usually, when mine kinks, it is time for a new one. But extremely hard to keep the twists out of it.

I take 2 pot holes /or gloves/rags holding the hose tight and run it thru it may take 2 or 3 times

To be truthful, I do not know.

can they be soften by a quick run in the microwave?

I really don't think there is anything you can do about it kinking though....I have to untangle mine every once in awhile as you walk around the house it tends to get tangled