High or low? Give some thought as to where you'll place your microwave in your kitchen design

“Should my microwave be located high or low in my kitchen plan?”

Like a lot of choices when designing your kitchen space, this one has no right or wrong answer. The main advantage for locating it high (in a wall cabinet, for example) is ease of use. The controls are at eye level, moving food in and out is easy, and not you’re not stooping over when it’s time to clean!

Locating it low (in a base cabinet or island cabinet) might make more sense if your microwave is capable of dual functions: microwaving and convection. Chances are you’ll be using it for more than quick reheating or popping popcorn, and larger items are easier to place and remove from a lower position.

Lastly, some people prefer to have the microwave located where it isn’t as visible, and find that placing it in a base cabinet does the trick, especially on an island.

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Can't fit the microwave near the oven area? Look to the fridge!

“I’ve tried many different arrangements, but just not happy where my microwave ends up!”

While the most common arrangement involves placing your microwave near the oven area, sometimes things just don’t fit the way you’d like. Here’s an option to consider: Microwaves do extensive duty re-heating leftovers, thawing frozen food, etc., so explore the area near your refrigerator for placement.

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