Finding the perfect spot for your microwave can transform your kitchen from cluttered to chic. Let’s dive into some smart storage ideas that will help you reclaim your countertop space and enhance your kitchen’s functionality.
1. Built-In Microwave Cabinet
One of my favorite methods is integrating the microwave into the cabinetry. This approach not only saves counter space but also gives your kitchen a seamless look. I’ve done this in several projects, and it always results in a polished, professional finish.
Items that may come in handy:
- Trim Kit for Built-in Microwave: A trim kit enhances the look of your built-in microwave, providing a seamless integration with cabinetry.
- Cabinet Shelving Brackets: Securely support your built-in microwave with durable cabinet shelving brackets.
- Ventilation System for Microwaves: Ensure proper ventilation for your built-in microwave with a reliable ventilation system.
2. Microwave Drawer in the Island
Installing a microwave drawer in your island is a game-changer. It provides easy access without taking up counter space. I’ve seen this work wonders in smaller kitchens, offering both accessibility and style.
Check if these fit your needs:
- Microwave Drawer: A convenient microwave solution that fits seamlessly into your kitchen island, saving counter space and adding a modern touch.
- Kitchen Island Cabinetry: Stylish cabinetry designed to accommodate a microwave drawer, enhancing kitchen aesthetics and storage.
- Under Cabinet Lighting: LED lighting to install under counters, providing better visibility and a contemporary look for your island setup.
3. Over-the-Range Microwave
Mounting the microwave over the range is a classic space-saving solution. It doubles as a vent hood, which is perfect for smaller kitchens. This option streamlines the cooking area, making it both practical and stylish.
Explore these options:
- Over-the-Range Microwave Bracket: A sturdy mounting bracket designed to support over-the-range microwaves, helping to securely mount it above the stove.
- Microwave Charcoal Filter: A charcoal filter for over-the-range microwaves that helps reduce odors, ensuring effective ventilation.
- LED Under Cabinet Lighting: Energy-efficient LED lighting for better visibility in your cooking area, perfect for installing under the cabinet with the microwave.
4. Recessed Microwave in the Wall
If you’re up for a little renovation, consider recessing your microwave into a wall. This solution creates a custom look without sacrificing any counter or cabinet space. I’ve used this trick to great effect in open-plan kitchens.
A few choices to try:
- Microwave Trim Kit: Enhance the look of your recessed microwave with a trim kit for a seamless, professional appearance.
- In-Wall Recessed Microwave Bracket: Securely install your microwave within the wall using a sturdy in-wall bracket for safe integration.
- Compact Built-In Microwave: Opt for a compact built-in microwave suitable for wall integration, saving space in your kitchen.
5. Microwave on a Movable Cart
For those who value flexibility, placing your microwave on a movable cart can be a great option. It allows you to reposition the appliance as needed, which can be handy during large gatherings. I’ve recommended this to clients who love to entertain.
Useful items to consider:
- Movable Kitchen Cart: A versatile kitchen cart that provides mobility and additional storage space for your microwave and other appliances.
- Bamboo Cutting Board: A durable bamboo cutting board that fits perfectly on top of a cart, offering extra workspace or a serving area.
- Heavy-Duty Appliance Slider: An appliance slider designed to easily move heavy kitchen equipment, improving the flexibility and functionality of your cart setup.
6. Hide It Behind Cabinet Doors
For a minimalist look, consider hiding the microwave behind cabinet doors. This keeps your kitchen looking tidy and uniform. It’s a favorite choice among my clients who prefer a clutter-free aesthetic.
Some handy options:
- Sliding Cabinet Door Hardware Kit: A sliding cabinet door hardware kit allows easy access to your microwave while keeping it hidden when not in use.
- Microwave Trim Kit: A trim kit ensures your microwave sits flush within your cabinetry, providing a seamless look.
- Cabinet Door Soft Close Hinges: Soft close hinges prevent cabinet doors from slamming, adding a touch of luxury to your kitchen.
7. Integrate with Other Appliances
Grouping the microwave with other built-in appliances can create a cohesive look. This works particularly well when designing a modern kitchen with a wall oven. I’ve found it to be a great way to save space and enhance functionality.
These products might be useful:
- Built-In Microwave Trim Kit: A built-in microwave trim kit helps achieve a seamless look when installing the microwave alongside other appliances, providing a professional and cohesive finish.
- Cabinet Mounting Bracket for Microwaves: This mounting bracket allows you to securely integrate your microwave into cabinetry, saving counter space and enhancing the kitchen’s modern aesthetic.
- Microwave Oven Combo Unit: A combination microwave oven unit offers integrated functionality, allowing both baking and microwaving in a unified space-efficient appliance.
8. Use an Upper Shelf
Placing the microwave on an upper shelf can free up valuable counter space. This solution is ideal for those who don’t use the microwave frequently. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep your kitchen organized.
Give these a look:
- Wall-Mounted Microwave Shelf: A sturdy wall-mounted shelf designed specifically for supporting microwave ovens, freeing up counter space.
- Adjustable Kitchen Storage Shelves: Durable and adjustable shelves to customize your kitchen storage, perfect for securely holding a microwave.
- Heavy Duty Shelf Brackets: Strong and reliable brackets to install a secure shelf for your microwave storage needs.
9. Corner Counter Placement
Consider tucking your microwave into a corner of your countertop. This underutilized space can be perfect for a small appliance. It’s a practical solution I’ve used in L-shaped kitchens to maximize space.
May just do the trick:
- Corner Shelf Storage Rack: A corner shelf storage rack can help you utilize the underutilized corners of your kitchen counter, perfect for placing small appliances like microwaves.
- Countertop Mat: A countertop mat provides a stable base for your microwave and protects your countertop from scratches and heat damage.
- Cord Organizer for Appliances: Keep your microwave’s cord neatly managed with a cord organizer, ensuring a tidy and clutter-free countertop.
10. On Top of the Fridge
If you’re really tight on space, placing the microwave on top of the fridge can work. It keeps it out of the way while still being accessible. Just ensure there’s enough ventilation to prevent overheating.
You might give these a try:
- Microwave Stand with Anti-Slip Pads: A microwave stand with anti-slip pads provides stability and ensures safety when placing the microwave on top of the fridge.
- Heat Resistant Mat: A heat resistant mat protects the top of your fridge from heat damage and ensures proper ventilation for the microwave.
- Microwave Ventilation Kit: Ensure your microwave has enough ventilation with this easy-to-install kit, preventing overheating and prolonging its life.
11. Inside the Pantry
Storing your microwave inside the pantry can keep it hidden when not in use. This method works wonders in open-plan kitchens, maintaining a tidy look. I’ve seen it transform cluttered spaces into serene cooking havens.
Might be a good match:
- Microwave Oven Shelf Stand: A sturdy shelf stand that can elevate your microwave within the pantry, allowing for better organization and saving counter space.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Attractive woven baskets for storing pantry items, adding a rustic touch while keeping your space organized.
- Airtight Food Storage Containers: Perfect for storing dry goods, these containers keep food fresh and neatly organized.
12. Built Into Kitchen Island
A microwave built into the kitchen island can be both practical and stylish. It keeps the appliance within easy reach without taking up additional space. I’ve employed this trick in several kitchen renovations to great effect.
Possibly handy products:
- Undercounter Microwave Oven: A sleek undercounter microwave oven designed for seamless installation in kitchen islands, offering easy access and saving counter space.
- Cabinet Trim Kit: A trim kit to ensure a professional finish when installing your microwave into a kitchen island or custom cabinetry.
- Kitchen Island Cabinet with Storage: A versatile kitchen island cabinet with additional storage space and designated spot for microwave placement to keep your kitchen organized.
13. Combine with a Wall Oven
Pairing your microwave with a wall oven can streamline your kitchen’s appearance. This setup is ideal for those planning a kitchen remodel from scratch. It’s a sophisticated solution that enhances the overall aesthetic.
Check these products out:
- Built-In Microwave Oven: A sleek built-in microwave that seamlessly integrates with your cabinetry for a modern look.
- Stainless Steel Wall Oven: A stainless steel wall oven that complements a built-in microwave for a cohesive kitchen design.
- Installation Trim Kit: An installation trim kit to ensure a perfect fit and finish when combining your microwave with a wall oven.
14. Microwave on a Lower Shelf
A lower shelf can be a practical spot for your microwave, especially if accessibility is key. It keeps the appliance within reach without encroaching on counter space. This is a solution I’ve recommended for kitchens with ample lower cabinet space.
Possibly helpful picks:
- Adjustable Microwave Oven Stand: An adjustable microwave oven stand can help fit your microwave securely on a lower shelf, optimizing kitchen space.
- Shelf Liners for Kitchen Cabinets: Shelf liners keep the area beneath the microwave clean and protect the surface from scratches.
- Under Cabinet Lighting: Adding under cabinet lighting can improve visibility for lower shelf microwaves, making them easier to use.
15. Install with a Trim Kit
Using a trim kit around your microwave can give it a built-in look. This aesthetic touch is perfect for those seeking a high-end kitchen finish. It’s a simple addition that can make a big difference in appearance.
These products might help:
- Microwave Trim Kit: A versatile trim kit that enhances your microwave’s appearance by giving it a seamless built-in look, perfect for upgrading your kitchen aesthetic.
- Under-Cabinet Mount Bracket: Mount your microwave securely under the cabinet with this bracket, saving counter space and providing a cleaner look.
- Stainless Steel Appliance Cleaner: Keep your trim kit and microwave looking pristine with this stainless steel cleaner, ideal for maintaining a sleek kitchen finish.
16. Place on a Movable Stand
A movable stand can offer the best of both worlds — mobility and extra workspace. This solution is perfect for flexible kitchen setups. I’ve seen it work beautifully in dynamic households where space needs frequently change.
Products that could assist:
- Kitchen Utility Cart with Wheels: A versatile kitchen utility cart with wheels to provide mobility and extra countertop space for your microwave and other kitchen appliances.
- Rolling Microwave Cart with Storage Shelves: A microwave cart with multiple storage shelves for organizing kitchen essentials, featuring wheels for easy movement and flexibility.
- Portable Kitchen Island Cart: This portable kitchen island cart offers additional workspace and storage, with wheels to easily move it around your kitchen.
17. Tuck into Spare Cabinet
Utilizing a spare cabinet for your microwave can keep it out of sight. This method is especially useful in kitchens with extra storage space. I’ve found it to be a great way to maintain a clean and organized kitchen.
Maybe worth checking out:
- Microwave Mounting Bracket: A sturdy bracket to securely mount your microwave inside a cabinet, helping save counter space while providing easy access.
- Microwave Trim Kit: A trim kit to give your microwave a built-in look when installed in a cabinet, adding a sleek, customized touch.
- Cabinet Ventilation Kit: A ventilation kit to ensure proper airflow around the microwave, preventing overheating and maintaining appliance efficiency.
18. Store on Top of an Island
For those with larger kitchen islands, placing the microwave on top can be an option. It offers 360-degree access and keeps the appliance within reach. Just be mindful of the cords and ensure they’re neatly tucked away.
A few relevant products:
- Under-Cabinet Cord Management Kit: This kit helps you organize and conceal cords for a neat and tidy appearance, reducing clutter on your kitchen island.
- Microwave Oven Stand: A sturdy stand or riser designed to elevate your microwave for better access and additional storage space underneath.
- Non-Slip Appliance Mat: A non-slip mat to keep your microwave stable on the island, preventing accidental movement or scratches.
