People have differing opinions about whether to put a metal bowl in the Microwave. Some say there’s nothing to it; others maintain that it is a recipe for disaster. But what do the facts say? Can you put a metal bowl in the Microwave? Allow us to demystify this and give you insight into what you can put in your Microwave.
Can you put a Metal Bowl in the Microwave?
Yes, you can put a metal bowl in the Microwave. Despite popular opinion, it is entirely safe to do so. But, some people have put metal in the Microwave, and it did not end well. What happened then?
While it is safe to put a metal bowl in the Microwave, we cannot say the same for other oddly shaped metal objects.
Items like foil, forks, or any sharp pointed objects can cause arcing and lead to some severe damage. Some people have even reported having their Microwave explode over stuff as little as the foil used to tie packaged bread.
Little details matter just as much as the big ones in safety matters. For example, it’s OK to microwave your pasta in a metal bowl, but take the fork out first!
What happens when you microwave metal?
Well, from our experience, nothing at all. Literally. Metal bowls are acceptable in the Microwave, although it might take a while for your food to warm up in many cases. That is if it warms up at all. It may not.
However, the rumors that putting metal in the Microwave will cause it to blow up or catch fire are not valid.
Unless the metal has sharp points, it will not affect anything. However, if there are pointed objects of any kind in the Microwave, this could lead to arcing, leading to combustion.
Is a stainless steel microwave safe?
Yes, it technically is. Not all metals cause arcing when microwaved. Only the oddly shaped metals do. So if you are using a stainless steel bowl, it shouldn’t cause you any problems.
But if you are in doubt and have other options, it is best to go for a glass bowl. As some people say, you can go for it, but is it worth the risk? Probably not.
Can you put tin in the microwave?
You can, but we would advise against it. Here’s why. Generally, food in metal containers does not heat up in a microwave. The Microwave will only create surface heating. When this happens in a tin can, it can cause an explosion if the can is closed.
How to heat food in an aluminum tray in the oven
Preheat your oven, place your tray in, and let it heat up. Remember to set the tray in the middle of the racks. Aluminum is excellent for conducting heat, so your food should be ready for consumption in no time!
Read also: Can You Put Plastic In The Oven?
How to Cover a Bowl in a Microwave
There are a couple of ways to cover a bowl in the Microwave to ensure your food heats up evenly without any parts getting burnt. Here they are:
Using plastic
You could use a plastic cover that fits the bowl you want to place in the Microwave. Before using any plastic item in the Microwave, ensure you check the packaging to ensure that it is safe for you to do so. If it is, then feel free to use it.
Also, ensure vents on the cover to ensure no steam buildup when microwaving. If you plan to microwave for a long time, avoid plastic wrap. Plastic wrap is excellent for microwaving vegetables and fish.
Using a glass lid
Most glass bowls come with lids, so you can use that to cover your bowl. If it does not come with a top, you can use another glass or ceramic lid or plate that comfortably covers the bowl.
Before you fire up your Microwave, leave some space to the side to prevent steam buildup. And, of course, check the bottom of your bowl to ensure that it is safe to use in a microwave. Although, to be fair, most ceramic or glass bowls are safe to use.
Using a paper towel
Although this may not be your ideal option, it is surprisingly great for absorbing grease and ensuring there is no steam buildup. If you opt to use a paper towel, make sure the label says it is OK for you to do so.
Avoid using recycled paper towels as they may contain metal particles, and we aren’t sure how well that would turn out. You can use parchment paper, but only if it doesn’t come in contact with your food.
How to Tell if Something is Microwave safe
Every container has a label that tells you if it is Microwave safe. In addition, most containers have a tag at the bottom of the container, so check the bottom to see if it is safe to reheat your food.
There are also certain symbols on the container that tell you if it is safe for you to use in a microwave, the logo usually looks like a microwave or a bunch of wavy horizontal lines.
How to Warm Plates in the Microwave
Warm your plates in the Microwave on a bowl of water to ensure that they don’t get damaged.
During dinner, serving food on warm plates is super important because if your dishes are cold, your food will cool off fast. So it would help if you warmed up your plates in the Microwave before serving the food. However, warming the plates directly can damage them, so we add a bowl of water to prevent that.
Best Microwave-Safe Containers
The best microwave-safe containers are glass containers. Any glass container marked as safe for microwave use should be your first choice. Alternatively, plastic lunch boxes with lids are also really great for microwaving. Those are our top two choices!
