Paper plates are mass produced in the US every year and they are popular item because of their convenience. They are a staple at picnics and parties because they are great for single use and can simply be thrown away for easy clean up. The question is…is it a good idea to put paper plates in the microwave?
Most paper plates are microwave safe, however, you should check that the specific paper plates are you using are marked as microwave safe first. Some paper plates with decorative detail have a thin layer of plastic coating and are not safe for the microwave.
How to determine if a paper plate is microwave safe
It’s easy to assume that all paper plates are microwavable, but a lot of people may be surprised to find out that not all paper plates should be used to microwave food. Paper plates are a great convenient item for picnic, barbecues or other times when using your regular plates is not possible. If you use paper plates them at home, you may consider using them to heat up leftovers, but you need to be sure that they are safe to use for this purpose.
Here are few ways you can tell if your paper plates are microwave-safe:
- Check the packaging – Most plates should be marked on their outer packaging with a label that says whether they are a microwave-safe plate. The packaging may also state that the plater are “uncoated” letting you know that they are safe to use in the microwave.
- Do a water test – Perform a simple test by placing a damp paper towel on top of the paper plate and microwave it for about 20 seconds. Open the microwave quickly and feel the plate. If the paper towel is hot, but the plate is still cool, the the plate should be safe to use in the microwave.
- Inspect the plate for any coatings – If you’re unsure, simply inspect the plate for what appears to be a glossy or waxy coating. If you have any doubt, the safest option is to not to use the plates in the microwave.
- Check with the manufacturer – A quick search of the manufacturers website should provide more information on microwave use for specific brands of paper plates.
Remember to always monitor the microwave while it’s in use and let the plates cool down before handling them, as they can become very hot. If possible, it’s always best to use microwave-safe glass plate or ceramic plates instead of paper plates, as they are less likely to overheat or catch fire.
Some paper plates may have a thin coating of plastic
In some paper plates a thin plastic film is used to provide oil and water resistance. These plates may still be marked microwave safe and safety wise they may be fine to use, but for health reasons, it may be best to ere on the side of caution an only use this type of paper plate when a microwave isn’t needed.
This is especially true if you are heating food to high temperatures. Check out this article: How Hot Does a Microwave Get?
Items that are safe for us in the microwave
When you have the option, choose microwave-safe containers for heating foods. We have created a list to help you determine what are the safest items to be used in a microwave.
Glass
You should always check the bottom of the glass container, but most glass is usually safe to use in the microwave. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to be safe.
Ceramic
Your ceramic plates, bowls and coffee are fine to heat in the microwave. One exception may be any coffee cups with a design using any type of metallic paint which will quickly spark in the microwave. With most household dishes, they should be clearly labeled on the bottom indicating whether they are microwave-safe
Paper towels
A plain paper towel is microwave safe and in fact, we often use them to cover food so that when your oily food pops under the heat, it does not get on the sides of your microwave.
Plastic Plates
Many plastic plates are also microwave safe, but because they can be made of many different materials, it’s best to check the labeling on the bottom of the dish. You should also be aware of any toxic chemicals in plastic containers, especially older ones. As a rule of thumb, it’s to only use plastic when you have a food that needs to be heated for short periods of time, around 1-2 minutes.
Uncoated paper plates
Paper plates marked “uncoated” on the outer packaging is the best option if you know that you will be using them in the microwave regularly.
Items that should not go in the microwave
There are items that are a safety hazard if placed in the microwave. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the list below to avoid any accidents and especially causing your microwave to catch fire.
Items that should never go in the microwave:
Aluminum foil
When microwave, foil will cause sparks and is definitely a fire hazard. If you have ever made this mistake, you undoubtedly know what we are talking about.
Styrofoam
When heated, styrofoam will melt very quickly and release harmful toxins into your food.
Plastic wrap
Any type of plastic will melt in the microwave in a very short time and melt on your food making it inedible. While you may cover foods with plastic wrap, be sure to remove it before heating.
Take-out food containers
Many take-out containers made of styrofoam or have some type of coating to make them more water resistant. However, newer paper takeout boxes are now uncoated and may be safe for use in the microwave.
Plastic-coated paper plates
These types of plates may still be marked microwave safe, but it is best to stick with a plain white paper plate when heating food is required.
Plastic containers
High heat from the microwave can release harmful chemicals into your food or even melt the container at higher temperatures.
Anything metal or stainless steel
Heating any type of metal or stainless steel will create the same reaction as microwaving aluminum foil and can cause a fire.
If you do decide to microwave paper plates, make sure they are labeled as microwave-safe on the packaging. It’s also best to use them for short durations, such as reheating leftovers for a minute or two. Always use glass or ceramic dishes to heat in the microwave when you have the option.