Can metal go in the microwave?

Written by Marijn

Edited on

27 January 2025

·

13:10

Can metal go in the microwave?

A microwave heats up your meal with electromagnetic waves. These waves create an electric field that's constantly moving. This creates friction between molecules and voilà, you have heat. When you place a metal fork in the microwave, it creates sparks. This results in a fire hazard. In this article, you can read which metal objects you can and can't use in the microwave.

Metai in the microwave

Do not heat forks

When you heat your leftover macaroni with a spoon, there won't be a flame in your microwave. A spoon is big and thick enough to absorb the heat. A fork, on the other hand, collects the electric current at the ends due to its long and pointed shape. This creates sparks and ultimately forms a fire hazard. Stick to spoons, but only when really necessary.

View all microwaves
Use metal oven racks

Metal oven racks aren't a problem

What about metal oven racks and baking trays for combi microwaves? These objects have a type of coating that can handle heat. This way, you can heat your food without sparks and your microwave catching fire.

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Article by Marijn

Microwave Expert.

Marijn