Ever opened your microwave after heating up leftovers, only to find splatters decorating the inside like abstract art? We’ve all been there! That messy reality is why microwave covers are such a kitchen essential. But walk down the aisle or scroll online, and the choices can feel overwhelming. What’s the best material? Are some sizes better than others? Will it actually fit my microwave? It’s enough to make you want to just leave the door open and hope for the best!
Choosing the right microwave cover shouldn’t be a chore. It should be a simple step towards a cleaner, more enjoyable kitchen. This post is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll explore the different types of covers available, discuss what makes them effective, and help you find the perfect one for your needs. Get ready to say goodbye to microwave messes and hello to a tidier cooking experience!
Our Top 5 Microwave Covers Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Covers Detailed Reviews
1. Nordic Ware BPA-free and Melamine Free Plastic Splatter Microwave Cover
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of messy microwave explosions? The Nordic Ware BPA-free and Melamine Free Plastic Splatter Microwave Cover is your simple solution. This set of two clear covers keeps your microwave clean by stopping food splatters. It also helps keep your food warm after cooking, so your meals are ready when you are. They are designed to fit most dinner plates up to 10 inches wide.
What We Like:
- These covers stop food splatters, making your microwave much cleaner.
- They fit dinner plates up to 10 inches, which is most plates.
- The covers are made from plastic that is safe for you, as it’s BPA and Melamine free.
- You can easily clean them because they are safe for the top rack of your dishwasher.
- Vents in the lid let steam escape, so food doesn’t get soggy.
- They are made right here in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The interior size is 9.375 x 9.375 x 2 inches. This might be a bit small for very large or oddly shaped dishes.
- While they cover up to 10 inches, the exterior dimensions are slightly larger at 10.5 inches. This is good to know for storage.
Overall, these Nordic Ware microwave covers are a practical addition to any kitchen. They make cooking and reheating meals much tidier and more efficient.
2. Tovolo Microwave Splatter Cover for Food
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of messy microwave explosions? The Tovolo Microwave Splatter Cover in Medium Charcoal is here to save your day! This clever gadget keeps your microwave clean and helps your food heat up evenly. It’s made from safe, BPA-free silicone and even has a cool dual-purpose design.
What We Like:
- Keeps your microwave spotless by preventing splatters.
- Heats food evenly with its smart vented design that lets steam escape.
- Fits most standard microwaves and plates up to 10 inches wide.
- Collapses flat to just 0.75 inches for super easy storage.
- Works as a colander to rinse fruits and veggies.
- Made from durable, heat-resistant, food-safe silicone.
- Easy to clean; just pop it in the dishwasher.
- Available in different sizes to fit all your dishes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The handle might wear out if used for opening. It’s better to gently push the top to lift it.
This Tovolo splatter cover is a fantastic kitchen helper. It makes reheating food a breeze and keeps your microwave looking brand new.
3. Tovolo Microwave Splatter Cover for Food
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of messy microwave explosions? The Tovolo Microwave Splatter Cover is here to save the day! This large, charcoal-colored cover is designed to fit even the biggest microwaves, keeping your food contained and your appliance clean. It’s made from safe, BPA-free silicone and plastic, so you can heat your meals without worry.
What We Like:
- It’s super large, fitting over big plates and tall dishes.
- It collapses down small, making it easy to store.
- It can also be used as a colander for rinsing food.
- It’s safe to use in the microwave and dishwasher.
- It expands easily to cover your food.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to push up the bottom to open it, not pull the handle.
This Tovolo splatter cover is a smart addition to any kitchen. It’s practical, versatile, and keeps your microwave spotless.
4. Microwave Splatter Cover Vented for Food
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of messy microwave explosions? Meet your new kitchen superhero: the Microwave Splatter Cover Vented for Food! This clever gadget is more than just a cover; it’s a space-saving, multi-tasking marvel designed to make your life easier.
What We Like:
- Made from high-quality, BPA-free PP+TPR material, it’s safe and built to last.
- It pops up to 3 inches to cover even tall dishes, then folds down to a slim 0.75 inches for easy storage.
- The built-in hook hole lets you hang it up, freeing up precious counter space.
- Ventilation holes let steam escape safely, preventing soggy food and avoiding pressure buildup.
- It keeps your microwave spotless by catching all those annoying food splatters.
- Use it as a plate cover for serving food at the table.
- It doubles as a colander! Easily rinse fruits and veggies right in the cover.
- It’s completely dishwasher-safe for effortless cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for most common microwave messes, very large or particularly messy meals might still require extra caution.
- The foldable design, while space-saving, might feel slightly less rigid than a solid cover.
This versatile kitchen gadget is a must-have for anyone looking to simplify meal prep and cleanup. Get yours and say goodbye to microwave messes for good!
5. Rock 4 Pack of Microwave Plate Bowl Splatter Cover. Keep Your Microwave Clean While Heating Messy Items with Vented
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of cleaning up messy splatters inside your microwave? The Rock 4 Pack of Microwave Plate Bowl Splatter Covers is here to save the day! This set of four colorful, vented lids makes reheating all sorts of food a breeze. No more scrubbing tomato sauce or cheesy drips off the microwave walls. These covers keep your microwave sparkling clean.
What We Like:
- Assorted Colors: You get four fun, colorful covers in each pack.
- Keeps Microwaves Clean: They stop food from splattering everywhere.
- Dishwasher Safe: Pop them in the top rack of your dishwasher for easy cleaning.
- See Your Food: The covers are clear, so you can still see your food heating up.
- Vented Design: Little vents let steam escape, so your food doesn’t get soggy.
What Could Be Improved:
- Assorted Colors: While fun, you can’t pick specific colors.
- Size Limitations: They work best with standard plates and bowls, so larger dishes might not fit.
These splatter covers are a simple yet effective solution for a common kitchen annoyance. They help you heat food without making a mess, and cleaning them is super easy.
Microwave Covers: Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend
Is your microwave a messy monster after reheating leftovers? Splatters and steam can make cleaning a chore. A microwave cover is your simple solution! It keeps your microwave spotless and your food evenly heated. Let’s dive into what makes a great microwave cover.
Why You Need a Microwave Cover
Microwave covers are more than just lids. They prevent food from splattering all over your microwave’s interior. This saves you time and effort on cleaning. They also help your food cook more evenly. Steam gets trapped, which helps your meals heat up thoroughly.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a microwave cover, keep these important features in mind:
Ventilation is Key
- Vented Designs: Many good covers have small holes or slits. These let steam escape. This prevents pressure from building up inside. It also stops your food from getting soggy.
- Adjustable Vents: Some covers let you control the steam. You can open or close the vents. This is great for different types of food.
Size Matters
- Generous Diameter: Make sure the cover is big enough for your plates and bowls. You don’t want it to be too tight. A larger cover works for most dishes.
- Height: Consider the height too. Taller covers work well for steaming vegetables or reheating tall containers.
Ease of Use and Storage
- Collapsible Options: Some covers fold flat. This makes them easy to store. They fit in drawers or cabinets without taking up much space.
- Dishwasher Safe: Look for covers you can toss in the dishwasher. This makes cleaning super simple.
- Handles or Grips: A handle or easy-grip edge makes it safe to remove the hot cover. You won’t burn your fingers.
Important Materials
The material of your microwave cover affects its durability and safety.
BPA-Free Plastics
- Polypropylene (PP): This is a common and safe plastic. It’s sturdy and can handle microwave heat. Always check that it’s labeled “BPA-free.” This means it’s safe for your food.
- Silicone: Silicone is a flexible and heat-resistant material. It’s also BPA-free. Silicone covers are often easy to clean and store. Some can even be used as a splatter guard on the stovetop.
Glass Covers
- Tempered Glass: Some premium covers are made of tempered glass. This material is durable and doesn’t absorb odors. Glass covers can be heavier but offer a very safe and clean option.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a microwave cover better or worse.
What Makes a Cover Great
- Sturdy Construction: A cover that feels solid and well-made will last longer. It won’t warp or break easily.
- Effective Ventilation: Good vents are crucial. They prevent messes and ensure even cooking.
- Easy Cleaning: A cover that wipes clean easily or is dishwasher safe is a winner.
- Secure Fit: The cover should sit securely on your plate or bowl. It shouldn’t slide off easily.
What to Watch Out For
- Thin or Flimsy Plastic: Cheap plastic can warp or melt in the microwave. It might also leach chemicals.
- Poor Ventilation: If a cover has no vents, steam can build up. This can lead to explosions of food.
- Difficult to Clean: Covers that stain easily or are hard to scrub are annoying.
- Unpleasant Odors: Some plastics can give off a chemical smell when heated. Avoid these.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a microwave cover is straightforward. You simply place it over your food before putting it in the microwave.
Everyday Use
- Reheating Leftovers: This is the most common use. It keeps spaghetti sauce from splattering onto the microwave ceiling.
- Cooking Frozen Meals: Covers help steam frozen meals, making them taste fresher.
- Steaming Vegetables: Place your veggies in a bowl, add a little water, and cover. They will steam perfectly.
Beyond the Microwave
- Food Storage: Some covers can double as lids for storing food in the fridge.
- Keeping Food Warm: A cover can help keep food warm for a short time after cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of using a microwave cover?
A: The main benefit is preventing food splatters inside your microwave. This keeps your microwave clean and saves you cleaning time.
Q: Are all microwave covers safe to use?
A: Not all. Look for covers made from BPA-free plastic or silicone. These materials are safe for microwave use.
Q: How do I know if a cover is the right size?
A: The cover should be large enough to fit over your largest plates and bowls with some extra room. Check the dimensions before buying.
Q: Do microwave covers help food cook faster?
A: They help food cook more evenly. They trap steam, which helps heat food thoroughly. This can make cooking feel faster.
Q: Can I put a microwave cover in the dishwasher?
A: Many are dishwasher safe. Always check the product description or packaging to be sure.
Q: What if my cover doesn’t have vents?
A: If your cover has no vents, you should leave a small gap between the cover and the plate. This allows steam to escape.
Q: Can I use a microwave cover to store food in the fridge?
A: Yes, many microwave covers can also be used to cover food in the refrigerator.
Q: What does “BPA-free” mean?
A: BPA-free means the plastic does not contain Bisphenol A. This is a chemical that can be harmful when heated.
Q: How do I clean a microwave cover that has stains?
A: For stubborn stains, you can try a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for a while, then scrub and rinse.
Q: Can I use a glass bowl as a microwave cover?
A: Yes, a glass bowl can work as a cover if it fits well. Make sure it is microwave-safe and has no metal trim.
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.