Microwave-Safe Cookware

Use microwavable cookware.Ovenproof GlassOvenproof glassware that is treated for high intensity heat so it is heat-resistant is microwave-safe. Use utility dishes, loaf dishes, pie plates, cake plates, liquid measuring cups, casseroles and bowls without metal rims.Do not use delicate glassware, such as tumblers or wine glasses, as these might shatter when heated.ChinaUse bowls, cups, serving plates, pottery, stoneware, ceramic, and platters without metal rims or handles. Many containers made of these materials are microwave-safe, but test them before use.PlasticPlastic Storage Containers: Use plastic dishes, cups, semi-rigid freezer containers and plastic bags only for short cooking times. Do not use them when cooking food for long periods or at high power levels, as the hot food will eventually warp or melt the plastic.Plastic wrap (as a cover): Lay the plastic wrap loosely over the dish and press it to the sides. Vent plastic wrap by turning back one edge slightly to allow excess steam to escape. The dish should be deep enough so that the plastic wrap will not touch the food. As the food heats it may melt the plastic wrap wherever the wrap touches the food.Plastic Cooking Bags: Provided they are specially made for cooking, cooking bags are microwave safe. Remember to make a slit in the bag so that steam can escape. Never use ordinary plastic bags for cooking in the microwave oven, as they will melt and rupture.Plastic Microwave Cookware: A variety of shapes and sizes of microwave cookware are available. You may be able to use items you already have on hand rather than investing in new kitchen equipment.PaperUse paper towels, waxed paper, paper napkins, and paper plates with no metal rims or design. Look for the manufacturer’s label for use in the microwave oven. Paper plates and containers are convenient and safe to use in the microwave oven, provided that the cooking time is short and the foods to be cooked are low in fat and moisture. Paper towels are also very useful for wrapping foods and for lining baking trays in which greasy foods such as bacon are cooked. Avoid colored paper products as the color may run. Do not use recycled paper products in the microwave oven. They may contain impurities which could cause arcing or fires when used in the microwave.TablewareMany containers made of pottery, stoneware and ceramic are also microwave-safe. If in doubt consult the manufacturer’s literature or perform the microwave test.Do not put plates with painted decoration in the oven, as the paint may contain metal and cause arcing.

Microwave-Unsafe Cookware

Metal Containers/Metal DecorationNever use metal or metal-rimmed cookware in the microwave oven.Microwaves cannot penetrate metal. They will bounce off any metal object in the oven and cause arcing, an alarming phenomenon that resembles lightning.Metal shields the food from microwave energy and produces uneven cooking. Also avoid metal skewers, thermometers, foil trays, metal-rimmed or metal-banded dinnerware, casserole dishes, etc. The metal rim interferes with normal cooking and may damage the oven.Aluminum FoilAvoid large sheets of aluminum foil because they hinder cooking and may cause harmful arcing. Use small pieces of foil to shield poultry legs and wings.Keep ALL aluminum foil at least 1 inch from the side walls and door of the oven.WoodWood bowls and boards will dry out and may split or crack when you use them in the microwave oven. Baskets react in the same way.Tightly Covered CookwareBe sure to leave openings for steam to escape from covered containers.Pierce plastic pouches of vegetables or other food items before cooking.Tightly closed pouches could explode.Brown PaperAvoid using brown paper bags.They absorb too much heat and could burn.Flawed or Chipped CookwareAny container that is cracked, flawed, or chipped may break in the oven.Metal Twist TiesRemove metal twist ties from plastic or paper bags.They become hot and could cause a fire.

Testing Cookware before Use

Most heat resistant and non-metallic cookware is safe for use in your oven. However, some cookware may contain materials that are not suitable for microwave use. Follow the steps below to find out if cookware can be used in the microwave.Place the container in question and a glass measuring cup filled with water next to each other inside the oven. Heat the container and glass measuring cup for 1 minute at HIGH power.If the water heats up but the container remains cool to the touch, the container is microwave-safe.If the temperature of the water does not change but the container becomes warm, it is not safe for use in the microwave oven.Some items with high lead or iron content are not suitable for microwave cooking.Cookware should be checked to ensure that it is suitable for use in the microwave.Always be careful when taking cookware out of the oven. Some dishes absorb heat from the cooked food and may be hot.