How To: Practice microwave safety

Microwave ovens are an essential part of modern life. It is important to know how to use them safely.

Step 1: Follow the manufacturer's instructions
Follow the manufacturer's instruction manual for operating procedures and safety precautions for your oven model.

Never operate the oven if the door does not close properly, or if the door, latch, hinge, or sealing surfaces have been damaged.

Step 2: Use the microwave oven appropriately
Use the microwave only for defrosting, heating, and cooking food. Other uses may lead to a fire.

Step 3: Use microwave-safe containers
Use microwave-safe containers including heat-safe glass, glass-ceramic, china, pottery without metal, and plastic containers labeled "Microwave-safe." Use paper for short heating periods.

Microwave energy passes through these containers and heats the food inside. But containers may still become hot if the food gives off a lot of heat.

Step 4: Avoid containers with metal
Never use metal, including pottery or glass with metallic glaze, in the oven.

Step 5: Do not overheat liquids
Do not overheat liquids such as water, coffee or tea in the oven. They may boil over after you remove them.

Stir liquids before and halfway through heating. Leave the container in the oven for a short while before removing it.

Step 6: Exercise caution with baby foods
Heat baby food in a dish, not in the jar. When heating a bottle, remove the nipple to avoid trapping steam. After heating, shake the bottle to achieve a uniform temperature.

Fact: In 1947, microwave ovens were the size of refrigerators and cost between $2,000 and $3,000.