How to Tell If Dishes are Microwave-Safe

Determine if dishes are microwave-safe by testing them.

Due to the popularity of microwave ovens, many manufacturers create microwave-safe dishes and utensils that you can safely use in a microwave oven. These dishes have a design that enables them to withstand microwave heating and do not contain metals of any kind that might damage a microwave oven. While most dishes have a clear label on them indicating their microwave-safe status, some dishes may not have this labeling. In the absence of a label, you can tell if dishes are microwave-safe by testing them.

Things You'll Need

• Microwave-safe measuring cup (8 oz.)

Instructions

1. Fill the measuring cup to the top with water and place it in a back corner of the microwave oven.

2. Place the dish in the center of the microwave oven, making sure it does not touch the measuring cup.

3. Set the microwave to high and microwave the dish and the water in the measuring cup for one minute.

4. Check the dish after the minute elapses. If the dish is cool, then the dish is microwave-safe. If the dish is warm, it is not microwave-safe. The warmth indicates some kind of metal in the dish itself or in the glaze covering the dish.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use a dish that is not safe for microwave cooking in a microwave. The dish may crack and break during the cooking process or you may damage your microwave oven.

References

• USDA: Microwave Ovens and Food Safety