For rising and proofing, I use the oven. I boil water in my kettle and place it in the oven with the lid off. The result is warmish and steamy. I never thought of turning on the light!
I only bake sourdough and haven't found a great warm spot for my sponge, but I let it ferment overnight on the counter and it seems to work okay. Maybe I'll try the microwave with a cup of fresh-boiled water ... I'm a newbie, so any comments on my approach are welcome!
February 13, 2016 at 9:35pm