Does your microwave feel a little… plain? Maybe you just use it to heat up leftovers. But what if your microwave could do so much more? Think about steaming veggies perfectly, popping popcorn without burning it, or even making mug cakes that taste like they came from a bakery. It’s true! Your microwave is a hidden superhero, and the right accessories can unlock its full power.
Choosing the best microwave accessories can be tricky, though. There are so many things out there! You might wonder which ones are actually useful and which ones are just taking up space. Do you need a special rack? What about those silicone covers? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and just stick with what you know. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!
In this post, we’ll explore some of the coolest and most helpful microwave accessories. We’ll tell you what they do, why they’re great, and how they can make your cooking easier and more fun. By the end, you’ll know exactly which accessories can turn your everyday microwave into a kitchen superstar. Get ready to discover some game-changing tools!
Our Top 5 Microwave Accessories Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Accessories Detailed Reviews
1. Tovolo Microwave Splatter Cover for Food
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of messy microwave explosions? The Tovolo Microwave Splatter Cover in charcoal is here to save your microwave! This handy gadget keeps your meals from splattering everywhere, making reheating a breeze. It’s made from safe, heat-resistant silicone and is designed to make your kitchen life easier.
What We Like:
- Keeps your microwave clean by preventing food splatters.
- It heats food evenly with a smart vented design that lets steam escape.
- The medium size fits most standard microwaves and plates, measuring 10.5 inches.
- It collapses down to just 0.75 inches, making it super easy to store in any cabinet.
- It’s not just for the microwave! It can also be used as a colander to rinse fruits and veggies.
- Made from BPA-free, food-safe silicone, so it’s safe for your food.
- The silicone is strong and can handle high temperatures, perfect for daily use.
- Cleaning is a snap because it’s dishwasher safe.
- Tovolo offers different sizes to fit all your reheating needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The handle might not be the most durable part; it’s best to gently push the top to open it.
This Tovolo splatter cover is a practical kitchen tool that simplifies meal prep and cleanup. It’s a smart addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and cleanliness.
2. HOVER COVER Magnetic Splatter Cover
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of cleaning up messy microwave splatters? The HOVER COVER Magnetic Splatter Cover is here to save the day! This 12-inch clear, BPA-free lid fits most microwaves and keeps your appliance spotless. Its clever design includes magnetic storage, steam vents, and a durable build, making it a must-have kitchen gadget.
What We Like:
- The magnetic storage is super handy. It sticks to the top of your microwave, so you always know where it is and it saves counter space.
- It effectively stops food from splattering all over your microwave, making cleanup a breeze.
- The built-in steam vents allow steam to escape, which helps food cook evenly and prevents it from getting soggy.
- It’s made from safe, BPA-free material that can handle high temperatures (up to 300°F).
- It’s dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning it up really easy after you use it.
- It’s compatible with a wide range of popular microwave brands.
What Could Be Improved:
- It won’t work with microwaves that have stainless steel interiors, so you need to check your microwave before buying.
- You need to confirm your microwave has a flat metal ceiling for the magnets to stick to. Watching their compatibility video is a good idea.
This HOVER COVER is a smart and simple solution for a cleaner microwave. It makes reheating food much less of a mess and keeps your kitchen tidy.
3. Microwave Splatter Cover Vented for Food
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of messy microwave explosions? Meet your new kitchen hero: the Microwave Splatter Cover Vented for Food. This handy gadget is more than just a lid; it’s a multi-tasking marvel designed to keep your microwave clean and your cooking easy. Made from safe, BPA-free materials, it’s built to last and perfect for everyday use.
What We Like:
- High Quality Material: Crafted from durable PP + TPR thermoplastic rubber, this cover is safe for your microwave and dishwasher. It’s BPA-free, meaning it’s good for your health.
- Space-Saving Design: It pops up to 3 inches for tall foods and folds down to a slim 0.75 inches. The built-in hook hole lets you hang it up, saving precious counter space.
- Smart Ventilation: The cover has holes that let steam escape. This helps your food cook evenly and safely.
- Keeps Your Microwave Clean: No more scrubbing splattered food! This cover stops messes before they happen. It also works as a serving cover for your dishes.
- Multifunctional Colander: Need to rinse some berries or veggies? This lid doubles as a colander. Water drains right through the small holes, making food prep a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- Single Pack: The product comes as a single unit, so you might need to buy more if you have a large family or often cook multiple items at once.
- Material Feel: While durable, some users might prefer a slightly different texture for the plastic and rubber components.
This Microwave Splatter Cover is a smart addition to any kitchen. It simplifies cleaning and adds versatility to your cooking routine.
4. Nordic Ware BPA-free and Melamine Free Plastic Splatter Microwave Cover
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of messy microwave splatters? The Nordic Ware BPA-free and Melamine Free Plastic Splatter Microwave Cover is here to save your kitchen! This set of two clear covers keeps your microwave clean while cooking. They also help keep your food warm after it’s done. They fit over dinner plates up to 10 inches wide, so they’re great for most meals.
What We Like:
- Keeps your microwave spotless by stopping food from splattering.
- Helps keep your food warm after cooking, so it’s ready when you are.
- Fits most dinner plates, making it super versatile for your meals.
- Made from safe plastic that is BPA and Melamine free.
- Easy to clean because it’s top rack dishwasher safe.
- Vents in the lid let steam escape, preventing it from building up.
- Proudly made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The interior dimensions are a bit specific, so double-check your plate size.
These covers are a simple and effective way to make microwave cooking cleaner and more convenient. They are a practical addition to any kitchen.
5. Tall Glass Microwave Splatter Cover for Food – Cookware & Bakeware Serving Dish Cover
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of messy microwave explosions? Meet your new kitchen hero: the Tall Glass Microwave Splatter Cover. This handy lid keeps your microwave spotless while ensuring your food heats up perfectly. It’s made from tough, high-performance glass, so it’s a safe and healthy choice for your family.
What We Like:
- Keeps your microwave super clean by stopping food splatters.
- Made from safe, food-grade glass that won’t melt or scratch.
- It doesn’t release yucky chemicals like BPA or lead into your food.
- The dual venting holes let steam out safely and help food heat evenly, so it stays moist.
- You can easily see your food while it’s heating up through the clear glass.
- The easy-grip silicone handle makes it simple to lift and move the lid.
- It’s completely dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
- Perfect for all sorts of microwave tasks, from reheating leftovers to steaming veggies.
- Designed and built in the USA with high-quality materials.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 3lbs, it’s a bit heavier than plastic covers, which might be a minor inconvenience for some.
- The 10-inch diameter is great for most plates, but very large dishes might not fit completely underneath.
This glass splatter cover is a smart and safe addition to any kitchen. It makes microwaving cleaner and your food tastier.
Microwave Accessories: Make Your Microwave Work Harder!
Your microwave is a handy kitchen tool, but it can do even more with the right accessories. These helpers can make cooking faster, cleaner, and more fun. Let’s explore what to look for when picking out microwave accessories.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for microwave accessories, keep these important features in mind:
- Size and Fit: Does it fit inside your microwave? Measure your microwave’s interior before you buy. A good fit means you can use it easily.
- Versatility: Can you use it for different tasks? Some accessories steam vegetables, others reheat pizza, and some even bake small treats. More uses mean more value.
- Ease of Cleaning: Nobody likes scrubbing tough messes. Look for accessories that are dishwasher-safe or easy to wipe down.
- Safety: Is it safe for your microwave? Make sure the material won’t melt or spark. Look for labels that say “microwave-safe.”
- Durability: Will it last? Good quality accessories stand up to regular use without breaking or losing their shape.
2. Important Materials
The material of your microwave accessory matters a lot.
- Silicone: This is a popular choice. Silicone is flexible, heat-resistant, and usually safe for microwaves. It’s also easy to clean. You’ll find silicone mats, lids, and even baking molds.
- Glass: Glass is another great option. It’s non-porous, so it doesn’t hold onto smells or stains. It’s also very durable and easy to clean. Look for tempered glass for extra strength.
- BPA-Free Plastic: When plastic is used, make sure it’s BPA-free. This means it’s safer for food. Lids and containers are often made from this.
- Stainless Steel: Some accessories, like racks or steamers, might use stainless steel. This is strong and heat-resistant. However, always check if it’s safe for microwave use, as some metals can cause problems.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a microwave accessory great, and what makes it not so great?
- Good Design: Accessories with smart designs work better. For example, a steamer basket with good airflow helps food cook evenly. A lid with a vent lets steam escape safely.
- Heat Distribution: Some accessories help spread heat more evenly. This means your food cooks through without hot spots.
- Material Quality: Higher quality materials last longer and perform better. Cheap plastic might warp or melt. Good silicone stays flexible.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make better products. They stand behind their quality. Reading reviews from other users also helps.
- Clear Instructions: Easy-to-understand instructions make using the accessory simple. If it’s confusing, you might not use it to its full potential.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How do people actually use these accessories?
- Steaming Vegetables: A silicone or metal steamer basket lets you cook healthy vegetables quickly. Just add water to the bottom, place your veggies in the basket, and microwave.
- Reheating Pizza: A pizza crisper pan absorbs moisture. This helps your leftover pizza crust stay crispy, not soggy.
- Cooking Eggs: Special egg poachers or microwave-safe mugs let you cook eggs easily. You can make scrambled eggs or poached eggs in minutes.
- Baking Small Treats: Silicone muffin cups or small baking pans allow you to bake single servings of muffins or cakes.
- Covering Food: Microwave-safe lids or splatter covers keep your microwave clean. They also help food heat more evenly by trapping steam.
- Storing Leftovers: Some accessories are also good for storing food in the fridge or for reheating.
Choosing the right microwave accessories can really upgrade your cooking game. Think about what you want to do in your microwave, and pick accessories that make those tasks easier and safer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in microwave accessories?
A: You should look for size and fit, how versatile it is for different tasks, how easy it is to clean, its safety for microwave use, and how durable it is.
Q: What are the most common materials used for microwave accessories?
A: Common materials include silicone, glass, BPA-free plastic, and sometimes stainless steel.
Q: How does the material affect the quality of a microwave accessory?
A: Good materials like high-quality silicone or tempered glass are heat-resistant and last longer. Poor materials might warp or melt, reducing quality and safety.
Q: What makes a microwave accessory’s design better than another’s?
A: A good design often includes features like proper ventilation for steam or even heat distribution, making cooking more effective.
Q: Can I use any metal in my microwave?
A: Generally, no. While some stainless steel accessories are designed for microwave use, most metals can cause sparks and damage your microwave. Always check if an item is marked “microwave-safe.”
Q: How do microwave accessories improve the user experience?
A: They make cooking faster, prevent messes, help food cook more evenly, and allow you to do more than just reheat, like steaming or baking.
Q: What are some common use cases for microwave accessories?
A: People use them for steaming vegetables, reheating pizza to be crispy, cooking eggs, baking small portions, and covering food to prevent splatters.
Q: Are silicone microwave accessories safe?
A: Yes, silicone is a popular and safe choice for microwave accessories because it is heat-resistant and flexible.
Q: How can I ensure a microwave accessory is good quality?
A: Look for well-known brands, read user reviews, and check for durable materials and smart design features.
Q: What should I do if I’m unsure if an accessory is microwave-safe?
A: Always check the product packaging or the item itself for a “microwave-safe” symbol or label. If in doubt, it’s best not to use it in the microwave.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.