In an era of ever-evolving kitchen gadgets, one humble appliance continues to hold a special place in British hearts and homes: the microwave. Despite the meteoric rise of the air fryer, this stalwart of convenience is far from being relegated to the back of the cupboard.
A Personal History with a Kitchen Staple
For many, the microwave is more than just a machine; it's a repository of personal history and nostalgia. One journalist recounts a family history peppered with microwave mishaps, from a mother blowing one up while working as a waitress to their own ill-fated attempt at warming a sausage roll. Yet, through it all, the appliance proved remarkably sturdy and reliable.
This durability is a common boast. One Reddit user proudly claimed their model has been ticking along for an impressive 37 years. This particular writer's family microwave, affectionately nicknamed Heather, was a constant supporting presence in their childhood, from providing hot chocolate after a tough PE lesson to helping with period cramps. Its eventual departure when their parents moved house left a genuine sense of loss.
The Air Fryer Era: A Cause for Concern?
The kitchen landscape has undoubtedly shifted with the arrival of the air fryer. In 2023, the world went mad for them, with celebrity endorsements like Drew Barrymore's 'Beautiful Air Fryer' fuelling the trend. A 2024 survey by Good Food Nation found that 58% of British households now own an air fryer, a figure that surpasses those using traditional ovens.
For microwave loyalists, this sparked fears of obsolescence. However, the data tells a different story. In 2025, microwaves remain a household staple for 75% of Brits. The global revenue for microwave ovens this year is estimated to be a staggering £7 billion, proving their economic and practical staying power.
Expert Insight: Why Microwaves Remain Essential
So, what is the secret to the microwave's enduring appeal? According to Eva Bleyer, a kitchen appliances lab reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, it's a combination of convenience, speed, and versatility.
"We've been testing microwaves in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances Lab since 1984, and over those 40-plus years, they've remained a staple in many home kitchens," Bleyer confirms. "Known for their convenience, speed, and versatility, microwaves can handle everything from defrosting meat to popping popcorn with ease."
She highlights that they are faster than traditional ovens for everyday tasks like reheating leftovers. Furthermore, technological innovations have kept them relevant. Many modern microwaves now feature inverter technology, which provides a steady stream of power for more even cooking. Some models even come with built-in air fryers or toaster ovens, creating versatile all-in-one units.
"While they may feel nostalgic to some, microwaves continue to be a trusted tool for generations of home cooks," Bleyer adds. "Even myself, a trained chef, will reach for my microwave throughout the week for everything from reheating leftovers to toasting nuts."
The People's Appliance: Unpretentious and Authentic
Beyond the technical specs, the microwave holds a unique cultural position. It is the appliance of the people, serving everyone from professional chefs to construction workers on their lunch break. Its influence even extends into internet culture, with figures like 'Microwave Man'—a TikTok sensation who dispenses wisdom while cycling with a microwave on his head—becoming unlikely therapists.
In a world of complex and often pretentious kitchen tech, the microwave stands out for its authenticity. It doesn't pretend to be something it's not. It sits proudly on the counter, offering its simple, reliable service. In challenging times, finding joy and nostalgia in these everyday objects can be a small but meaningful act of romanticising our daily lives.
