Did you know your microwave can do so much more than just reheat leftovers? It’s true! Many of us use our microwaves for the basics, but there’s a whole world of accessories out there that can unlock new cooking possibilities and make your kitchen life a whole lot easier. If you’ve ever stared at a shelf full of steaming baskets, special covers, or fancy turntables and wondered, “What do I even need?” then you’re not alone. Choosing the right microwave accessories can feel overwhelming, with so many gadgets promising to be the next big kitchen essential.
But don’t worry! We’re here to cut through the confusion. By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll understand which accessories are worth your time and money. We’ll explore how these simple additions can help you cook healthier meals, save time, and even expand your microwave’s capabilities beyond just warming up your food. Get ready to discover some game-changing tools that will make your microwave your new favorite kitchen appliance.
Our Top 5 Microwave Accessories Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Accessories Detailed Reviews
1. Nordic Ware BPA-free and Melamine Free Plastic Splatter Microwave Cover
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of messy microwave explosions? The Nordic Ware BPA-free and Melamine Free Plastic Splatter Microwave Cover is here to save your kitchen! This set of two clear covers fits nicely over your dinner plates, stopping food from splattering everywhere while it cooks. They also help keep your food warm after you’re done heating it up. Plus, they’re made with safe plastic, so you don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals.
What We Like:
- It stops food from splattering in your microwave.
- It keeps your food warm after cooking.
- It fits plates up to 10 inches wide.
- The plastic is safe because it’s BPA and Melamine free.
- Cleaning is easy; just pop it in the top rack of your dishwasher.
- Little vents on top let steam escape, so your food doesn’t get soggy.
- It’s made right here in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The interior space is a bit snug for very tall foods.
- While they cover most plates, some larger serving platters might not fit.
These covers are a simple yet effective solution for cleaner microwave use. They offer great convenience and peace of mind for your everyday cooking needs.
2. To encounter Silicone Microwave Mat – Round 12″ x 12″ – Set of 2 Heat Resistant Multifunctional Mat
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of messy microwave splatters and burnt fingers? The To encounter Silicone Microwave Mat is here to save the day! This set of two round mats is designed to make your kitchen life easier. They’re perfect for covering food, preventing messes, and protecting your microwave. Plus, they have many other uses beyond just the microwave!
What We Like:
- Keeps your microwave clean by stopping food splatters.
- Acts as a non-stick surface for easy food release.
- Fits most standard microwave turntables (12″ diameter).
- Safely handles heat up to 446°F, making it great for ovens too.
- Super easy to clean – just pop it in the dishwasher.
- Works as a trivet to protect counters from hot pots.
- Can be used as a handy jar opener or utensil rest.
- The raised edges help catch spills and drips.
- Stylish design adds a touch of neatness to your kitchen.
- The silicone material is naturally non-slip and durable.
What Could Be Improved:
- To get the best heat protection, you need to overlap the two mats.
- These mats should not be used near an open flame.
This versatile silicone mat set is a smart addition to any kitchen. It simplifies cleaning and offers multiple ways to help you out.
3. FutureNavi Collapsible Microwave Splatter Cover
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of messy microwave explosions? The FutureNavi Collapsible Microwave Splatter Cover is here to save your kitchen from splatters and make reheating food a breeze. This clever lid is designed to fit over most dishes, pots, pans, and bowls, keeping your microwave clean and your food perfectly heated.
What We Like:
- It has special vents that let steam out. This keeps your food from getting soggy or dry.
- The lid folds flat. This saves a lot of space in your cabinets or drawers.
- It has a cool silicone handle. You can grab it right away without burning your fingers.
- It’s made from safe glass and BPA-free silicone. It’s strong and won’t break easily.
- Cleaning is super easy. You can put it in the dishwasher, and it won’t hold onto smells or stains.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it fits most dishes, very large or unusually shaped items might not be fully covered.
- The 10.8-inch size is good for many things, but a slightly larger option could be useful for bigger meals.
This splatter cover is a smart addition to any kitchen. It makes reheating food cleaner and easier.
4. Tovolo Microwave Splatter Cover for Food
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of messy microwaves? The Tovolo Microwave Splatter Cover is your new kitchen hero! This medium-sized charcoal cover keeps your microwave sparkling clean. It fits over most plates and bowls, making reheating leftovers a breeze. Plus, it’s designed to let steam escape, so your food heats up evenly every time.
What We Like:
- Keeps your microwave spotless by preventing food splatters.
- Heats food evenly thanks to its clever vented design.
- Collapses down to just 0.75 inches for super easy storage.
- Doubles as a colander for rinsing fruits and veggies.
- Made from safe, BPA-free, and heat-resistant silicone.
- Dishwasher safe for simple and hassle-free cleaning.
- Available in different sizes to fit all your dishes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The handle is mainly for lifting; push the top gently to open for better longevity.
This Tovolo splatter cover is a smart addition to any kitchen. It makes meal prep and reheating cleaner and more convenient.
5. Microwave Splatter Cover Vented for Food
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of messy microwave cleanups? The Microwave Splatter Cover Vented for Food is here to save the day! This handy kitchen gadget is more than just a splatter guard; it’s a multi-tasking marvel designed to make your life easier.
What We Like:
- High Quality & Safe: Made from tough, BPA-free PP+TPR material, this cover is built to last and safe for your family. It’s perfect for heating food in the microwave and can be popped right into the dishwasher when you’re done.
- Space-Saving Design: This cover folds flat to just 0.75 inches, making it super easy to store. It even has a hook hole so you can hang it up, keeping your kitchen counters clutter-free.
- Smart Ventilation: The built-in ventilation holes let steam escape safely. This means your food heats evenly and you won’t have to worry about pressure building up inside the microwave.
- Keeps Things Clean: Say goodbye to splatters and spills! This cover keeps your microwave spotless. Plus, it works great as a serving cover to keep your food warm at the table.
- Multifunctional Marvel: It’s not just a microwave cover! This gadget doubles as a colander. You can easily rinse fruits and vegetables right in it, making meal prep a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for most dishes, very deep bowls might not be fully covered.
- The folding mechanism, while convenient, might require a gentle touch to prevent damage over time with rough handling.
This versatile microwave cover is a must-have for any kitchen. It’s the perfect solution for cleaner microwaves and easier meal prep.
Microwave Accessories: Your Kitchen’s New Best Friends
Microwaves are super handy, but sometimes they need a little help to make cooking even easier and safer. That’s where microwave accessories come in! They can help you cook a wider variety of foods, keep your microwave clean, and even make your meals taste better. Let’s explore what to look for when you’re shopping.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re picking out microwave accessories, keep these important things in mind:
- Size and Fit: Make sure the accessory fits inside your microwave. Measure your microwave’s interior before you buy. Some accessories are adjustable, which is a great bonus.
- Ease of Cleaning: Nobody wants to scrub tough messes. Look for accessories that are dishwasher-safe or have smooth surfaces that wipe clean easily.
- Durability: You want accessories that will last. Check reviews to see if people say the product holds up well after repeated use.
- Safety: For anything that goes in the microwave, make sure it’s made from microwave-safe materials. This prevents melting or dangerous chemical reactions.
- Versatility: Can the accessory do more than one thing? A multi-purpose rack, for example, can be used for steaming, reheating, or even cooking.
Important Materials
The material of your microwave accessory matters a lot for safety and how well it works.
- Silicone: This is a very popular choice. Silicone is flexible, heat-resistant, and microwave-safe. It’s great for lids, mats, and even some cooking containers. It’s also easy to clean.
- BPA-Free Plastic: Always look for “BPA-free” on plastic items. This means they are safer to use with food. These plastics are usually sturdy and good for containers and racks.
- Stainless Steel: Some racks and steamers are made of stainless steel. It’s strong and can handle high heat. Just make sure it’s designed for microwave use.
- Glass: Glass is another excellent microwave-safe material. It’s non-porous, so it doesn’t absorb odors or flavors. Glass bowls and dishes are perfect for reheating and cooking.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Good Quality:
- Accessories made from thick, sturdy materials feel more robust.
- Well-designed accessories have smooth edges and no sharp points.
- Products with clear, easy-to-follow instructions are a plus.
- Accessories that fit snugly without being too tight are ideal.
- Poor Quality:
- Thin, flimsy materials can warp or melt.
- Rough edges or unfinished parts can be unsafe.
- Accessories that don’t fit well can be annoying to use.
- Products that stain easily or retain odors are not ideal.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use the accessory.
- Steaming Vegetables: A silicone steamer basket or a tiered rack lets you steam veggies quickly and healthily. This keeps nutrients in your food.
- Reheating Leftovers: A microwave-safe lid or cover keeps food from splattering. It also helps food heat more evenly.
- Cooking Specific Foods: Special accessories exist for things like baking potatoes, making popcorn, or even cooking eggs. These can make these tasks much simpler.
- Keeping Your Microwave Clean: Splatter covers are a lifesaver! They stop food from spraying all over the inside of your microwave. Silicone mats can catch drips.
- Organization: Some racks help you stack dishes, giving you more space inside your microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in microwave accessories?
A: You should look for accessories that are the right size for your microwave, easy to clean, durable, and made from safe materials. Versatility is also a great feature.
Q: What are the most important materials for microwave accessories?
A: The most important materials are BPA-free plastic, silicone, stainless steel, and glass. Always make sure the material is labeled as microwave-safe.
Q: How do I know if a microwave accessory is good quality?
A: Good quality accessories are made from thick, sturdy materials with smooth edges. They should also come with clear instructions and fit well.
Q: What makes a microwave accessory low quality?
A: Low-quality accessories are often made from thin, flimsy materials that can warp or melt. They might have rough edges or not fit properly.
Q: Can I use any plastic container in the microwave?
A: No, you should only use containers that are clearly labeled as “microwave-safe” and preferably “BPA-free.” Regular plastic can melt or release harmful chemicals.
Q: What is the best way to clean microwave accessories?
A: Many accessories are dishwasher-safe. For others, a simple wipe-down with soap and water is usually enough. Check the product’s instructions.
Q: How can microwave accessories help me cook healthier meals?
A: Accessories like steamer baskets allow you to steam vegetables, which is a healthy way to cook that preserves nutrients. They can also help you avoid using too much oil.
Q: What are some common uses for microwave accessories?
A: Common uses include steaming food, reheating leftovers without splattering, cooking specific items like potatoes or eggs, and keeping your microwave clean.
Q: Are silicone microwave accessories safe?
A: Yes, high-quality silicone is a very safe and heat-resistant material for microwave use. It’s also flexible and easy to clean.
Q: Can I stack dishes in my microwave using an accessory?
A: Yes, some microwave racks are designed to allow you to stack dishes safely, which can give you more cooking space and speed up meal preparation.
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.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!