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Quick Answer: It’s generally not a good idea to put stainless steel in the microwave. There are some caveats, but for the most part, it’s safest to assume that you shouldn’t put any type of stainless steel in the microwave. We’re going to explain exactly why below.
First, let’s learn a bit more about stainless steel…
What Is Stainless Steel?
We hear about stainless steel all the time.Or at least, we hear that stainless steel is all around us.The rims on your car tires might be stainless steel.Check your pots and pans and you may find that they’re stainless steel, too.
Other common places stainless steel can be found are:
- Cutlery
- Medical equipment
- Zippers
- Prescription glasses
- Coffee thermoses
- Cooking tools
Stainless steelis a steel alloy, or a mix of metals, that contains chromium and other types of metals in its makeup.What makes it different from regular steel is that it’s resistant to rust thanks to the chromium.This is why it’s favored in medical equipment and cookware.
So why shouldn’t you microwave stainless steel if you can cook with it?One big reason lies in its shape.
Many metal objects aren’t safe to put in the microwave because of their shapes and proximity to the walls and ceiling of the microwave.When two pieces of metal are too close together, sparks can happen because the metal reflects and acts as an amplifier of the microwaves.
This is why you shouldn’t put a fork in the microwave—the metal tines are too close together and will likely create sparks.There’s also metal in the microwave itself, which is a good reason not to let other metal objects get too close to the inner walls.
Related Article: Can You Microwave Saran Wrap? (Your Guide for Safe Reheating)
When it comes to stainless steel objects, shape is definitely part of the equation.But many manufacturers of products like stainless steel coffee mugs specifically advise against putting them in the microwave.
However, it’s absolutely safe to cook, bake and reheat in stainless steel cookware in the oven and on the stove.
For more on microwaves, we have compiled a list of the best microwave toaster oven combo.
Different Types of Stainless Steel Cookware
Stainless steel is a popular material for cookware.Not only does it resist rust and tarnishing, it’s also nonreactive.
Here are some super common stainless steel tools in the kitchen:
- Saute pans
- Soup and sauce pots
- Baking sheets
- Bread tins
- Cake pans
- Ladles and slotted spoons
These are all meant for cooking and baking, and not for use in the microwave.In general, it’s a good idea to look at stainless steel as an alternative cooking method to microwaving.
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How Do You Know If Stainless Steel Is Microwave Safe or Not?
If a stainless steel item were microwavable, you would know by checking the product or the box it was purchased in. You would see written verification either on the packaging or on the stainless steel that mentions the microwavable status.
That’s the best way to tell, but you also want to make sure that your microwave is capable of heating something made with stainless steel or any other type of metal. Check the owner’s manual for confirmation.
Lastly, you can contact the stainless steel manufacturer to ask directly. This is the next best thing to seeing a written statement on the product.
Labels on Stainless Steel to Be Aware Of
Any item that can be placed in the microwave, whether it’s a glass bowl or a ceramic mug, may have a label on the bottom that says “microwave safe.” Any time you’re unsure about a product, turn it over and look for this label. You may also see one that mentions that the item is not microwave-safe.
Some things are more likely than others to have the labels. Lots of plates, bowls and cups have the stamps, but other objects may not. It’s always good practice to check.
Further Reading: Can You Microwave Starbucks Cups? (What You Need to Know)
Bonus Safety Tips
If you’re using a microwave-safe metal product, here are a few tips that will help to ensure safe heating:
- Don’t let any metal edges get close to the walls of the microwave.Usually, you want a good couple of inches or more of distance.Read up about the individual type of metal first.
- Make sure the shape is suitable for microwaving.If the object says that it’s microwavable, unless it’s aluminum foil, chances are good that you don’t need to worry about this.
- Keep cutlery out of the microwave.
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
