What To Know
- Microwaves are a convenient and efficient way to heat food, but many people are unsure about whether or not it’s safe to put metal in them.
- Magnetron microwaves use a magnetron to generate microwaves, while inverter microwaves use a different technology to generate microwaves.
- Use small pieces of metal, keep metal away from the edges of the microwave, don’t use metal to cover food completely, and be careful when removing metal from the microwave.
Microwaves are a convenient and efficient way to heat food, but many people are unsure about whether or not it’s safe to put metal in them. The answer to this question depends on the type of microwave you have.
Types of Microwaves
There are two main types of microwaves:
- Magnetron microwaves: These are the most common type of microwave and use a magnetron to generate microwaves. Magnetron microwaves cannot be used with metal because it can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
- Inverter microwaves: These are newer and more expensive than magnetron microwaves, but they offer several advantages, including the ability to use metal. Inverter microwaves use a different technology to generate microwaves, which allows them to control the power more precisely. This makes them safer to use with metal.
What Metals Can You Put in an Inverter Microwave?
Not all metals are safe to put in an inverter microwave. The following metals are generally considered safe:
- Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil can be used to cover food or to create a makeshift cooking dish.
- Stainless steel: Stainless steel cookware and utensils are safe to use in an inverter microwave.
- Copper: Copper cookware and utensils can be used in an inverter microwave, but they may discolor over time.
What Metals Should You Not Put in an Inverter Microwave?
The following metals should not be put in an inverter microwave:
- Cast iron: Cast iron cookware can rust and damage the microwave.
- Iron: Iron cookware can rust and damage the microwave.
- Lead: Lead is a toxic metal that can leach into food.
- Mercury: Mercury is a toxic metal that can leach into food.
Tips for Using Metal in an Inverter Microwave
- Use small pieces of metal: Large pieces of metal can reflect microwaves and cause sparks.
- Keep metal away from the edges of the microwave: Microwaves are strongest at the edges, so it’s important to keep metal away from these areas.
- Don’t use metal to cover food completely: Microwaves need to be able to penetrate food in order to heat it evenly. If you cover food completely with metal, it will not heat properly.
- Be careful when removing metal from the microwave: Metal can be hot after being microwaved, so be careful not to burn yourself.
Takeaways: Expand Your Microwave Horizons
By following these tips, you can safely use metal in an inverter microwave to heat food and cook meals. Inverter microwaves offer a number of advantages over magnetron microwaves, including the ability to use metal. This makes them a more versatile and convenient option for cooking.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I put metal in a regular microwave?
A: No, you should not put metal in a regular microwave. It can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
Q: What is the difference between a magnetron microwave and an inverter microwave?
A: Magnetron microwaves use a magnetron to generate microwaves, while inverter microwaves use a different technology to generate microwaves. Inverter microwaves offer several advantages, including the ability to use metal.
Q: What metals are safe to put in an inverter microwave?
A: Aluminum foil, stainless steel, and copper are generally considered safe to put in an inverter microwave.
Q: What metals should I not put in an inverter microwave?
A: Cast iron, iron, lead, and mercury should not be put in an inverter microwave.
Q: How can I safely use metal in an inverter microwave?
A: Use small pieces of metal, keep metal away from the edges of the microwave, don’t use metal to cover food completely, and be careful when removing metal from the microwave.
