Save Space in Your Kitchen with a Microwave Drawer

Did you know that drawers in the kitchen maximize space, allow for a more accessible living space, and provide added design flexibility? Consumers and designers alike love drawers because they provide a wide variety of creative design possibilities for the kitchen. That is why so many homeowners and designers are utilizing microwave drawers in their kitchen design. But what distinguishes it from the conventional models and why has it gained such traction?

In this blog, our appliance experts at Mountain High will explain what microwave drawers are, their benefits, and how to choose the right model, and we will even present some feature models to help you choose a microwave drawer if you are ready to buy one.

What Is a Microwave Drawer?

A microwave drawer is a unique kitchen appliance that differs from traditional microwaves in its design and placement. Unlike conventional countertops or over-the-range microwaves, a microwave drawer is installed directly into your kitchen cabinetry, typically below the countertop or within customized cabinetry.

It's designed as a horizontal drawer that smoothly glides open, revealing the microwave compartment inside. This placement offers a space-saving solution and a streamlined appearance in your kitchen, as the microwave remains hidden within the cabinetry when not in use. When needed, it easily slides out for convenient access to heat or cook food.

A notable difference between microwave drawers and traditional microwaves is the absence of a turntable inside the drawer. In most conventional microwaves, a turntable rotates to ensure even cooking by distributing heat across the food.

Microwave drawers, on the other hand, operate using a different mechanism. Instead of a turntable, they utilize a stirrer system or similar technology. This system disperses microwave energy within the compartment, ensuring even cooking without the need for a rotating platform. The microwave drawer's design allows for consistent heat distribution, ensuring that food is cooked or heated evenly despite the absence of a turntable.

Microwave Drawers: Pros & Cons

Pros of Microwave Drawers

• Space-Saving Design: By integrating seamlessly into cabinetry, microwave drawers free up valuable countertop space. This optimization allows for a cleaner, more spacious kitchen layout, perfect for those striving for a minimalist or organized aesthetic.

• Enhanced Aesthetics: The sleek, built-in design of microwave drawers lends a polished and contemporary look to your kitchen. These drawers blend harmoniously with cabinetry, creating a streamlined and uncluttered appearance that elevates the overall aesthetics of the space.

• Versatile Installation Options: Microwave drawers offer flexibility in placement. They can be installed below countertops, within kitchen islands, or integrated into customized cabinetry, providing homeowners with versatile options to suit their kitchen layout and preferences.

• Functional Features: Despite their discreet appearance, microwave drawers offer various cooking settings, power levels, and additional features similar to traditional microwaves. Some models may even include advanced functionalities such as sensor cooking or programmable options, enhancing their utility in the kitchen.

Cons of Microwave Drawers

While we don’t necessarily think there are actual cons to microwave drawers, we think it is really important to consider:

• Installation Complexity: Installing a microwave drawer can be more challenging than placing a traditional countertop microwave. It often requires professional installation due to wiring, ventilation, and cabinetry modifications, which might add to the overall cost.

• Potential Cost: Microwave drawers can be pricier than their traditional counterparts due to their specialized design and installation requirements. The sleek integrated look and added features often come at a higher price point.

How to Choose a Microwave Drawer

When selecting a microwave drawer, several key factors warrant consideration to ensure it meets your kitchen requirements:

• Size and Fit: Assess the available space in your kitchen and ensure the chosen microwave drawer aligns with those dimensions. Measure the area where the drawer will be installed to guarantee a proper fit within your cabinetry or designated space.

• Power and Capacity: Consider the power output and interior capacity of the microwave drawer. While these appliances are generally designed to accommodate standard cooking needs, some models might offer varying power levels or larger capacities. Assess your typical food quantities and cooking habits to choose a size and power level that suits your needs.

• Additional Features: Explore the array of features available in different models. Some microwave drawers offer advanced functionalities such as preset cooking programs, sensor-based cooking, or specialized settings for specific food types. These features can enhance convenience and efficiency in meal preparation.

• User-Friendly Controls: Evaluate the ease of use and control interface of the microwave drawer. Intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface can significantly enhance the overall cooking experience, especially for those who prefer straightforward operations.

• Ventilation Requirements: Ensure that your kitchen's ventilation setup is compatible with the microwave drawer's requirements. Proper ventilation is essential for safe and efficient operation. Be prepared to accommodate any necessary ventilation adjustments during installation.

• Brand Reputation and Reviews: Consider the reputation of different brands and models. Reading reviews from other users can offer insights into the performance, reliability, and durability of specific microwave drawer models, aiding in your decision-making process.

Microwave Drawer: Featured Models

If you're in search of a microwave drawer but uncertain about which models to consider, take a look at these expert picks:

Cafe Appliances Caf(eback) Built-In Microwave Drawer Oven (CWL112P2RS1

Why We Like It:
Introducing the Cafe CWL112P2RS1 Microwave Drawer, designed for cooking convenience. Its sensor cook and sensor reheat features automatically adjust cooking settings, ensuring perfect results for leftovers or packaged meals. The sleek glass touch controls not only make the microwave easy to use but also effortless to clean. With its unique drawer-style door, this microwave smoothly extends like a cabinet drawer, perfectly nestled under the counter for quick and easy access.

Enjoy the added convenience of the electronic open feature, simply press a button, and the handleless door effortlessly opens. Boasting a 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, this microwave offers ample space for all your favorite dishes.

Viking Undercounter DrawerMicro Oven (VMOD5240SS)

Why We Like It:
Introducing the Viking VMOD5240SS microwave drawer, a testament to effortless kitchen convenience. With its touch control feature, a simple touch of a button smoothly slides the drawer open or closed, adding ease to your culinary experience. This microwave offers eight sensor cook options, automating cooking, defrosting, and reheating tasks for flawless results. Its user-friendly design ensures easy installation into standard cabinetry without the need for extra kits, simplifying the setup process.

The slimline design and drawer-style access maximize the 1.2 cubic ft. capacity, optimizing space usage for exceptional cooking outcomes. Equipped with a child safety lock, this microwave prevents unintended use, providing peace of mind.

Thermador MicroDrawer Microwave (MD24WS)

Why We Like It:
Presenting the Thermador MD24WS, a kitchen essential offering an array of convenient features. With its sensor cook mode, this microwave automatically determines cooking time and power levels for various foods, from baked potatoes to frozen entrees, ensuring precise results. Boasting a 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, it accommodates items as large as a 9" by 13" casserole dish or a 20 oz. cup.

Just like the previous two models, the sleek Built-In MicroDrawer opens and closes effortlessly with a simple touch, eliminating the need for a handle. Crafted with specially designed gray glass on stainless steel, it adds a luxurious finish to your kitchen while providing practical functionality.

Ready to Find a New Microwave Drawer?

If you're excited to embrace the space-saving, design-enhancing prowess of microwave drawers, it's time to take the next step. Explore our collection of microwave drawers at Mountain High Appliance. We have models from the most renowned brands, such as Jennair, Monogram, Cafe, Thermador, and more. Additionally, we carry many types of cooking appliances, including traditional microwaves, cooking ranges, cooktops, ovens, kitchen ventilation solutions, small appliances, and more!

Should you have any questions about our cooking appliances, make sure to contact us today or visit our appliance store locations in Colorado Springs, Denver, Glenwood Springs, Littleton, or Louisville. Our appliance experts at Mountain High are ready to assist you in finding your next new appliance!

FAQs About Microwave Drawers

Are microwave drawers easy to use?
Yes! They function similarly to traditional microwaves but offer enhanced accessibility and safety.

Can any cabinetry accommodate a microwave drawer?
Most microwave drawers are designed to fit standard cabinet sizes, but it's wise to verify dimensions before installation.

Do microwave drawers need special ventilation?
Yes, proper ventilation is crucial for safe and efficient operation. Follow manufacturer guidelines for ventilation during installation.