How do you choose the right size freestanding microwave?

Freestanding microwaves are very similar in appearance. Yet, they differ more than you'd expect. To choose the right size, it's useful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What do you want to heat up in the microwave?
• Where will you place the microwave?
• Does the microwave have enough ventilation space where you want to place it?

With freestanding microwaves, you have to consider the internal dimensions. It's important that the interior is large enough for your dinner plates, warm-up containers, or pacifier sterilizers. That's why you have to measure them to check if they fit in the microwave. You can use the internal dimension filters for this. If you have elongated oven dishes, choose a microwave without a turntable.

Which microwave capacity you need, depends on what you want to prepare. If you only heat up soup or ready-made meals, a 25L capacity is enough. If you choose a combi microwave to also prepare casseroles and lasagna, a capacity of 25 to 40L is suitable. Do you want to go big and prepare a whole chicken or turkey? In that case, a 40L microwave or larger is the right choice for you.

It's also essential to consider the external dimensions of the freestanding microwave. Some microwaves look small at first glance, but they can be quite deep. Measure the place where you intend to place the microwave and choose the correct dimensions of the appliance. It's also important to take into account if the door can open properly where you intend to place it.

A microwave needs enough space on all sides to get rid of the warm air. If you place a microwave against the wall or in a cabinet, the appliance has the risk of overheating. This creates dangerous situations and that's not what you want. So make sure your new purchase has enough ventilation space in its future location. You can find the required space in the manual. On average, about 10 to 20cm on all sides is enough.