The Best Microwave Stands for Maximizing Your Kitchen's Potential
Do you ever find yourself wishing you had just a bit more space in your kitchen? Countertop microwave ovens tend to hog precious real estate that could be better utilized for meal prep and organization. This is where a dedicated microwave cart or stand comes in handy.
Microwave stands provide a variety of benefits that can help maximize your kitchen's potential. Moving your microwave off the counter and onto a cart frees up room for other appliances, ingredients, or decor. Carts also allow you to incorporate extra storage with shelves, cabinets, and drawers to hold cookware, oils, spices, and more. Many feature height adjustable legs, so you can customize the microwave placement for ergonomics. Mobility is another key advantage, with rolling carts that can easily move around your space.
Types of Microwave Carts
Wood Carts
Wood microwave stands provide a warm, decorative look that can match a variety of kitchen aesthetics from traditional to contemporary. They are commonly constructed from high-quality wood like oak or maple, but you can also find affordable wood composite versions. The shelving may consist of solid wood panels or a slatted design to allow airflow.
Metal Carts
If you prefer an industrial, utilitarian vibe, metal microwave carts are a sturdy choice. Steel and chrome are popular materials that resist rust and corrosion. Wire mesh shelving is common, but some feature tempered glass for an ultra-modern style. Metal stands provide excellent durability at an affordable price point.
Bamboo Carts
For those seeking an eco-friendly, renewable material, bamboo microwave carts offer sleek, contemporary styling. Bamboo is moisture-resistant and more durable than standard wood. It has a beautiful grain pattern that adds visual interest. The shelves may be slatted bamboo strips or made from other materials like glass.
Key Features to Consider
Storage Options
Think about your kitchen storage needs and preferences. Do you want open shelves to display items or enclosed cabinet space to tuck things away? Many carts incorporate a mix of both. You’ll also find models with handy built-in features like towel bars, hooks, and spice racks. Drawers provide hidden storage that can corral smaller goods.
Adjustable Height
Height customization allows you to dial in the ideal ergonomic placement for your microwave. Look for carts with adjustable legs that can raise or lower several inches. This accommodates different microwave sizes and users. You may want to elevate a shorter microwave or lower a tall one that's hard to reach safely.
Wheels and Mobility
Casters equipped with locks let you easily roll carts around your kitchen for access or to tuck them out of the way when not in use. Wheeled models offer flexibility, while stationary legs provide maximum stability if you don't need to move the stand often. Just be aware that rolling carts are typically not designed to stay locked and bear weight during microwave use.
Size and Weight Capacity
Ensure the microwave stand you choose can comfortably accommodate your appliance's footprint and handle the weight when loaded up. Measure your microwave's external dimensions and compare to the product specs for surface area and weight limits. Most quality carts support 100+ lbs, but capacities vary.
Extra Functionalities
Higher-end carts may integrate bonus features like butcher block countertops for food prep, folding sides/doors to conceal contents, or cubbies specifically molded to your microwave's shape. Look for enhancements that suit your workflow and storage needs within your budget.
Reviews of the Best Microwave Stands
Bespoak Martin Microwave Cabinet
Boasting solid wood construction with an elegant cabinet design, the Bespoak Martin conceals your microwave behind gracefully arched doors. The generous 24 x 20 x 34 inch frame accommodates larger appliance sizes. It provides abundant enclosed storage plus an adjustable shelf and removable tray. The rich finishes and brass hardware offer true furniture-quality appeal.
DecoBros Kitchen Cart with Storage
This affordable microwave cart from DecoBros features a chrome wire frame complemented by wood countertops and shelves. The compact 24 x 17 inch top surface suits smaller microwaves. Three shelves and towel bar provide open storage options. Locking wheels make it easy to relocate around your space.
Home Styles Napa Kitchen Cart
Constructed from solid wood in a warm oak or black finish, the sturdy Napa cart includes locking casters for mobility and adjustable levelers for stability. Two drawers and two cabinets with shelves behind doors allow you to organize appliances and supplies. Built-in towel racks add functionality.
Seville Classics Bamboo Cart
Showcasing sleek eco-style, this bamboo cart features slatted lower shelves for storage and a sizable top for microwaves up to 25 inches wide. The modern design includes optional drawers for concealed storage. With weight capacity up to 132 pounds, it's a strong, sustainable choice.
Maximizing Your Microwave Placement
Proper positioning plays a key role in getting the most from your microwave cart. The ideal height places the appliance at a comfortable level for safe removal of hot foods. Situate it near outlets so you can easily plug in without cord tension or safety risks. Maintain visibility when cooking and allow enough surrounding space to access contents with ease.
A microwave stand with extra storage capabilities allows you to maximize its potential beyond simply holding your appliance. Use the shelves, cabinets and drawers to organize oils, spices, paper towels and other cooking essentials. Store cookware lids and prep bowls within reach. Stage ingredients on the open shelves as you cook meals for a more efficient workflow. After heating up leftovers, keep serving trays and dishes on the cart for quick grab-and-go access at mealtimes.
With the right microwave stand or cart tailored to your space and needs, you can conquer clutter, boost storage, improve ergonomics, and enhance overall kitchen functionality. Elevate your microwave to new heights and unlock your kitchen's full potential!