My family has a long and notable history with microwaves. My former mother set one off when she worked as a waitress, and I later took up ...
My family has a long and notable history with microwaves.
My former mother set one off when she worked as a waitress, and I later took up her path during a failed attempt to warm up a sausage roll.
But even though I often messed up with my microwave, it continued to work. They are strong and dependable. One user onReddit claimed that she has maintained hers running for 37 years. That's a device that lasts longer than most men I've encountered.
For many of us, microwaves evoke feelings ofnostalgia. Whether my family's (affectionately called Heather, I have no idea why) was warming up a large mug of hot chocolate for me after a distressing PE class, or preparing my hot water bottle to ease my first period cramps, she was consistently the supportive figure in my childhood.
I turned 25 when my parents relocated and chose to remove the kitchen cabinets, finding them neater without Heather. After a lifetime of being together, I can honestly say I still miss her deeply.
Certainly, we are currently in the era of the air fryer, and I worry that my cherished microwave is following the path of the bread maker — set to become an obsolete item.
Therefore, I have taken it upon myself, representing Heather and others in similar situations, to highlight their merits – and discover whether they still belong in our kitchens, and in our emotions.
Is there still a demand for microwaves?
I've always thought that any subject worth discussing has already been covered in aJedward tweet. Let's just say the pop duo has a strong opinion on microwaves.
On several different occasions, the formerX Factorcontestants felt the urge to praise microwaves on X. In February 2011, theyhypothesisedMicrowaves function like food converters, turning cold items into delicious meals.
This was then followed by something equally significantstatement in 2013, it stated: 'Without microwaves, popcorn would not be as popular.'
Although I won't list every tweet Jedward has ever shared regarding microwaves, understand that there are numerous ones. This includes this 2016 post:
However, in 2023, even though they had been available for more than ten years, the global population became extremely enthusiastic about air fryers.
Drew Barrymore was so captivated by the product that she even launched her own version: the Beautiful Air Fryer.
And, in 2024 survey by Good Food NationOver half of UK households (58%) reported owning an air fryer, surpassing the number using conventional ovens.
Certainly, for microwave enthusiasts like myself, this has been a source of worry.
Fortunately, I'm here to say that although popular, the air fryer hasn't replaced the microwave (at least not yet).
In 2025, microwaves remain a common kitchen appliance, with 75% of Britons continuing to use one.
DataAccording to Statista, the revenue generated in the global microwave ovens market this year is projected to be around seven billion pounds.
Microwaves can handle everything
Why do they remain so popular? When I decided I wanted to write this article, there was only one person who had sufficient expertise worth contacting: Eva Bleyer, reviews analyst for kitchen appliances at Good Housekeeping.
Fortunately, Eva has soothed my anxiety caused by the microwave.
"We have been evaluating microwaves in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances Lab since 1984, and during those more than 40 years, they have continued to be a common fixture in numerous home kitchens," she says.Articlepedia Today.
Popular for their ease of use, quick operation, and adaptability, microwaves can manage tasks ranging from thawing meat to making popcorn effortlessly.
They are quicker than conventional ovens for daily tasks such as warming up leftovers or quickly adding a rice packet to enhance your meal, with Eva noting that recent advancements have only increased microwaves' functions.
Eva mentions that numerous microwaves today are equipped with 'inverter technology,' which employs a circuit to provide a consistent and stable level of power during the entire cooking process (unlike traditional models that switch their power on and off to allow the food to spread heat).
She mentions that there are also additional features like 'built-in air fryers or toaster ovens' that keep them attractive to buyers.
'Although some may find them sentimental, microwaves remain a reliable appliance for many home cooks across different generations. Even I, a professionally trained chef, use my microwave during the week for various tasks such as warming up leftovers or toasting nuts,' says Eva.
The top 5 dishes you can prepare in the microwave, without any statistical backing
- Vegetable curry— ideal for the cold days coming our way
- Egg fried rice— the perfect complement to any meal
- Shakshuka — a lively variation on breakfast
- Banana bread muffin— requires just 5 ingredients!
- Salted popcorn— yes, popcorn is considered a meal
Microwaves represent their genuine and true nature
In my opinion, the microwave is useful for all. Whether it's professional chefs like Eva orworkers during their midday rest, it's the device of the people.
Microwaves also encourage members of the public to contribute to their communities.
For instance, Microwave Man (a mix of online folklore and a genuine superhero) has become a popular figure on TikTok, offering insightful advice while cycling with a microwave mounted on his head.
One of my most cherished pieces of guidance is: "You're going to face some tough moments. Don't keep trying to avoid the experience, as ultimately it will help you grow — and remember that."
There's no clear explanation for why the microwave plays such a crucial role in his therapeutic approach, but I, for one, am motivated.
Microwaves don't attempt to disguise their true nature. They are openly and noisily present in your kitchen, revealing their genuine identity.
And, despite the risk of delving too far, we are experiencing rather bleak times, making it more crucial than ever to idealize our lives, including our kitchen appliances.
Although my fondness for the microwave won't address global issues or eliminate deep-rooted gender bias, it may just offer a small moment of joy for you today.
Do you have a tale to tell?
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