Counterless microwaves???

[lindrusso]

I don't have one of these, so I can't comment from experience, but are kids now or in the future a consideration? My microwave happens to have a lock feature and there are straps you can get to keep them locked, but I just wanted to mention that safety could be a factor to consider. Having a microwave within reach of kids would make me nervous http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif . Of course the determined child will get to it no matter what....

[This message has been edited by lindrusso (edited 10-10-2000).]

[Beth]

lindrusso, you're right. That's been one of my questions. My youngest (4) can already reach both the countertop one and the one above the oven. He can't operate all the controls on the one above the oven because you have to start by pushing one of the top buttons. However, he can get to just about anything in the kitchen or pantry with a stool. He makes some good messes, but he's really pretty careful. As long as the paper towels, mop and my heart hold out, we'll probably be okay.

Are you talking about the closure type straps they have for appliances generally? Does anyone know whether they make microwaves with a child-lock, similar to dishwashers and such? I guess a cabinet door covering it might give another way to deter access and to keep it out of sight and out of mind.

[lindrusso]

Originally posted by Beth:
Are you talking about the closure type straps they have for appliances generally? Does anyone know whether they make microwaves with a child-lock, similar to dishwashers and such? I guess a cabinet door covering it might give another way to deter access and to keep it out of sight and out of mind.

I was talking about the strap, but also about a lock feature on the microwave itself. On my microwave there is a "code" or something that you punch in and it will disable the keypad. Kind of handy for those curious little guys!!

[NancyR]

I'm sure of your layout, but is there any way you can put your micro above your stove? That's how I have mine and I LOVE it that way. Not only does it save counter space but you can take things out of the microwave and sit them down onto a cool burner.

[Beth]

No, it can't go over the stove unless it's hung by chains from a 13-foot ceiling. I also can't relocate the cooktop or sink because I live in an area with cement slab foundations, and the plumbing, gas lines and such are fixed in the concrete. I'm becoming convinced that I have one of the world's most limited kitchens for something that looks so big (it's open to the breakfast and family rooms -- like one big room people walk into and say, "Wow!" But they don't cook here).

I haven't bought a microwave since the convection oven, and that was more than 10 years ago. I'll definitely look for the child-proof coding, especially if we put it under the counter -- but even if it goes higher. What brand is yours, and do you know if that's a common feature? Thanks.

[lindrusso]

My over-the-range microwave is a Kenmore. I seem to remember that the child-lock was a pretty standard feature (or at least not unusual), but don't quote me on that!

[Beth]

I plan on replacing my wall oven and micro with double ovens and fitting a small micro into the cabinets somewhere, possibly in the island. I also have a countertop convection/microwave that I'm not ready to part with.

I have seen pictures of kitchens where the microwave has been put under the countertop. Does anyone have one like that. I'm interested in how it works in actual use. My husband is reluctant to try it. Also, any ideas on what to do with the covenction combo that could get it off the countertop would be appreciated. (Can't go over the cooktop, which is in an island and has no hood.)

[Beth]

Originally posted by lindrusso:
My over-the-range microwave is a Kenmore. I seem to remember that the child-lock was a pretty standard feature (or at least not unusual), but don't quote me on that!

You're already quoted, but I won't take this shopping with me. My last purchase was made when an automatic popcorn button was still a pretty big deal. After talking with my husband last night, I'm not sure we're settled on what appliances we want to wind up with. I'm also beginning to wonder whether those new ovens that cook at microwave-like speed using light should be considered. I'll be glad when I don't have any more decisions to make. Meanwhile, thanks for your input.