First, check the rules for your Crous residence and see which appliances are already provided before buying anything. The Crous network says that microwaves are permitted under its national guidelines, unlike hobs and other cooking appliances that are not provided. If you do need to buy an appliance, a solo microwave is suitable for reheating and defrosting. You should also check local rules, the space available and the chosen model’s power consumption.
If you haven’t yet checked the rules you signed up to or the appliances provided, start there before choosing a model. The Crous network’s guidelines set out the rules for using electrical appliances in its residences.
If you’re allowed to buy a microwave, measure the space where you plan to put it and check the clearances specified in the manual. The cavity capacity alone won’t tell you whether it will fit: you’ll need to check the external dimensions too.
If you only need to reheat and defrost food, compare solo microwaves and make sure your containers will fit inside. The Sharp R-209 W product information, for example, lists both uses, but that doesn’t mean it’s suitable for every type of accommodation.
First, make sure you’re allowed to use the appliance in your accommodation. Then compare its size and the features you actually need.
| What to consider | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Rules and power consumption | Check the rules you signed up to and the appliances provided. Compare the model’s power consumption with your residence’s guidelines; the Crous network prohibits the use of extension leads with multiple sockets. | If I don’t yet know the rules at my residence, I want to avoid buying something I won’t be able to use. Around 50% of consumers put compliance first. |
| Space and capacity | Measure the space available and the ventilation clearances specified in the manual, then compare the turntable size with your containers. | In a small room, I need to be able to fit the appliance without losing the space needed around it, while still having room for my plate. Around 30% of consumers prioritise this fit with the available space and their containers. |
| Use and cleaning | Compare the controls and reheating functions you need for your meals, then check the model’s cleaning instructions. | If I mainly heat individual portions, I prefer simple settings and an easy-to-clean cavity. This simplicity comes first for around 20% of consumers. |
The Crous network’s national guidelines don’t describe the equipment in every residence. For example, a residence may provide a kitchenette with induction hobs.
Read the rules you signed up to again, check your residence’s documents and ask at reception if you’re still unsure which appliances are allowed.
A grill or fan oven function adds a cooking feature. The national rules allowing microwaves don’t necessarily mean these functions are permitted in your accommodation.
If you only need to reheat food, start by looking at solo models. Before buying a grill or combination model, ask your residence whether its functions are allowed.
Samsung France lists the MS23F301EAW/EF as having a microwave output of 800 W, but a power consumption of 1 150 W in microwave mode. These figures tell you different things.
Check the specific model’s power consumption and your residence’s electrical guidelines. The Crous network advises residents not to use extension leads with multiple sockets and to limit the number of appliances plugged in at the same time.
The instructions for reheating packaged food are also important when using a microwave. Anses highlights the possibility of substances migrating from food packaging.
Follow the product’s preparation instructions, particularly those covering the container, film, cooking time and power setting.
These models are useful points of comparison when looking at features; the brand alone won’t tell you whether an appliance is suitable for your residence.
Samsung France lists the MS23F301EAW/EF among its solo microwaves.
Sharp Consumer France describes the R-209 W as a 20 L solo microwave with mechanical controls.
Brandt lists the SM2602S among its freestanding solo microwaves.
The Crous network’s national guidelines for residence life allow microwaves. However, check the rules you signed up to and your residence’s guidance to find out what applies to your accommodation.
Don’t assume it covers their cooking functions: the Crous network distinguishes microwaves from cooking appliances that are not provided. Ask your residence to confirm whether the functions on the model you’re considering are allowed.
It helps you work out whether you really need to buy an appliance. For example, the Crous network describes a residence with individual kitchenettes fitted with induction hobs. Check the inventory for your own accommodation before choosing an appliance.
No. The Crous network’s national guidelines advise residents not to use extension leads with multiple sockets and to limit the number of electrical appliances plugged in at the same time. Also check the model’s connection instructions and your residence’s electrical guidelines.
Follow the preparation instructions on the meal and its packaging, particularly those about the container and film. Anses recommends following these instructions for food products intended for microwave use.