Hi there! I'm Chef Anthony, and with over 20 years of experience in the culinary arts, I've seen it all – from perfectly seared scallops to kitchen mishaps that could make your hair stand on end. Speaking of kitchen mishaps, let's talk about the microwave. This magical box is a lifesaver for reheating leftovers and whipping up quick meals. However, it's not a magical portal that can handle anything you throw at it. Let's delve into what you should never, and I repeat, never put in a microwave.

1. Metals: The Ultimate No-No

Metals, in any form, are a big no-no for the microwave. This includes aluminum foil, silverware, twist ties, and even dishes with metallic rims or decorations. Microwaves work by exciting water molecules, but they reflect off metal surfaces. This reflection can cause sparks, arcing, and in extreme cases, even a fire.

Why it's dangerous: Sparks from metal in a microwave can damage your appliance, potentially starting a fire and posing a serious safety hazard.

**2. Closed Containers: A Recipe for Disaster**

Imagine this: you put a tightly sealed container of soup in the microwave, hit start, and BANG! You've got yourself a messy explosion. Liquids heat up rapidly in the microwave, and when trapped in a closed container, the steam has nowhere to escape. This buildup of pressure can cause the container to burst, creating a hot, messy disaster.

Why it's dangerous: Exploding containers can cause burns and damage your microwave. Always vent or use microwave-safe containers with lids designed for venting.

3. Eggs in Shells: Ticking Time Bombs

Eggs in their shells are another recipe for disaster in the microwave. The heat and steam generated inside the egg create intense pressure, turning your breakfast into a miniature explosive device. Even hard-boiled eggs can explode in the microwave due to pressure buildup.

Why it's dangerous: Exploding eggs can cause severe burns and make a mess that's no yolk (pun intended!). Always cook eggs outside their shells in a microwave-safe dish.

**4. Grapes, Raisins, and Other Small, Smooth-Skinned Fruits: Plasma Balls, Anyone?**

Believe it or not, putting grapes or raisins in the microwave can create a miniature light show – but not the kind you want. These fruits contain electrolytes that interact with the microwave's electromagnetic field, potentially creating sparks and even small balls of plasma.

Why it's dangerous: While the jury is still out on the exact science behind this phenomenon, it's best to err on the side of caution and avoid microwaving these fruits.

**5. Travel Mugs and Insulated Containers: Hot Spots and Meltdowns**

While it might seem convenient to reheat your coffee in a travel mug, many of these containers are not microwave-safe. The insulated layers can trap heat, causing uneven heating and potentially damaging the mug or even starting a fire.

Why it's dangerous: Uneven heating can lead to burns, while non-microwave-safe materials can melt or release harmful chemicals.

**6. Styrofoam: A Chemical Cocktail You Don't Want**

Styrofoam containers are a common sight for takeout, but they're a big no-no for the microwave. When heated, styrofoam can release harmful chemicals into your food.

Why it's dangerous: Ingesting these chemicals can be harmful to your health. Always transfer food to microwave-safe dishes before reheating.

**7. Nothing: Empty Microwaves are Lonely Microwaves**

Running your microwave without anything inside can damage it. With nothing to absorb the microwaves, they bounce around inside the appliance, potentially damaging the magnetron, the component that produces the microwaves.

Why it's dangerous: This can lead to overheating, damage to your microwave, and in extreme cases, even a fire hazard.

**8. Plastic Containers Not Labeled as Microwave-Safe: Chemical Leaching Concerns**

Not all plastics are created equal, and some can leach harmful chemicals into your food when heated in the microwave. Always look for the microwave-safe label on plastic containers before using them in the microwave.

Why it's dangerous: These chemicals can be harmful to your health. Stick to microwave-safe glass or ceramic containers for the safest option.

9. Oily Foods: Fire Hazard Alert!

While it might be tempting to reheat that crispy fried chicken in the microwave, oily foods can pose a fire hazard. The high heat can cause the oil to overheat and ignite, potentially starting a fire in your microwave.

Why it's dangerous: This can cause a grease fire in your microwave, which can be difficult to extinguish and pose a serious safety risk.

**10. Hot Peppers: A Recipe for Eye and Throat Irritation**

Microwaving hot peppers can release capsaicin, the chemical that gives them their heat, into the air. This can cause eye and throat irritation, making for an unpleasant experience.

Why it's dangerous: Inhaling capsaicin can cause respiratory...read more >>

15 things to never put in the microwavePaper bags. Paper bags can release toxins that can potentially catch fire.Take-out containers. If the container has any metal, don't put it in the microwave! ... Yogurt & butter containers. ... Eggs. ... Styrofoam. ... Grapes. ... Cookware with metal trim. ... Sauce or dip without a cover.More items...read more >>