Microwaves have become an essential appliance in many kitchens today. Whether it’s for reheating leftovers, cooking quick meals, or warming beverages, a microwave saves us valuable time and effort. When I was searching for an affordable and compact microwave for my small apartment, the Mainstays microwave caught my eye.
Its reputation for being budget-friendly and user-friendly made it a tempting choice. After using it for several months, I wanted to share my personal experience, insights, and everything you need to know before buying one. If you’re like me and have limited space but still want a reliable microwave, this review might help you decide if Mainstays is the right fit.
What is the Mainstays Microwave?
The Mainstays microwave is a compact, budget-friendly microwave oven that is designed for small spaces like dorm rooms, offices, or tiny kitchens. It’s part of Walmart’s in-house brand and is popular because of its low price and simple features.
The model I bought has a capacity of 0.7 cubic feet, which is perfect for heating small plates, mugs, or bowls,s but not meant for large meals. It runs at 700 watts of power, enough for reheating and basic cooking, though it takes a bit longer than more powerful microwaves.
My Personal Experience with the Mainstays Microwave:
I live in a small studio apartment, so countertop space is very limited. I needed a microwave that wouldn’t take up too much room but could still handle my daily reheating and simple cooking needs. After reading reviews and comparing prices, I decided to go with the Mainstays microwave because it was very affordable — priced around $60 — and came in a stainless steel finish which matched my kitchen appliances.
At first, I was a little worried because of some negative reviews about durability. But so far, after about six months of use, it’s been pretty reliable. The microwave heats my coffee, leftover meals, and frozen snacks well enough for daily use. The 10 power levels let me adjust heating power depending on what I’m cooking, and the quick-set buttons (like the 30-second express) are very handy when I’m in a rush.
The microwave’s small turntable ensures even heating most of the time, but sometimes thicker food takes longer to heat through. It is also surprisingly quiet, which is great because I often use it late at night without disturbing anyone.
Features and Benefits of the Mainstays Microwave:
Here’s what makes the Mainstays microwave stand out as a budget microwave option:
- Compact Size: With dimensions around 19.2” x 15” x 11.5”, it fits well in small spaces. If you are looking for a compact microwave for small spaces, this one is perfect.
- Power Levels: It offers 10 power levels to customize cooking from defrost to full power. This helps prevent overcooking or underheating.
- Easy Controls: The LED display, kitchen timer, clock, and simple buttons make it easy to use microwave even for beginners.
- Affordable Price: At roughly $60, it’s an affordable microwave oven that doesn’t break the bank.
- Color Options: Available in black, white, red, and stainless steel, so you can pick one to match your kitchen décor.
- Turntable: The rotating turntable allows food to heat evenly without manual stirring.
Performance – How Well Does It Heat?
Since my microwave is a 700-watt model, it’s not as powerful as higher-end microwaves (usually 900-1200 watts), but it does its job well for basic heating and cooking. Small meals, snacks, and beverages warm up in a reasonable time. If you’re planning to cook heavy meals or large dishes, it may not be ideal.
I found the heating evenness generally good thanks to the turntable, but occasionally, I had to stir or rearrange my food to make sure it warmed uniformly. The noise level is low, so it won’t be a nuisance even in quiet spaces like offices or dorms.
Who Should Consider Buying a Mainstays Microwave?
This microwave is best suited for:
- People with small kitchens or limited countertop space
- College students need a small microwave for dorm rooms
- Offices or break rooms where quick reheating is needed
- Those looking for a reliable microwave brand on a budget
- Anyone needing a second microwave for light use
Limitations and Considerations:
While the Mainstays microwave is convenient and affordable, it does have limitations to keep in mind:
Lower Power:
The Mainstays microwave runs at 700 watts, which is less powerful than many other microwaves. This means it takes longer to cook or reheat food. While it works well for simple tasks, it might not be ideal if you need quick heating or want to cook meals that require higher power for the best results.
Small Capacity:
With a capacity of only 0.7 cubic feet, the Mainstays microwave is designed for small dishes and containers. It cannot accommodate large plates, big bowls, or family-sized meals. If you often cook for multiple people or use large cookware, this microwave may feel too cramped and limit what you can prepare at once.
Basic Features Only:
Unlike more expensive models, the Mainstays microwave offers only basic functions. It lacks advanced features like convection cooking, grilling, or sensor-based automatic cooking. This means you have to manually set times and power levels, and you miss out on smart cooking modes that adjust time and temperature for optimal results.
Variable Reliability:
Some users have reported that the Mainstays microwave may develop problems within the first year, such as uneven heating or complete failure. This variability is common in budget appliances. It’s important to check the warranty and return policies before buying, so you can easily replace or return it if issues arise early on.
Things to Keep in Mind – Downsides and Limitations!
Every product has its drawbacks, and the Mainstays microwave is no exception. Here are some things you should consider before buying:
- Durability Concerns: Some users report early failures within the first year. If it stops heating, it’s best to return it or exchange it rather than attempt repairs.
- Limited Capacity: The 0.7 cubic feet size is small, so it cannot accommodate large plates or big family-sized meals.
- Basic Features: It lacks advanced options like convection cooking, grilling, or sensor cooking found in pricier models.
- Heating Speed: Due to its 700-watt power, it takes longer to heat food compared to higher wattage microwaves.
Common Uses of the Mainstays Microwave:
Reheating leftovers like pizza slices, pasta, or rice.
Reheating Leftovers:
The Mainstays microwave is ideal for quickly reheating leftovers like pizza slices, pasta, or rice. Its compact size and 700-watt power make it perfect for warming small to medium portions efficiently. It saves you the hassle of using a stove or oven, delivering hot and ready food in just a few minutes without much effort.
Warming Beverages:
This microwave efficiently warms beverages such as coffee, tea, or soup. It heats liquids evenly and quickly, making it a great choice for busy mornings or quick breaks. Its compact design fits small kitchens or offices well, saving time by providing warm drinks fast without the wait, helping keep your daily routine smooth.
Cooking Simple Meals:
The Mainstays microwave can cook simple meals like microwaveable dinners or frozen foods with ease. It’s especially convenient for students, office workers, or anyone needing a fast and fuss-free cooking option. By following package instructions, it quickly heats ready-to-eat meals, making it perfect for those who want to avoid complicated cooking.
Defrosting Small Portions:
This microwave is useful for defrosting small amounts of meat, poultry, or vegetables. Its moderate power gently thaws food safely before cooking, which helps with quick meal prep or last-minute cooking. However, for larger portions, defrosting might take longer compared to more powerful microwaves, so it’s best suited for smaller servings.
Heating Snacks Quickly:
The Mainstays microwave is great for heating snacks like popcorn or instant noodles. Its quick-set buttons and simple controls let you prepare your favorite snacks within minutes. This makes it a handy appliance for late-night cravings or quick bites during busy days, offering convenience without complicated settings or long waiting times.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Mainstays Microwave:
If you decide to buy this microwave, here are some tips for best use:
- Check Warranty: Before purchasing, always check the return and warranty policy carefully. This helps you avoid any trouble if the microwave stops working or has issues early on. Knowing your options for returns or repairs can save time and money.
- Use Safe Containers: Always use microwave-safe containers like glass or microwave-safe plastic. Avoid metal or non-approved materials to prevent damage to the microwave and to ensure your food heats evenly and safely.
- Cook Small Portions: The Mainstays microwave has a compact size and 700-watt power, so it works best with small portions or light meals. Avoid cooking large or heavy foods that take longer to heat, as this may cause uneven cooking or strain the appliance.
- Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning keeps your microwave smelling fresh and prevents food build-up, which can affect performance. Wipe down the interior after spills and clean the turntable often to maintain hygiene and smooth operation.
- Use Quick-Set Buttons: When you’re in a hurry, the quick-set buttons are very handy for reheating common items quickly. They save time by automatically setting the right power and time, making your cooking experience simple and efficient.
FAQS:
Is the Mainstays microwave good for everyday use?
Yes, the Mainstays microwave is ideal for daily use, especially for reheating food, making snacks, and warming beverages. Its compact size and simple controls make it perfect for students, single users, or anyone with limited kitchen space. It’s efficient, budget-friendly, and reliable for most small kitchen tasks.
Can I cook meals in the Mainstays microwave?
You can cook basic meals such as frozen dinners, microwave noodles, or pre-packed items. However, it doesn’t support advanced cooking features like grilling or convection. It’s best suited for quick, convenient cooking without a stove. For more complex meals, a larger or multifunction microwave may be better.
Does the Mainstays microwave come with a warranty?
Yes, most Mainstays microwaves include a limited manufacturer’s warranty, usually covering defects for a set period. Always check the product details or manual to know the exact terms. Registering the product after purchase is also recommended to ensure support if you encounter issues later.
Is this microwave safe to use in dorms or small apartments?
Absolutely. The Mainstays microwave is designed to fit in small spaces, making it perfect for dorm rooms, office break rooms, or small apartments. Its lightweight design and low wattage also suit shared living situations where larger appliances may not be allowed or practical.
How do I clean the Mainstays microwave properly?
To clean, use a damp cloth and mild soap for daily wipe-downs. For deeper cleaning, microwave a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes to loosen stuck food. Wipe the interior afterward. Regular cleaning helps maintain its performance and prevents bad odors or buildup.
Conclusion:
The Mainstays microwave is an affordable and compact kitchen appliance, ideal for reheating, warming drinks, and cooking small meals. It fits perfectly in tight spaces like dorms or studio apartments and is easy to use with simple controls and 10 power levels. Despite its 700-watt power, it handles everyday tasks efficiently.
However, it’s not suitable for large meals or advanced cooking features. With low noise, color options, and budget-friendly pricing, it’s a great value if you’re looking for functionality over high-end performance. Its lightweight design makes it easy to move when needed. The defrost function works well for frozen foods. It’s also energy-efficient, helping to reduce electricity costs.
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