Do you know that…
The first commercial microwave was 165 cm high and weighed 338 kg! It's hard to imagine such a microwave standing on the fridge in our kitchen.
A microwave oven is an indispensable element of kitchen equipment, but many of us wonder what we can heat in it. Paper trays ? Or maybe glass and ceramic tableware? We dispel all doubts. 
We live faster and faster and we don't want to waste unnecessary time standing over the stove, which is why microwaves are so popular - just a few minutes is enough to heat up a ready dish.
What can we heat in a microwave oven?
You may be surprised to learn how many items can be safely heated in a microwave. Although you should check labels or manuals to be sure, the following materials can usually be used in a microwave oven.
- 1. Paper and paper trays - provided it is not decorated with anything or waxed.
- 2. Glass and ceramics- Glass and ceramic cookware are usually safe for use in the microwave, but there are exceptions, such as crystal and some handmade ceramics. When it comes to glass or ceramic plates, bowls, cups, mugs, mixing bowls or baking dishes, you should be clean as long as there is no metallic paint or inlays.
- 3. Plastic - Most plastic containers are safe to use in the microwave, but as with paper trays, there are some exceptions. Make sure that the manufacturer allows you to microwave the containers, do not use disposable plastics such as those used for cottage cheese and other food products.
- 4. Paper towels - These can be used to cover food to prevent it from splashing while heating, but do not use recycled paper towels, printed paper towels, paper lids and brown paper bags as they pose a potential safety hazard.
What not to put in the microwave?
You already know that food on paper trays can be safely heated in the microwave, but there are also materials that should absolutely not be placed there.
- 1. Metal objects - Metal surfaces reflect microwaves, which increases the heat inside the appliance and may cause a fire. The same is true for aluminum foil, if the foil is crumpled it can cause electrical sparks to fly, resulting in damage to the stove.
- 2. Styrofoam - Some types of Styrofoam are safe to use in a microwave oven, but must be properly labeled. If you don't see a microwave-safe label or aren't sure what type of Styrofoam you're using, it's best to keep it away from the microwave.
- 3. Cardboard - If you can heat paper trays, why shouldn't you heat cardboard or cardboard packaging? Cardboard may contain adhesives, waxes and other materials that may pose a safety risk to you and your family.
3. Cardboard - If you can heat paper trays , why shouldn't you heat cardboard or cardboard packaging? Cardboard may contain adhesives, waxes and other materials that may pose a threat to the safety of you and your family.
Before you decide to heat a meal in a microwave, it is worth reading the label on the back or bottom of the container or paper tray . However, if you can't tell what the container is made of, skip it. This will ensure that your microwave oven remains in good condition for many years.
Want to learn more about eco-friendly alternatives? click here