I’ve always hated the look of having a microwave sitting out on the kitchen counter—it just feels like it throws off the whole aesthetic!
After going back and forth on how to deal with it, I started looking for ways to integrate the microwave into my kitchen design so that it wouldn’t be such an eyesore. If you’re like me and want to hide your microwave, here are six ways to get it out of sight while still keeping it functional.
1. Built-In Microwave Cabinet
One of the best decisions I made was installing a built-in cabinet for the microwave. It instantly made my kitchen look more streamlined.
Steps:
- Find a spot in your cabinetry where the microwave can be installed—usually above the oven or a lower cabinet works well.
- Make sure the cabinet is deep enough to accommodate the microwave and allows for proper ventilation.
- You can either purchase a microwave that’s designed to be built-in or buy a trim kit to give your current microwave that custom look.
This method hides the microwave entirely behind the cabinet doors, and it just blends in with the rest of the kitchen.
2. Microwave Drawer
This is such a cool option! I had a friend who installed a microwave drawer, and after seeing it in action, I was really tempted.
Steps:
- Install a microwave drawer in one of your lower cabinets—these microwaves pull out like a drawer and are super easy to access.
- They’re designed to integrate seamlessly into your cabinetry, so you won’t even notice it’s there.
- Plus, it frees up counter space and gives your kitchen a sleeker, more modern feel.
Microwave drawers are a bit of an investment, but the convenience and clean look are totally worth it.
3. Hide It in a Pantry or Closet
If you have a pantry or a small closet in or near your kitchen, hiding the microwave there is another great option.
Steps:
- Clear out a shelf in your pantry or storage closet that’s close to the kitchen.
- Place the microwave on the shelf, and just close the door when you’re not using it!
- Make sure there’s a power outlet inside the pantry or closet, or install one to avoid having to move the microwave every time you use it.
This method is perfect if you want to keep the microwave completely out of sight but still accessible when needed.
4. Tuck It Under the Counter
I decided to tuck my microwave under the counter in one of my base cabinets, and it worked like a charm.
Steps:
- Remove a cabinet door and create an open shelf where your microwave can sit comfortably.
- Install the microwave in the newly created space and add trim around it to give it a built-in appearance.
- This setup keeps the microwave off the countertop, and it’s at a lower height, which I’ve found convenient for taking hot dishes out.
Having it under the counter not only hides the microwave but also makes it easier to access.
5. Hide It Behind a Sliding Door or Pocket Door
This was an idea I played around with—installing a sliding or pocket door to conceal the microwave.
Steps:
- Install a sliding or pocket door in one of your upper cabinets or on a small section of wall space.
- Tuck the microwave behind the door, and you can just slide it open when you need to use it.
- This gives you easy access while keeping the microwave hidden from view.
I love the idea of having it hidden behind a sleek door that matches the rest of the kitchen design.
6. Create a Kitchen Island with a Microwave Space
When I was remodeling my kitchen, I seriously considered building a custom island with a spot for the microwave.
Steps:
- Design a kitchen island with a designated space for the microwave—usually on the side of the island, facing inward.
- Make sure the area has proper ventilation and access to an electrical outlet.
- You can either have the microwave exposed but neatly tucked away, or add cabinet doors to hide it completely.
A kitchen island with a microwave space keeps the microwave out of sight and adds functionality to your kitchen layout.
After exploring all these options, I ended up going with the built-in cabinet, and it completely transformed the look of my kitchen. No more microwave cluttering up my counter! If you’re tired of seeing that bulky appliance every day, one of these solutions could be exactly what you need to create a cleaner, more organized kitchen.
