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1. Putting regular plastic items in the microwave
Certain types of ceramics, glassware, or even plastic containers can be used in microwaves, but not all plastic containers are safe. Microwave-safe plastics are manufactured with human health safety properties. Typically, when purchasing plastic items, manufacturers will note whether you can use them in the microwave or not.
2. Completely covering food when cooking
Similar to cooking items with shells or wraps, completely covering food when cooking in the microwave can easily build up pressure as the temperature rises, leading to explosion. Covering food while cooking is necessary, but remember not to completely seal it, leaving a little opening to release steam.
3. Putting fruits, eggs with shells, or canned foods in the microwave
Fruits, eggs still in the shell, pepper, or canned foods should not be put in the microwave as they will either degrade in quality or explode (in the case of eggs). Thick-skinned foods such as potatoes, apples, pumpkin, or nuts must be peeled before placing in the microwave. Items with tight coverings or thick skins should be punctured or cut open, lids should be removed, or bottle caps loosened before cooking.
4. Placing Styrofoam containers in the microwave
Styrofoam containers are also a form of synthetic plastic, which when exposed to high temperatures, deform and can damage the microwave.
5. Putting the microwave on top of the refrigerator or oven
To save space, many households often place the microwave on top of the refrigerator, oven, or near the stove. This practice can reduce the lifespan of electronic devices. Additionally, when the microwave malfunctions, placing it near other electronic devices or gas stoves poses greater safety risks and makes it more difficult to handle when emergencies occur.
6. Boiling water in the microwave
When heating sauce in the microwave, the expansion of water molecules without forming bubbles can cause the sauce to splatter, dirtying the microwave. It may even splatter directly onto you, causing burns. Foods requiring sauce such as chicken, or fish should also avoid being heated in the microwave. If necessary, when heating, the dish should be wrapped with microwave-safe food wrap before being placed in the microwave.
10. Mini thermos flask or insulated flask
Mini thermos flask, double-walled flask, or hot and cold flask made of stainless steel will prevent the hot steam from the microwave from coming into contact with the liquid inside, which can even damage the microwave. If the thermos flask is made of plastic, you need to carefully check whether the material is safe for the microwave.
11. Metal utensils
Metal objects are something to keep far away from the microwave. Because the microwaves cannot penetrate metal and are reflected back into the oven cavity, heating up the surroundings, leading to fire, explosions, oven damage, and serious consequences for those nearby.
12. Shellfish with hard shells
Microwaving seafood such as crab, clams, or snails will strip away their nutrients and delicious flavors. Moreover, it can release unpleasant odors akin to rubber.
13. Opening the door while the microwave is in use can cause burns.
Leaving the microwave door ajar poses numerous dangers as microwaves can scatter outside unchecked. This recurring issue can adversely affect the health of household members. Additionally, abruptly opening the door while cooking can result in burns.
14. Silver foil
Wrapping food in silver foil for microwave use can hinder the penetration of microwaves, leading to electrical sparks and potential fire hazards. Furthermore, never place paper bags, plastic bags, or newspapers in the microwave as they may emit harmful gases or ignite under high temperatures within the microwave.
15. Grapes
Some fruits can withstand high temperatures, but grapes will burst into flames and explode if put in the microwave. Dried grapes will catch fire and produce smoke.
Above are absolute prohibitions for microwave use. Hope the information in this article will help you use the microwave safely and correctly.
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