When it comes to new appliances, the microwave is typically the last thing you want to think about: what brand and type should I get? Where should I put it? Over the range? Built In? Counter top? Drawer? There are multiple different options but trying to find the best fit for you can be tricky. As simple as a microwave is, they can really throw off a kitchen if they are just set on a counter top taking up space.
Over the past couple years, microwave drawers have grown in popularity. And, for good reason. There are a lot of pros to having a microwave drawer built into a kitchen. They are typically built into a lower cabinet in place of a normal storage drawer, which frees up counter space. This would be the first pro. The second and third fall together, ease of use/access and kid friendly.
Years ago, I'll never forget coming into the kitchen and seeing my little brother on a tall stool that he pushed over to get to the microwave to just put a bag of popcorn in. Of course, I immediately ran over and helped him but I remember thinking, if only there was something that he could have access to, too. As long as the child is old enough to operate, and the parent is comfortable, it's something they can reach. They will have access to something closer to their height and be able to put in popcorn, chicken nuggets, etc. Also, in my opinion, it's easier to pick up something hot and put it on a counter, versus pulling something hot down.
A few "cons" to consider with microwave drawers would be cleaning, no convection and the unit can be a little smaller cubic feet than other standard microwaves on the market. Since the unit is typically installed under a counter top, accessing the unit to clean can be difficult. You may have to sit on the floor or squat down to get those harder to reach spots in the back. Or, you could look on Pinterest for steam cleaning microwave hacks. Unfortunately, the microwave drawers do not have a model that has a convection fan.
For standard microwave options, both over the range microwaves and built in microwaves have the ability to have a convection element in the unit which can serve as a second oven if needed. For someone who likes to cook a lot this add on feature would be a great two in one deal! Also, If the kitchen has limited space this is when a standard over the range microwave may be a better option. It serves as a hood and a microwave over a cooking surface. It gets the microwave off the counter, gaining both counter and cabinet space. And you can even build in a standard microwave with a trim kit around it to make it more eye level, if that suites more of your needs.
Something as simple as purchasing a new microwave can still cause you to think about your day to day lifestyle, and which type is right for you. Only you can be the judge of that! But, we're always here to lend a helping hand when it comes to picking a new microwave drawer or standard microwave.