Choosing where to put a microwave in a small kitchen is no easy feat. Sure, you could squeeze it into a corner or continually move things around to make space, but having easy access to a microwave is essential to your daily meal prep.
If you’re wondering where to put a microwave in a tiny kitchen, you’re not alone — and you’ve come to the right place! ShelfGenie® offers customizable storage solutions of all types. Our qualified experts help you maximize space and create a more functional and organized kitchen, regardless of shape or size.
Microwave Placement Ideas for Small Kitchens
Running out of countertop space? These kitchen microwave storage ideas will help you reclaim the space you’ve lost. From above-the-range options to microwave cabinet ideas, there are many creative ways to incorporate a microwave into your small kitchen.
Place the Microwave Above the Countertop for Easy Access
Did you know there are microwaves specifically designed to sit over your cooktop? Known as over-the-range microwaves, these appliances are typically as wide as the range itself and utilize vertical space by positioning the microwave above the counter. Often larger than a countertop kitchen microwave, an over-the-range microwave may offer multiple functions, including air frying, rotisserie inserts, and more.
These space-saving, over-the-range microwaves typically integrate air circulation or kitchen venting to remove cooking fumes and overhead lighting. However, these appliances don’t always pack the power of a standalone vent, which may prove problematic in busy home kitchens. Overall, an over-the-counter microwave is a great option, especially if you have a small kitchen and limited countertop space.
Integrate the Microwave into Kitchen Cabinets
Whether you’re planning a custom cabinet install with room for your kitchen microwave or simply placing a countertop model inside an existing cabinet, this kitchen cabinet storage method is one of our favorites. In most cases, it requires minimal effort or demolition work. You may even be able to DIY it.
Installing Pull-Out drawers for kitchen shelves is a more streamlined solution that can create a designated space for your kitchen cabinet microwave. These sturdy rolling shelves are deep enough to store your microwave and prevent tipping, and can even be constructed with sloping sides to keep the appliance safely in place.
Alternatively, if you tuck your kitchen microwave into a spare cabinet, you can keep it in a handy location without any lost countertop space. Choosing a centrally located cabinet will make carrying food back and forth a breeze. This method also offers an “out-of-sight, out-of-mind” approach to storage, allowing you to close it up when not in use. If your cabinet doesn’t have a shelf dividing it, a professional can remove it and wire the microwave in for you.
Just remember, unless you customize your cabinets to suit your microwave, you could end up with gaps between the cabinetry and the appliance. If you need help designing and installing custom Pull-Out shelves for your kitchen cabinet microwave, book a free consultation with ShelfGenie. We'll provide a 3D rendering to help you make the most of your small kitchen space.
Install the Microwave Under The Counter
When it comes to an under-counter microwave for your small kitchen, you have two options to choose from:
- Purchase a standard microwave and place it in a spacious under-counter spot with access to a power outlet.
- Install a custom microwave drawer.
Microwave drawers are built-in appliances that sit below your countertop, providing a seamless, unobtrusive look, easy access to heat food and drinks, and no lost countertop space.
Installing a microwave drawer may be more costly than simply purchasing a smaller kitchen microwave and storing it below your countertop. However, it’s a permanent, space-saving solution that could work well for a small kitchen.
If you have a kitchen island, there’s even more opportunity to add a microwave drawer. Kitchen islands are the underrated masters of kitchen storage. They provide an alternative surface in your small kitchen while also offering some space below that you can use for storage — or for adding a built-in microwave. You may consider a microwave drawer for a seamless finish or clear out some shelf space for a smaller model you can take in and out of the island as needed.
There may be a few downsides, though. Depending on your island’s height, you may have to stoop to retrieve food, snacks, and drinks from the kitchen microwave. It also puts the microwave within easy reach of younger children, which could be a safety concern.
Microwave Storage Can Be Easy: Contact ShelfGenie Today
At ShelfGenie, we believe in the power of a well-designed space, no matter its size. We offer a range of custom solutions made with you and your family in mind. From custom shelf layouts to effortless pantry organization, our three-step ShelfGenie process ensures our designers deliver astounding storage solutions every time. We even back every job with our Neighborly Done Right Promise™ so that you feel confident in your design choice.
Ready to upgrade your space — and make storing your microwave easier than ever? Connect with our team at a ShelfGenie location near you, or contact ShelfGenie today with any questions or concerns. We’d love to hear from you!
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. ShelfGenie is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact your local ShelfGenie location for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
