves near their refrigerator if they have a small apartment or kitchen because it can reduce the length of time to walk back and forth from stovetop to table.
6. Under the Cabinet:
Under the cabinet is an excellent option if you do not have a lot of space for kitchen appliances and groceries. It can also be a good location to store cleaning supplies or other items that need refilling.
Putting your microwave under the cabinet can be a good choice if you don’t have access to many countertops because this will allow more kitchen space on top of your counters for food preparation. Of course, this placement can also be good for those who have limited storage space in their kitchens.
7. In The Pantry to Keep it Out of Sight:
For small kitchens, putting microwaves in the pantry can be a good solution because it allows you to keep your kitchen tidy with less clutter on display.
If you do not have a lot of space next to or above your stove or counters, then this is an excellent choice for a man. You may also want to place microwaves in the pantry for occasional use and will not get heavy usage since less frequent access means easier clean up (and more time spent doing other things than cleaning).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – You Must Know
What kind of microwave goes in a cabinet?
Several different types of microwaves can fit in a cabinet. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, you have three main options: countertop microwaves, over-the-range microwaves, and built-in microwaves. The most important factor in selecting a microwave for cabinet installation is how wide your bottom cabinets are.
Where is the best place to put a microwave in the kitchen?
There are many options for the best location for a microwave in your kitchen to answer this question. It will be determined by a combination of factors such as available counter space, cabinet storage, and personal preference. The best way to find the right location is to determine your needs based on the above options.
What is an alternative to a microwave?
If you live with other persons, then having too many microwaves might create some problems. In this case, it’s better to buy a countertop convection oven to cook food. Its design looks like a regular oven, but it has a perfect size so that you can set it on your countertop. If you are limited in space for appliances, this option might be a good idea.
Does the microwave need ventilation?
Some people prefer to put their microwave in the pantry or underneath a cabinet for increased food safety. Safety is another concern when putting your microwave in a cabinet because heating food increases the risk of toxic gases. You should always provide adequate ventilation by using a microwave vent hood or installing an exhaust fan to reduce this risk.
Final Thoughts!
A microwave is an essential appliance in most kitchens. With so many options to choose from, the decision can be overwhelming and difficult. We’ve created a list of considerations based on the pros and cons you should make before deciding which one best suits your needs and lifestyle. Hopefully, this blog post has helped you narrow down what type of microwave will work for your kitchen design 2021!