12
Materials you can use in a microwave oven
Utensils Remarks
Browning dish Follow the manufacturer's instructions. The bottom of the browning
dish must be at least 3/16 inches (5mm) above the turntable.
Incorrect usage may cause the turntable to break.
Dinnerware Microwave-safe only. Follow manufacturer's instructions. Do not use
cracked or chipped dishes.
Glass jars Always remove lid. Use only to heat food until just warm. Most glass
jars are not heat resistant and may break.
Glassware Heat-resistant microwave oven glassware only. Make sure there is
no metallic trim. Do not use cracked or chipped dishes.
Microwave oven
cooking bags Follow manufacturer's instructions. Do not close with metal tie. Make
slits to allow steam to escape.
Paper plates and cups Use for short-term cooking/warming only. Do not leave the micro-
wave oven unattended while cooking.
Paper towels Use to cover food for reheating and absorbing fat. Use with supervi-
sion for short-term cooking only.
Parchment paper Use as a cover to prevent splattering or a wrap for steaming.
Plastic Microwave-safe only. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Should
be labeled "Microwave Safe". Some plastic containers soften when
they get hot. "Boiling bags" and tightly closed plastic bags should be
slit, pierced or vented as directed by package.
Plastic wrap Microwave-safe only. Use to cover food during cooking to retain
moisture. Do not allow plastic wrap to touch food.
Thermometers Microwave-safe only (meat and candy thermometers).
Materials to be avoided in a microwave oven
Utensils Remarks
Aluminum tray May cause deforming. Transfer food into a microwave-safe dish.
Food carton with metal
handle May cause deforming. Transfer food into a microwave-safe dish.
Metal or metal-trimmed
utensils Metal shields the food from microwave radiation. Metal trim may
cause deforming.
Metal twist ties May cause deforming and a fire in the microwave oven.
Paper bags May cause a fire in the microwave oven.
Foam plastic Foam plastic may melt or contaminate the liquid inside when
exposed to high temperature.
Wood Wood will dry out when used in the microwave oven and may split
or crack.
Wax paper Use as a cover to prevent splattering and retain moisture.