Are Microwave Drawers A Good Idea For Your Kitchen Remodeling Project?

Microwave drawers are having their moment! If you watch home improvement shows or check out glossy home magazines, you've seen examples of beautiful kitchen designs featuring microwave drawers!

Today's kitchen design trends favor clean lines, uncluttered countertops, hidden appliances like dishwasher drawers, refrigerators with cabinet facings, and microwave drawers. A microwave drawer fits perfectly into a clean, modern design. However, they don't come cheap! Some models can cost upwards of $1,800, not including installation.

View Our Kitchen Remodeling Portfolio

So is it worth the investment when you can purchase a traditional built-in or countertop microwave for a fraction of the cost? Let's look at the pros and cons of microwave drawers to help you decide if they make sense for your kitchen remodeling project.

What is a Microwave Drawer?

A microwave drawer is like it sounds; a microwave featuring a design that pulls out like a drawer instead of having a door that swings open. Microwave drawers are designed to be built into your lower cabinets.

A drawer-style microwave doesn't feature a turntable. The lack of a turntable frees up extra interior space for larger rectangular casserole dishes or oddly shaped containers. Because items stay stationary, you can use containers that wouldn't otherwise fit into a traditional microwave.

Why You Want A Microwave Drawer

The primary reason designers love microwave drawers is that countertop real estate can get scarce in many kitchens. Aesthetics runs a close second. Traditional microwaves take up counter space and let's be honest, they aren't stylish or attractive. Here are some reasons you might want one in your kitchen.

• They Save Valuable Real Estate - There are a lot of places to put a regular microwave. However, you'll lose about four square feet of valuable prep space if it sits on the counter. A microwave drawer fits seamlessly into lower cabinetry. You'll need to consider if counter space is more important than cabinet space or vice versa.

• A Microwave Drawer is Ergonomically Designed - Placing a microwave on a shelf or the top of the fridge can be dangerous. A microwave drawer in a lower cabinet will always be easier to access and much safer

• Aging-in-Place Design - A drawer microwave is accessible to a person with shoulder mobility problems or someone who uses a wheelchair. Because you lift up and out of the drawer, you can easily and safely set your dish on the countertop.

• They're Kid-Friendly - Microwave drawers can be locked and require a passcode to open them. They're safer if you have little kids in the house.

• They Are Easier to Clean - Most microwave drawers do not have a rotating plate that standard microwaves use to spin food as it heats. The inside of the drawer is smooth, with no crevices or nooks for food to stick to. To clean, simply wipe down the drawer, and you're done!

• Sleek Modern Design - A microwave drawer offers a sleeker, cleaner, more modern look to your kitchen design because it requires no bulky trim kit. Some models allow you to install them flush with your cabinetry so it doesn't protrude into your space.

These are some benefits a microwave drawer can bring into your home. However, like all appliances, there are some drawbacks to consider before you run out and buy one.

Why You Don’t Want A Microwave Drawers

Like almost everything, there are pros and cons to microwave drawers. You must understand and consider both the pros and cons before deciding that you'll live with it for years. Before purchasing a microwave drawer, consider these potential issues.

• The Price - Microwave drawers cost considerably more than a traditional countertop or built-in model, especially compared to entry level units.

• Access - Your kids can easily access the microwave if you forget to lock the control panel, which can be problematic.

• Lack of some features - The magnetron is located on the roof of the microwave. This prevents a microwave drawer from having a turntable. Because of their placement within the cabinets, microwave drawers do not offer convection cooking. Some models do not provide a comfortable depth for larger casseroles and food.

• Trading Aesthetics for Space - While you won't have a microwave on your counter or hanging below your cabinets or over the stove, you'll be trading valuable lower cabinet space. If cabinet space is at a premium, you might want to consider another option.

• They Require Professional Installation - You may need a licensed electrician to install a dedicated 120-volt plug for the microwave inside your cabinetry. You'll also need a purpose-build kitchen cabinet for the unit to sit in.

In the end, it all comes down to your wants and needs. If you need the countertop or upper cabinet space, appreciate the safer handling, and can afford it, a microwave drawer can be an excellent choice for your kitchen remodel. However, if you're ok with your existing microwave but are concerned about the higher price point and the need for professional installation, it might be wise to consider other alternatives.

Are you planning a kitchen remodeling project in the Madison, Wisconsin, area? Give the Degnan Design-Build-Remodel design team a call at (608) 846-5963. We are always happy to answer your questions and explain the pros and cons of including a microwave drawer in your new kitchen!

This article was updated by Abe Degnan on 9/29/2022.