Microwave Oven Article Main Page

This guide provides a large number of helpful articles, grouped into sections, to help answer questions and share information on many 

Article categories

What is a microwave oven?

Microwave ovens (also commonly called a microwave) are a type of home appliance that heats and cooks various foods using extremely high frequency microwave electromagnetic waves. They’re a compact type of oven and especially helpful for cooking moderate sized portions of food in minutes and take up minimal countertop space in a kitchen.

Microwave ovens use a large transformer to produce an intense microwave frequency energy direct at close proximity to the food which is on a rotating motorized plate. The electromagnetic waves excite molecules in the food which creates heat as it works. Because the energy is directed in one place, it’s necessary for it to rotate in order for it to warm or be cooked evenly.

Most include either an electromechanical or digital timer to safely limit the cooking or warming time. Unlike a conventional oven or toaster oven, a microwave cannot crisp food, meaning they’re not ideal for some types of foods or food textures.

Microwave appliance basics

Microwave dishware topics

Maintenance & cleaning

how to clean a microwave with lime juice featured image

How To Clean a Microwave With Lime Juice

Get it sparkling clean, the natural way! Learn how to use lime, why it’s beneficial, and many more helpful microwave oven cleaning tips you can really use.