How to Have a Microwave Without Losing Counter Space

Microwaves are a necessity for many home cooks, because they cook food faster than a standard oven. The appliance is also suitable for making quick snacks like popcorn and nachos, reheating leftovers and thawing frozen meats. Microwaves have slowly decreased in size over the years, but if you have a small kitchen or limited counter space, you may not have enough room for one. Use a few different methods, and find a way to make room for your microwave.

Microwave cart
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Instructions

- 1
  Buy an over-the-range microwave as opposed to a countertop model. Countertop models sit directly on the counter, taking up valuable space in your kitchen. An over-the-range model installs above your stove or range, hanging from an attached cabinet.
- 2
  Add a rolling microwave cart to your kitchen space. A microwave cart consists of a solid top, where the microwave sits, with extra shelves or cabinets above and below that provide extra storage. Look for a model that matches the design or style of your kitchen.
- 3
  Clean out a cabinet located at eye height. Choose a larger cabinet that has space for your microwave. Place the microwave inside the cabinet and cut a small notch in the cabinet door. Slide the cord through the notch and plug in below.
- 4
  Switch to a smaller and more compact foreign-produced microwave. The cultures of France and Japan have smaller kitchens that require smaller appliances. The smaller microwave models take up much less space than the full-size models.
- 5
  Move the microwave from the counter to another space in your kitchen, such as on the table or on an island in the middle of the kitchen. Make sure that the space you pick has an outlet nearby. A small bar is large enough for mid-sized models.

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