Stop Cleaning Your Microwave. Seriously.
This simple silicone lid completely eliminates the daily chore of scrubbing splattered food from the inside of your microwave.
The Tovolo Microwave Splatter Cover isn’t just another piece of plastic; it’s a thoughtfully designed, collapsible silicone tool that solves a universal kitchen annoyance. If you’re tired of messy reheating and want a gadget that actually saves you space and time, this review breaks down my real-world experience using it.
- Truly Space-Saving The ability to collapse down to just 0.75 inches is a genuine game-changer for anyone with crowded kitchen drawers or limited cabinet space.
- No More Soggy Leftovers Its perforated vents are perfectly placed to release steam, which prevents food from getting soggy and helps it heat more evenly.
- Bonus Colander Feature While not its main job, the ability to use it as a small colander for rinsing berries or vegetables is a surprisingly useful and clever design perk.
- Effortless Cleanup As a single piece of silicone, it’s incredibly easy to clean. You can just toss it in the dishwasher without worrying about trapped food or complicated parts.
Keep your microwave spotless with this vented cover that heats food evenly. Its clever collapsible design saves valuable kitchen space by flattening to under an inch for easy storage.
| Material | BPA-Free, Food-Grade Silicone |
| Dimensions (Expanded) | 10.5" L x 10.5" W x 3" H |
| Dimensions (Collapsed) | 10.5" L x 10.5" W x 0.75" H |
| Max Plate/Bowl Size | Under 10 inches in diameter |
| Primary Use | Microwave Splatter Cover |
| Secondary Use | Colander / Strainer |
| Heat Resistance | Heat-Resistant Construction for Daily Use |
| Cleaning Method | Dishwasher Safe |
- Collapses to under an inch, making it incredibly easy to store in a drawer.
- Vents prevent food from getting soggy by allowing steam to escape during cooking.
- Fits over most standard dinner plates and bowls up to 10 inches.
- Silicone handle is easy to grip and doesn’t get dangerously hot.
- Dual-functionality as a small colander is a clever space-saving bonus.
- One-piece design is extremely easy to clean and is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- The 10.5-inch diameter may not cover oversized dinner plates or large serving bowls.
- Charcoal color makes it difficult to see the food inside while it’s cooking.
- Silicone can absorb odors from very strong foods like curry or garlic if not washed promptly.
Choosing the right Kitchen Gadgets
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Material Safety & DurabilityHighThe material determines heat resistance, cleaning ease, and food safety. It's the most important factor for anything that will touch your food.Look forBPA-free, food-grade silicone or plastic. Silicone is often more durable, flexible, and less prone to warping.AvoidFlimsy plastics that could warp or melt at high temperatures, or materials without a food-safe certification.
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Size and ClearanceHighThe cover must fit your microwave and be large enough for your typical plates and bowls without touching the food.Look forA diameter that covers your largest dinner plates (typically 10-11 inches) and enough height (3+ inches) to avoid touching the food.AvoidCovers that are too small in diameter or too short in height, which completely defeats the purpose.
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Venting SystemHighProper venting is crucial for preventing soggy food and dangerous pressure buildup inside the microwave.Look forAdjustable or permanent vents that allow steam to escape effectively and promote even heating.AvoidSolid covers with no vents, which can lead to messy steam explosions and mushy results.
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Storage FootprintMediumMicrowave covers can be bulky and awkward. Consider how and where you will store it when not in use.Look forCollapsible designs like this Tovolo model, or covers with flat tops that allow for easy stacking.AvoidRigid, dome-shaped covers if you have limited cabinet or drawer space.
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Ease of CleaningHighSince its job is to get splattered with food, the cover itself must be simple to clean.Look forDishwasher-safe materials and simple, one-piece construction without nooks and crannies that trap food.AvoidCovers with magnets or multiple parts that must be disassembled to wash properly.
Common questions
Does the silicone get too hot to touch after microwaving?
The main body and handle stay surprisingly cool. While the areas directly over the escaping steam can get warm, the finger grips are designed for easy, safe removal right out of the microwave without needing an oven mitt.
Will it stain with tomato sauce?
Like many silicone products, it can be prone to light staining from potent sauces like tomato or curry if left unwashed for a long time. However, a quick rinse after use or a run through the dishwasher usually prevents any permanent discoloration.
How sturdy is the collapsible feature? Will it collapse on my food?
It’s very sturdy when expanded. The design locks into place with a satisfying pop and requires intentional downward pressure on the top to collapse it, so there’s no risk of it accidentally falling onto your food during use.
Is the colander feature actually useful?
Yes, for small jobs it’s quite handy. It’s perfect for rinsing a pint of berries, a handful of cherry tomatoes, or a small bunch of grapes directly in the sink. It won’t replace your large kitchen colander for pasta, but it’s a great bonus feature.
The Tovolo splatter cover excels with its brilliant collapsible design, making storage a non-issue for even the most cluttered kitchens. It effectively contains messes and is incredibly easy to clean. While it might not fit the largest dinner plates, its combination of smart features and durable construction makes it an essential tool.
- Ingenious collapsible design saves valuable drawer space.
- Vented top ensures food heats evenly without becoming soggy.
- Made from durable, BPA-free silicone that is dishwasher safe for effortless cleaning.
For anyone tired of cleaning a messy microwave, the Tovolo Splatter Cover is a simple, effective, and space-saving solution. Its durable, food-safe silicone construction and dual-purpose design make it a standout kitchen gadget that’s well worth the small investment. It’s an easy recommendation for apartment dwellers, families, and anyone who values a clean kitchen.
