How To Make A Countertop Microwave Look Built-In

An organized kitchen is ideal for a busy home cook. You do not want to waste precious time transferring one equipment from one spot to another when you’re preparing meals. As much as you can, all tools and machines should be fixed in the right corners where you can access them easily. Of course, they should also look good all together.

Whether you are having a minor or a major kitchen renovation, deciding on layout and design is an exciting challenge.

As a home cook, the microwave could be one of your must-have pieces. So, it’s a great idea to integrate it into your kitchen layout.

How to make a countertop microwave look built-in? Read on.

Integrate Countertop Microwave Into Kitchen Layout

Countertop microwaves come in different sizes. They are so easy to install as they are designed to be placed wherever there is enough room on your counter.

However, you might want to veer away from the traditional countertop space. Can you put a countertop microwave in a cabinet? Of course, you can!

You can simply place your microwave in a built-in hole in your cabinetry. However, you should make sure that there is enough room at the back, on top, and the sides for venting. Ideally, there should be at least one-inch space for each vent area.

For a more integrated look, add a trim kit to this hack. Some microwaves come with a trim kit that is typically made of plastic, wood, or metal. Trim kits also come in different sizes and kinds moldings that you can install above, below, or beside your microwave to make it look like built-in.

If your appliance does not come with a trim kit, make a DIY trim for built-in microwave. You can use wood moldings and cut them so that each piece fits into space.

Another option is to place your microwave in a nook in your cabinetry and install a fold-up little door. So, if it’s not in use, you can tuck it away from plain sight, making your kitchen more neat and organized.

Safety First

Follow these safety tips when integrating your microwave into a built-in hole in your cabinetry:

1. When moving the appliance, make sure that it is unplugged.
2. You can also turn off the circuit breaker to avoid accidental contact with electricity.
3. Remove the turntable glass so that you do not risk breaking it when you move it.
4. Make sure that the door is tightly latched when moving it.
5. Check the vents to make sure that your nook will be able to provide enough breathing space for your microwave. With countertop microwaves, vents are usually on the sides or top.
6. Do not force the microwave in if it does not fit in the hole or if there no enough space for the vent areas.
7. Do not push the appliance all the way to the back of the nook.
8. When in the built-in hole, the microwave should be plugged into a grounded electric outlet. Do not use extension cords.
9. Remove the appliance from the built-in hole every three months. Unplug it and use a damp cloth to eliminate dust and other particles.

Conclusion

How to make a countertop microwave look built-in is easy with basic carpentry skills. But, you have to do it with caution. Always observe safety precautions. As to design and layout, make sure that colors and materials are well-coordinated to achieve a sleek, built-in look.