How to Prepare a Microwave for Moving or Storage

Start with the short version

Preparing a microwave for a move or for long-term storage is a three-part job: clean it, secure the loose parts, and protect it from impact. If you do those three things, the microwave is much more likely to arrive clean, intact, and ready to work in the new kitchen.

Before you do anything, unplug the microwave and let it cool completely. Then follow the same basic kitchen cleaning rule that applies to food prep: wash surfaces with hot soapy water after food contact. That keeps spills from hardening into stains while the unit sits in a box.

Clean the interior, exterior, and vents

Remove the turntable, roller ring, and any removable rack before cleaning the cavity. Wash those parts in warm soapy water, rinse them, and dry them completely. The turntable cleaning guide has more detail if you need it.

Wipe the interior ceiling, walls, floor, and door seal with a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid getting water into the control panel or the vent openings. For stuck-on food, refer to the interior cleaning guide. Clean the exterior and the control panel as well; a greasy surface collects dust and can feel sticky after months in storage. If you have a stainless steel model, use the stainless steel cleaning guide.

Remove and secure the turntable

Microwave ovens often use a turntable to rotate food during cooking, a feature introduced to create more even heating than earlier designs. The glass plate and its ring are fragile and can slide against the cavity walls during transport, so it is safest to take them out.

Wrap the glass plate in bubble wrap or foam and place it upright against the side of the box, or put it in a separate small box. The roller ring and coupler can go in the same padded space. If you ever need to replace a damaged plate, the turntable replacement guide explains the parts and options.

Secure the door and power cord

Close the door and use tape to hold it shut. If the door feels loose, place a folded piece of cardboard between the door and the front frame before taping; this reduces movement around the hinge area.

Wrap the power cord around the back of the unit or coil it and secure it with a twist tie. A dangling cord can catch on box edges or other items during the move.

Pack the microwave upright in a padded box

Use a sturdy box that leaves room for padding on all sides. If you kept the original box and foam inserts, use them. Otherwise, fill the bottom of the box with crumpled paper, foam sheets, or packing peanuts.

Stand the microwave upright in the center of the box and fill the empty space around it with padding so it cannot shift. Keep the microwave upright rather than laying it flat; the internal parts are arranged for an upright position. Once the box is full, close the top and label it with an upright arrow and the word fragile.

Storage-specific preparation

A microwave going into storage needs the same cleaning and packing steps as one going into a moving truck, but you can take extra time to make sure it is completely dry. Moisture left inside the cavity can lead to rust or mildew.

Leave the door slightly ajar during long storage so air can move through the interior. Store the box in a dry, temperature-stable spot away from direct heat and dampness. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of the microwave box.

After the move or after storage

Once the microwave is in its new location, inspect the outside, the door, and the power cord before plugging it in. Remove the padding and tape, then reinstall the turntable and ring if you removed them.

Wipe the interior once more, especially if the microwave has been in storage for a while. You can verify that the unit is working by heating a cup of water for a short time. If it does not heat, the microwave not heating guide can help you troubleshoot. If you are not keeping the old unit, see how to recycle an old microwave for the proper steps.

To move it or replace it

Before you invest time packing a very large or very old microwave, ask whether it is worth moving. If you are relocating a kitchen and do not want to carry a heavy over-the-range unit, you may prefer to arrange for the new kitchen first and choose a model that fits the new space. The over-the-range buying guide can help.

For countertop units, the choice often depends on how much counter space and power you will have in the new home. The countertop microwave guide covers the size options. If you are moving into a dorm, RV, or small apartment, the compact guide is a good starting point: compact microwaves.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Should I lay a microwave on its side when moving it?

No. Keep it upright. A microwave contains a magnetron, transformer, and other components arranged for upright operation. Laying it down can stress those parts, especially if the box is bumped.

Do I need to remove the glass turntable before moving?

Removing it is the safest approach. The glass plate and roller ring are fragile, and they can slide inside the cavity during transport. Wrap them separately and pack them upright.

Can I use the original box?

Yes, the original box with its foam inserts is ideal. If you do not have it, use a sturdy moving box and add padding around all four sides plus the top and bottom.

Should I leave the door closed or open during storage?

Close the door for moving, but for long storage you can leave it slightly ajar so air can circulate. Use tape for the move to keep the door from swinging open, then remove the tape when you store the unit.

How do I clean a microwave before storing it?

Remove the turntable and rack, wash those parts with warm soapy water, then wipe the interior and exterior with a soft cloth. Make sure every surface is completely dry before packing.

What if my microwave is too large or too old to move?

Consider replacement. If you decide not to move it, check local electronics recycling or donation options. The recycling guide covers the general steps.