Find the perfect place in your kitchen for this essential small appliance.
See seven ways you’re able to integrate a microwave into your kitchen layout.
The microwave is an essential kitchen appliance that helps streamline meal prep and fit cooking into busy schedules.
Credit: Emily Followill
For safety, it’s best to find a location that offers landing space below.
The more tightly the microwave fits into the space, the more streamlined it looks.
Instead of reaching up to the counter or higher, users of any height can easily access this oven.
Credit: Greg Scheidemann
This configuration is the safest for all users and lends a high-end look to the kitchen.
Con:Drawer-style microwaves tend to be more expensive than countertop models and have more limited installation options.
Pro:Over-the-range microwavessave valuable work space and are adequate substitutes for range hoods in most residential kitchens.
Credit: Jay Wilde
Con:These units are usually more expensive than countertop models and might require professional installation.
Reaching over a hot range or cooktop to dive into the microwave also raises safety concerns.
Most microwaves can be fitted with a trim kit from the oven manufacturer or from another supplier.
Credit: Edmund Barr
Pro:The microwave is fully integrated into the cabinetry, offering a custom look.
Con:A trim kit adds to the cost and requires extra installation expenses.
Con:Adding a door comes with extra cost and installation requirements.
Credit: John Bessler
Selecting a trim kit that matches other appliances helps the microwave blend in.
Pro:Since you’re already using the wall for appliances, no additional countertop space is wasted.
Con:This solution requires appliances that match and can be grouped attractively and practically with your microwave.
Credit: James Nathan Schroder
Con:Some demolition and construction will be needed.
Countertop microwaves aren’t meant for that purpose.
Anover-the-range microwaveis a good way to save space and have adequate ventilation.
Credit: Erik Johnson
Most of the time, yes.Microwavesneed ventilation to work correctly.
Microwaves built for drawers and cabinets will have venting systems that work with enclosed spaces.
They’ll specify what’s required for them to be correctly installed.
It’s not a good idea to store a microwave in front of a window.
