How To Know If A Plate Is Microwave Safe: Quick Tips

Using a microwave requires using the proper tools. Like any device, some items are compatible with microwave use, while some may be hazardous. In this article, we will check how to know if a plate is microwave safe with some quick tips. Are you ready to test it out? Let's start!

Quick Tips To Find Out If A Plate Is Microwave Safe

Before you hurriedly slip in that meal for a quick microwave heating, it's important to check the equipment you're using for it. These are some tips on how to know if a plate is microwave safe:

Option 1 - Check the label.

• Some dishes have an explicit "microwave safe" or "microwave friendly" label marked on the bottom. And some may have warning labels like, "Not for use in microwaves."
• Some dishes are marked with wavy horizontal lines to indicate they are ok for microwave use. If you're fortunate enough to have dinnerware labeled this way, this first step should be enough.

Option 2 - Do a water test on your microwave using water

• Step 1 - Prepare a microwave-safe cup or a glass bowl.
• Step 2 - Fill it with one cup of water.
• Step 3 - Place the cup of water on the dish or inside the bowl that you want to test. For this to work, you should not pour water into the dish you are testing.
• Step 4 - Set your microwave to 'high.' The settings may vary for some models, so refer to your microwave manual.
• Step 5 - Set your microwave to heat the cup of water and the dish for one minute.
• Step 6 - Evaluate the results:
  • If the dish you are testing is warm or hot after the experiment, it is NOT microwave-safe.
  • If the dish you are testing is cool while the cup of water is hot, it is microwave-safe.

Note: The area where your hot cup of water is situated on the dish should feel slightly warm, but the rest of the plate should feel cool.

• Step 7 - Mark the plate or container based on the results for future use.

Reminders On Microwave Safe Equipment

If we want to be sure how to know if a plate is microwave safe, there are some general reminders to consider:

1. Ceramic, china, and glass are generally alright to be used in the microwave, with a few exceptions:
   • it is stated otherwise
   • it contains metallic decor
2. Do not use items with print or ink in a microwave to avoid leaching colored dye.
3. You can use parchment paper, paper towels, and white paper plates in a microwave.
4. When using plastics in a microwave, make sure it is clearly labeled "microwave safe."
5. If you need to use plastic wrap in your microwave, ensure it doesn't touch your food.
6. Do not use a brown paper bag in a microwave.
7. Invest in microwave-safe brands for your cookware.

Conclusion

The device works with its compatible equipment to function well, and that is why it is crucial to answer how to know if a plate is microwave safe. This knowledge goes beyond keeping your food and dinnerware safe. It also means keeping yourself safe.