From heating leftovers to preparing quick meals, the microwave is a vital appliance in many homes. However, not everything belongs in the microwave, and some items could cause serious disaster if microwaved. In this article, we’ll delve into nine items you should never put in your microwave, lest you risk turning this handy appliance into a proverbial Pandora’s box of calamities.
1. Metal Objects
Metal objects top the list of items that could spell disaster in your microwave. Metal reflects microwaves, causing them to heat up quickly and potentially cause a fire. This includes aluminum foil, metal utensils, and even twist ties from bread bags.
So, whether it’s a forgotten spoon in your bowl of soup or a little foil covering a leftover dish, beware! The sparks that emit could potentially ignite and cause a fire. Instead, consider using microwave-safe containers or dishes, such as those found here.
2. Plastic Containers
Not all plastic containers are created equal. Some plastic containers can melt or warp in the microwave, potentially releasing harmful chemicals into your food. It’s essential to check for the “microwave safe” label before using plastic containers in the microwave.
Remember, just because a container can withstand the fridge’s chill doesn’t mean it can take the heat from the microwave. When in doubt, transfer your food to a microwave-safe dish.
3. Styrofoam
Styrofoam, also known as Polystyrene, is a type of plastic that can release toxic fumes when heated. This can be harmful to both your health and the environment. It’s common in takeout containers and disposable coffee cups, making it a sneaky microwave offender.
It’s always best to transfer your food or drink to a microwave-safe container before heating. You can find a variety of these containers here.
4. Paper Bags
While paper might seem safe, it’s not a good idea to microwave paper bags. The thin, dry material can easily catch fire under the intense heat of the microwave. This is especially true for brown paper bags, which are often untreated and highly flammable.
Instead of risking a fire, transfer your popcorn or any other food items from the paper bag to a microwave-safe bowl or plate before heating.
5. Dry Sponges
It’s a well-known hack to sanitize wet sponges in the microwave, but attempting this with a dry sponge could lead to a disaster. Dry sponges can quickly catch fire in the microwave due to their porous nature and the heat’s intensity.
Always ensure your sponge is wet before you pop it in the microwave, and remember to keep a close eye on it while it’s inside. Limit the time to no more than two minutes to avoid any potential problems.
6. Eggs
Trying to hard-boil an egg in the microwave may seem like a time-saving hack, but it’s a recipe for disaster. The rapid heat from the microwave creates a lot of steam in the egg, which can cause it to explode, either in the microwave or after you take it out.
To avoid a messy explosion, it’s best to stick with traditional methods for hard-boiling eggs. However, if you must use the microwave, crack the eggs into a microwave-safe bowl, stir a bit, and then heat them.
7. Takeout Containers With Metal Handles
Those convenient takeout containers with metal handles are great for carrying your food, but they’re not microwave-safe. As we mentioned earlier, metal can spark and potentially cause a fire in the microwave.
Even if the main body of the container is microwave-safe, the metal handles are not. It’s always safer to transfer your leftovers to a microwave-safe dish before heating.
8. Non-Microwave Safe Ceramics
While many ceramic dishes are microwave-safe, not all are. Some may contain lead or other harmful materials that can leach into food when heated. Additionally, ceramics with metallic paint or trim can spark and cause a fire.
Always check the bottom of your dish for a “microwave-safe” label. If it doesn’t have one, it’s best to avoid using it in the microwave.
9. Unpopped Popcorn Kernels
Unpopped popcorn kernels can be a hidden disaster in your microwave. These kernels can get extremely hot and not pop, potentially causing a fire or damaging the microwave’s interior.
Always use popcorn that’s specifically labeled for microwave use, and follow the instructions on the package. If you’re using a popcorn maker, ensure it’s one that’s safe for microwave use, like this one here.
In conclusion, while microwaves are powerful and convenient, they aren’t suitable for every item. By steering clear of microwaving these nine items, you can avoid potential disasters and keep your microwave in good working order. Remember, safety should always come first in the kitchen.
