The Right Place To Put Your Microwave

Designing your kitchen can be tricky. After all, it's one of the more high-traffic areas in a home. Where you locate everything will make a big difference in how effective the space is. For example, if your appliances are all on opposite sides, you won't be able to make a meal without constantly turning in circles. Room Sketcher recommends placing your sink, stove, and refrigerator near each other for this reason. However, microwaves can be added to this list, too.

Of course, microwaves are used just as frequently as a stove due to their convenience. Not only do they save energy and gas over cooking on a range, but they also heat your food faster (via Ross's Discount Home Centre). You should also make sure to not make them an eyesore in an area that doesn't make sense. Instead, the counter may be the most straightforward location, but it won't necessarily be the best when preparing a meal.

Another convenient spot to put a microwave is over your range. Choosing this location will allow you to do all of your cooking in one area. Likewise, it makes things much easier when it comes to meal prepping and setting down groceries. 

However, you need to place your microwave over the stove to achieve this design aesthetic. Having these two appliances near each other is also convenient, so you don't have to constantly move in different directions while preparing a meal. Counter space is another reason to choose this location. By taking your microwave off this precious real estate, you'll have more room to prepare food.

Finally, to better define the overall design aesthetic, Ohanlon Kitchens Inc. explains there is actually an ideal arrangement for the layout of your kitchen: a triangular formation. Indeed, arranging the sink, refrigerator, and appliances in this shape will add better flow, optimizing the way you cook because you can easily move from one area to another rather seamlessly.

Of course, placing a microwave over the range isn't the best location for every household. While this location will aid in making the kitchen flow, you and other family members have to be tall enough to reach where it's mounted. By having your microwave so high up, children old enough to use the appliance won't have access. It also hinders short adults and people with disabilities from using it.

Installing a built-in microwave in your lower cabinets is another great option. Everyone will be able to make use of it, and you'll still be able to save precious counter space. Plus, it can keep your kitchen stylish by sitting flush with your cabinet system. Maytag explains there are two ways to put a microwave in your cabinets. If you're doing renovations, opt for a built-in model since the cabinets need to be customized to go around it. However, a countertop microwave can work if you have a shelf to sit it on.