Check the package when you buy the cover to ensure that the plastic is microwave-safe. Choose a cover that has several vents so steam doesn’t build up.
Always check the bottom of your dish set, to tell if it’s microwave safe. The words will be printed on the dish or you’ll see a square with wavy horizontal lines in the center.
Consider using paper towels if you’re reheating sausages or bacon, for instance. If you don’t have paper towels, you could use microwave-safe paper plates or napkins.
To minimize your risk, try not to use plastic or wax if you’ll be microwaving the food for a long time. Parchment paper is also safe to use if it doesn’t come into contact with the food.
Don’t pile all of the food in the center of the plate or the microwave will heat the edges of the food faster than the middle.
If your dish of food is spilling over the sides, divide the food between 2 plates and reheat them separately.
It’s important to lift the cover away from you so hot steam doesn’t get right in your face.
If you’re reheating a leftover meal, plan on microwaving the food for a total of 1 to 2 minutes.
If you’ve cooked food in the microwave, follow any standing times before you check the temperature. For example, if you cooked an eggy casserole, let it sit for 3 minutes and check the temperature to ensure it’s reached 160 °F (71 °C).
Newspaper and printed bags can also release toxic fumes from the ink and glue that’s on them.
If you have a metallic pan of takeout or a takeout container with metal handles, transfer the food to a glass or ceramic before heating the food.
Styrofoam or foam-insulated containers Yogurt tubs Margarine or whipped topping containers Takeout trays Heavily-scratched reusable containers
