We often think of our microwave as a magic box that heats up leftovers, cooks meals in minutes, and even sterilizes items. However, this powerful appliance isn’t suitable for everything. Microwaving the wrong items can lead to disaster, causing damage to your microwave or even posing health risks. Here are 9 items you should never put in your microwave.
1. Metal Objects
Microwaving metal objects can create sparks and cause a fire. While this might seem like common sense, you’d be surprised how many people accidentally leave spoons in their coffee mugs or try to heat up foil-wrapped food. For a microwave-safe experience, always double-check for hidden metallic items.
2. Plastic Containers
Not all plastic containers are microwave-safe. Microwaving certain plastics can release harmful chemicals into your food. Always check the bottom of the container for a microwave-safe label. If you’re unsure, transfer the food to a glass or ceramic dish before microwaving.
3. Styrofoam
Styrofoam containers can melt and release toxic chemicals when microwaved. Despite this, people often heat up their takeout in the same Styrofoam box it came in. Always transfer food to a microwave-safe dish to avoid exposure to harmful substances.
4. Eggs
Microwaving a whole egg can cause it to explode due to steam pressure building up inside the shell. If you must cook an egg in the microwave, crack it into a microwave-safe bowl, scramble it a bit, and make sure to cover the bowl.
5. Fruits
Believe it or not, certain fruits like grapes or apples can either explode or catch fire when microwaved. These fruits have high water content, which turns into steam and can cause the fruit to burst. It’s a science experiment you don’t want to try.
6. Paper Bags
Paper bags can catch fire when microwaved due to their thin, combustible material. It might seem convenient to reheat your popcorn in its original paper bag, but the risk of starting a fire makes this a no-go.
7. Chili Peppers
Heating chili peppers in the microwave can release capsaicin, the compound that makes them hot. This can irritate your eyes and throat, essentially turning your microwave into a makeshift pepper spray dispenser. Proceed with caution.
8. Baby Bottles
Microwaving baby bottles can result in uneven heating, causing ‘hot spots’ that can burn a baby’s mouth. Always heat baby bottles in a pot of warm water or use a bottle warmer to ensure even heat distribution.
9. Travel Mugs
Many travel mugs have a metallic lining, making them unsuitable for microwaving. Even if the mug is marked ‘microwave-safe,’ the seal or liner might deteriorate over time, releasing harmful chemicals. It’s always better to pour the drink into a microwave-safe ceramic mug.
In conclusion, microwaves are indispensable for quick and convenient cooking, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Being aware of what not to microwave can save you from dangerous outcomes. Always think twice before you heat, and when in doubt, always opt for microwave-safe alternatives.
