Microwave just died. Do we really need a new one?

[uberalice]

We do use the microwave quite frequently but I'm wondering if it's absolutely necessary or if we could manage without it. Is it not just another kitchen gadget that is costing the earth to make / transport / use?

it depends what you use it for.

If you have dc young enough and you use a microwave steriliser then obviously you would need one, unless you get a new one.

We use ours to heat up gel hot water bottles in winter/ when feeling unwell, so would need one.

We use ours to do baked potatoes while the oven is in use, so we would always need to have one.

We also use it to heat soups, much more economical than using the gas hob.

no. I've never used one and i have 4 kids. was convinced by suggestions it could reduce vitamins more than cooking.