Microwaves are super convenient tools and are a major staple of any household. These appliances come in many styles, but a microwave drawer takes the convenience of it and amplifies it to a whole new level!
Microwave drawers usually fit flush into a lower cabinet under the counter, on a kitchen island, or underneath a wall oven, providing a sleek look. But that's not the only thing they provide — there are other benefits, too!
Before you decide on getting one, let's go over the pros and cons of microwave drawers!
More Accessible
A crucial benefit of microwave drawers is that they are more accessible than any other model. That's because these microwaves open like a regular drawer, so you don't have to reach up high with a heavy plate. And it's usually installed in places that aren't higher than your average countertop.
So, if you're left-handed, of petite stature, use a wheelchair, or have extensive back problems, a microwave drawer is the easiest to access!
Saves Counter Space
Did you know a regular countertop microwave can take up to four square feet of preparation space? That's a lot! And if you already don't have enough counter space for all your things, a hulking microwave isn't the answer. Luckily, a microwave drawer is a built-in appliance that fits flush with your cabinetry, so you won't take up any extra counter space!
Easy to Clean
Cleaning your kitchen is already a big undertaking, especially if you have to take extra care with your microwave. But with a microwave drawer, you won't have to spend so much time scrubbing off caked-on food. The overall microwave drawer design doesn't feature other crevices or nooks for food to stick to, so all you have to do is wipe it down with a cleaner, and you're done.
And the best part is the angle of the microwave drawer helps keep spills to a minimum!
Kid-Proof
You might think that the more accessible access to the microwave will make it easier for kids to mess with it. But that's not true! Like other microwaves with a child lock setting, some microwave drawers will feature a lock/unlock button, making it harder for your kids to open it. Some models will even let you set up a passcode to open it instead!
Sleek Good Looks
As we said, a microwave drawer will help improve your kitchen design! Since it's built into the cabinetry, you'll have a sleeker, more modern look in your kitchen without using a bulky trim kit on a regular convection microwave. And you can choose to install it almost anywhere, including your kitchen island, between the cabinets, in the scullery, large pantry, kitchenette, or home bar!
Maximizes Cooking Space
If you've seen the cubic feet available on a microwave drawer, you might feel less than impressed. Most top out at 1.2 cubic feet of space, but that doesn't mean they can't fit all you need. Since they don't have a turntable eating up space and the walls are sleek and straight, you can easily fit a full dinner plate or baking dish!
You'll be able to use most of those cubic feet to your advantage. And since some microwave drawers have a taller profile, you can also fit taller items!
The Con of Microwave Drawers
Even with all these benefits, there are a few drawbacks to microwave drawers, including:
- No turntable function since they don't require one to heat your food thoroughly.
- They require professional installation since they're built-in appliances.
- Tend to have pricier models than a standard countertop microwave.
- You might have to bend to see the controls if you're too tall.
- It might not be able to fit an entire casserole dish to cook.
When should you get a microwave drawer?
Have you decided to buy a microwave drawer? Great! But when is the best time to get one? That depends. But since a microwave drawer requires a more complex installation, the best time to get a microwave drawer is when you're remodeling your kitchen or planning a new home build.
This way, you can plan for the best space to put it in, so it doesn't interfere with the flow of your kitchen design. And while you're planning, you can also see what other built-in appliances you might want to upgrade to!
So, if you're ready to give your kitchen the makeover over your dreams, we can help! At , we have various cooking appliances from major name brands — including plenty of built-in models! And if you have any questions, give us a call or stop by — our team is always ready to help!