What is a microwave drawer and why do you need one?
You guessed it. A microwave drawer is just that: A microwave that functions as a drawer rather than a box with a hinged door. The point is to get it off your counter or out from under your cabinet — creating more space, especially if you need to install a hood vent over your stove and the microwave is blocking the way.
Why choose Sharp’s microwave drawer oven?
It’s your kitchen, your design and your lifestyle. Sharp’s Microwave Drawer™ Oven allows you to focus on your kitchen’s design and workflow by offering flexible installation options in an island or peninsula or below your wall oven. Design your kitchen, then put the microwave where it belongs.
What can you cook in a microwave drawer oven?
The Microwave Drawer Oven offers plenty of cooking space, with room enough for a 4-quart casserole dish or a 20-oz. beverage from your favorite coffee shop. From craftsman to contemporary, the Sharp Microwave Drawer™ Oven’s sleek, low-profile design and stainless-steel finish beautifully complement any kitchen style or appliance.
Can you put a microwave in a cabinet?
Yes, you can install a microwave in a cabinet. You can install countertop microwaves (with or without a trim kit), microwave drawers, and drop-down microwave ovens. 3. What sizes are available for microwave drawers?
What is the difference between a built in microwave and a drawer microwave?
The real difference between microwave drawers and built in microwaves lies in their functionality. Microwave drawers are typically installed below waist height, and glide out smoothly at the touch of a button. On the other hand, built in microwaves are installed at chest height or above.
What is the difference between a warming drawer and a microwave?
Warming drawers keep food warm after they are made, as the name implies, and they may be standalone appliances or built under the oven. Microwave drawers, or drawer microwaves, offer the various functions of the microwave without taking up countertop space.
Are drawer microwaves hard to clean?
Con: They're harder to clean. We already talked about how easy a drawer microwave is to clean. So then compare it with a countertop microwave and you have more parts to scrub. Sure, it can be done — it's just not as easy as a quick wipe-down. Plus, if you stash it high up, it's even harder to reach.
Can you put a microwave in a drawer?
Install a Microwave as a Drawer Instead of reaching up to the counter or higher, users of any height can easily access this oven. Pro: Because of their location, drawer-style microwaves provide easier access than countertop microwaves and over-the-range models while saving counter space.
Is it worth having a warming drawer?
Because they're smaller, warming drawers are more efficient than keeping food warm in a full oven, and they maintain desired food consistency better than re-heating something in the microwave does. They have features to ensure chicken skin remains crisp and baked goods remain moist.
What is the purpose of a warming drawer?
A warming drawer, sometimes called a baking drawer, can be used to help bread dough rise, keep dishes warm until serving, and can sometimes be used as a slow cooker. Warming drawers are available as a stand-alone appliance built into kitchen cabinets or as a kitchen range feature.
Are drawer microwaves a fire hazard?
Sharp Electronics Corp. microwave drawers have a defect that makes them susceptible to catching fire, a new proposed class suit alleges. The electromagnetic waves generated by the units' magnetron can't properly move into the cooking cavity, the suit alleges.
Why are drawer microwaves better?
A microwave drawer is designed to fit perfectly under a counter, and placed into a lower cabinet or kitchen island. This allows for cleaner counter space, improved functionality, and a more modern overall ascetic.
Are microwave drawers expensive?
Kitchen trend alert: Microwave drawers are the new hot-ticket item. But some can cost upwards of around $1,800, not including installation.
Where do you put a microwave drawer?
Microwave drawers can be easily installed in base cabinets below countertops or in wall assemblies like wall ovens. Microwave drawers come as preassembled, self-contained units with ventilation systems built in.
Are all microwave drawers made by Sharp?
Sharp is first on my list because they make all of the microwave drawers. There are several brands who have a microwave drawer, but they are all made by Sharp. Sharp holds several patents on its design, so there are only slight differences in the appearance of the front panel and features in other brands.
Do microwaves need to be vented?
While you cook food inside the microwave, lots of heat, odor, steam, and smoke is generated. All these elements need to be vented. Otherwise, odors & steam can create a stinky smell inside the still-sitting oven. This smell can gradually spread inside your kitchen too.
Can you keep food warm in a warming drawer?
Warm Your Dishware A warming drawer allows you to keep your bowls and plates nice and toasty. On chilly days, you can even keep your mugs in the warming drawer, so your morning cup of coffee or tea is even cozier.
How long can you keep food warm in a warming drawer?
For best results, do not hold foods in the warming drawer longer than 1 hour. For smaller quantities or heat-sensitive foods, such as eggs, do not hold longer than 30 minutes. Food must be cooked and at serving temperature before being placed in the warming drawer. Cover foods with a lid.
Can you reheat food in a warming drawer?
Warming drawers are specifically designed to keep plates of food warm and moist once the food has been prepared. They are not designed to reheat food or to cook the food initially. Use your standard oven or a microwave oven for cooking the meal or for reheating previously cooked foods.
Can I cook in a warming drawer?
Can You Cook In A Warming Drawer? Yes, you can slow cook a variety of dishes, including beef, poultry and lamb, but only if the warming drawer comes equipped with the appropriate cooking function.
What is a Microwave Drawer?
First of all, we should clarify what a microwave drawer actually is. Though, oddly enough – it is exactly what its name says it is. Rather than having your microwave sitting atop your countertop, this type of microwave gets installed into your cabinet area – most often below your countertop. It then pulls out much like a drawer.
Unique Sensor Functions
Sometimes your microwave is used to just make meals and treats and snacks. Other times, however, it can be used in the process of making delicious meals. You know, when you forget to take the meat out before you leave for work in the morning and find out you are making spaghetti with frozen ground beef.
Multipower Modes
There is a science to creating the best microwave meal, just in case you didn’t know. When you use your oven, you cook certain things at different temperatures, right? You (hopefully) don’t just cook everything at 375-degrees and hope for the best.
Spacious Cooking
Have you ever bought one of those small, compact microwaves because you didn’t want to waste too much of your countertop? If so, then you know it definitely doesn’t hold everything. Trying to fit certain plates into these microwaves can prove unsuccessful.
Keep it Wam
Finally, cooking a big meal for your family is always a balancing act when it comes to getting everything cooked at the same time. You don’t want to put some cold side dishes on the table because you need the space to make the main course.
Final Thoughts
We never want to keep doing the same thing over and over in life – just because we don’t want to take the time to learn about something more beneficial to us. It may sound silly, but that’s how it is with a microwave drawer.
First, What Is a Microwave Drawer?
You guessed it. A microwave drawer is just that: A microwave that functions as a drawer rather than a box with a hinged door. The point is to get it off your counter or out from under your cabinet — creating more space, especially if you need to install a hood vent over your stove and the microwave is blocking the way.
Pros to Owning a Microwave Drawer
Aside from the fact that you don’t have to stare at the large, out-of-place box when you walk into the kitchen, here are some other pros to installing the drawer:
Cons to Owning a Microwave Drawer
Unfortunately, it’s not all roses when it comes to a microwave drawer. Before purchasing one, consider the following cons:
What Is a Microwave Drawer & What Are Its Benefits?
Let’s start with what a microwave drawer is. It is a compact microwave are tucked into a 24- or 30-inch-wide base cabinet. With these built-in appliances, gone are the days of the unattractive microwave/range hood combination hanging above a cooktop! Besides their aesthetic benefits, microwave drawers offer several advantages. They:
Microwave Drawer Used in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC Remodel
Below is a microwave drawer (shown open and closed) we used in a DC kitchen remodel. It helps de-clutter the space, freeing up counter space and providing an attractive, clean aesthetic.
Is a Microwave Drawer Right for You?
Microwave drawers are great solutions in smaller spaces, but they aren’t necessarily right for every single kitchen. Consider your needs and priorities. How do you use your kitchen? The Wentworth team can help you with this. We’ll ask questions like:
Types of Microwave Ovens
A microwave oven is an essential appliance for most kitchens. It is your everyday way to reheat food and warm beverages. Microwave ovens come in different types and price points, but none compare to the microwave drawer. Here’s why:
What Are Some Pros and Cons of Owning a Microwave Drawer?
First thing’s first, in our opinion, there are very few drawbacks to owning a microwave drawer. Unlike buying a car, you will not find that by purchasing a microwave drawer you are missing out on potential safety features, luxury comfort, or a spacious interior (because the interior of a microwave drawer is surprisingly large).
Pros of Owning a Microwave Drawer
A microwave drawer is a wonderful solution for the chef who never seems to have enough counterspace. It fits beautifully into a lower cabinet under a counter, kitchen island, or below a wall oven, sitting flush with the cabinet doors or drawers.
Cons of Owning a Microwave Drawer
There are currently no microwave drawers that have the ability for convection cooking. Convection cooking relies on a fan that can circulate the hot air throughout the appliance. This is not possible with a microwave drawer to date.
Buy the Microwave Oven You Want
There is no wrong choice when selecting a microwave oven, and microwave drawers present a very versatile option for modern cooking needs. A drawer-style microwave is a top–of–the–line appliance, beautifully designed, and equipped with safety features and additional functionality that are not offered in a countertop or over-the-range microwave oven.
Are Microwave Drawers Safe?
Some are pretty serious, including fires and other major service problems if you read the comments below.
How to Buy a Microwave Drawer
First, microwave drawers are available in two sizes, 30 inches, and the more common 24 inches. The interior capacity is similar.
JennAir, Thermador, and Other Brands
Many of the other brands have rebates, usually around $1,399. I know of JennAir and Thermador.
Key Takeaways
First, microwave drawers are safe and reliable. They also look good in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Microwave drawers are typically more expensive than other types of microwaves. They usually range from around $1000 - $2000.
Our Top 5 Microwave Drawer Picks of 2022
From Sharp to Bosch, from 24-inch to 30-inch width, we covered all microwave drawers, including installation methods - click on the links below to see our review on each.
3 Burning Questions We Love to Answer
1) Where do I install microwave drawers? A microwave drawer sits under kitchen countertops like a regular drawer and can be installed flush or proud (i.e. protruding slightly from the cabinet) to your surrounding cabinets. This is why some people call them under counter microwaves.
5 Reasons Why a Microwave Drawer is a Good Choice for Your Kitchen
The most important reason for installing a microwave drawer in your home is to be able to save valuable counter or cabinet space. A freestanding microwave can take up around 4 sq. ft of precious preparation space or can be hard to fit into existing cabinets.
Microwave drawer vs countertop microwave
You’re not missing out on any important features by choosing a microwave drawer. You will still get:
Best Microwave Drawer Brands to Consider
With many big-name brands now providing microwave drawers as part of their kitchen appliance selections, it can be hard to know which one to choose. Some of our favourites are:
Final Thoughts
A microwave drawer is a great way to upgrade the overall design of your kitchen. While you will pay a bit more for a microwave drawer, the longer life-span of the drawer (over a countertop microwave) as well as the ease of use and ergonomic benefits under the counter are well worth it.
FAQs
A typical microwave drawer costs approximately $999. A typical mid-range, highly rated built-in microwave such as the Frigidaire Professional FPMO227NUF costs $399 and it needs to be integrated with a trim kit which typically costs $149 for a total of $548.
What Are the Standard Sizes for a Microwave Drawer?
Across all brands, there are typically two sizes of microwave drawers available. Microwave drawers can come in a 24-inch size or 30-inch size.
How Much Space Do You Need to Install a 24-Inch Microwave Drawer?
The 24-inch microwave drawer models will fit in cabinets 24 inches or wider.
How Much Space Do You Need to Install a 30-Inch Microwave Drawer?
30-inch microwave drawer models will fit in cabinets 30 inches or wider. This includes all clearances needed. You don’t need an oversized cabinet to install your microwave drawer.
How Much Clearance Do You Need for a Microwave Drawer?
Many of the dimensions for a 24-inch and 30-inch microwave drawer are the same. This includes the clearance needed around the microwave.
Extra Considerations for Microwave Drawers
Keep in mind these additional considerations when installing a microwave drawer.
Pros and Cons of a Microwave Drawer
A microwave saves time and hassle when you need to cook something quickly. Like most things, however, there are pros and cons of using a microwave drawer. Therefore, before you decide to purchase a microwave drawer, do your research.
Related Questions
You can install microwave drawers in a variety of places because they are self-contained units with built-in ventilation. Microwave drawers can go in cabinets, below countertops, or in-wall assemblies like wall ovens.