Is your microwave ruined if you put metal in it?

Author: Rudolph Cartwright  |  Last update: Monday, January 5, 2026

Serious fires or injuries as a result of leaving metal in a microwave oven aren't very common. There is a good possibility, though, that you could damage the microwave oven itself, requiring you to repair or replace it. So, as a general rule, it's best not to put metal objects in a microwave oven.

Is it safe to use a microwave with metal showing?

You can, actually. Metal reflects microwave and is generally harmless. Due to this, if you have a cylinder-shaped container with an open top made of metal, you'll see no microwave hit your food on the sides or under the container.

What will happen if metal is kept in the microwave?

If a smooth metal bowl is used, the only observation will be that the food doesn't warm up. The microwaves will not penetrate the metal; they can, however, induce an electric current in the bowl which is likely to have no consequence unless the metal has jagged edges or points.

What happens if I accidentally put a metal bowl in the microwave?

Its still not safe because metal reflects microwaves damaging the magnetron over time. The magnetron also generates eddy currents in metal causing oxidations and metal leaks into food.

Is it okay to put metal on top of a microwave?

Metal will spark in a microwave oven and may even cause a fire or explosion.

Why can't you put metal in a microwave? - Aaron Slepkov

What happens if I accidentally put foil in the microwave?

Aluminum foil is thin, and when food wrapped in foil starts to heat up, water turns into steam, releasing energy. Because the food is covered with foil, this energy has no outlet. This makes the foil heat up fairly quickly at the risk of catching fire.

Is a damaged microwave safe to use?

A damaged microwave oven may present a risk of microwave energy leaks. Contact your microwave's manufacturer for assistance if your microwave oven has damage to its door hinges, latches, or seals, or if the door does not open or close properly.

Is my microwave ruined after metal?

Serious fires or injuries as a result of leaving metal in a microwave oven aren't very common. There is a good possibility, though, that you could damage the microwave oven itself, requiring you to repair or replace it. So, as a general rule, it's best not to put metal objects in a microwave oven.

Why should you never put metal in a microwave?

This absorption makes the molecules oscillate back and forth, creating heat and cooking the food from the inside out, the outside in, or uniformly, depending on where the water lies. A metal object placed inside the oven deflects these waves away from the food, Ross explains.

What happens if you put a metal tin in the microwave?

Metal cookware should not be used in a microwave. Metal will not allow microwaves to penetrate the food, so any food behind the metal will not be cooked. The metal could also cause arcing inside the oven.

Can I eat food that was microwaved with metal?

Yes. You can put metal in a microwave so long as the metal doesn't have sharp points that are close to one another that can create an arc. Think the tines of a fork, a serrated knife, or crumpled foil. Thicker smoother pieces of metal are generally safe inside a microwave.

Is it safe to use a dented microwave?

Is it safe to use a dented microwave? Physical damage is not nearly as dangerous as any electrical problems. As long as the door and interlocking mechanism still work, you are safe. The interlocking mechanism turns the microwave off when you open the door.

Can you put metal in the microwave reddit?

Convection microwave ovens, with the convection turned on, can usually be used to cook in metal with foil without issue.

How do you know if your microwave is damaged?

When to replace the microwave? Common signs that your microwave needs changing
  • Making funny noises.
  • Smells like electrical burning.
  • Isn't cooking food in the usual time or cooking unevenly.
  • Needs help to work properly – such as a spoon to hold the door closed.
  • Keypad has stopped working.

How do you know when a microwave is unsafe?

Smoke, sparks, and burning odor are the primary signs that signal the last days of a microwave. Other problems like unexplained loud noise, prolonged or faster cooking, loose door hinge, and malfunctioning keypad are signs to invest in a new microwave.

Can I put stainless steel in the microwave?

Most stainless steel containers are made of 304 grade (18/8 stainless), and their corners are specially designed so that they do not cause problems when used in a microwave oven. The safe use of these products is now guaranteed by many research organizations.

What happens if metal is exposed to microwave?

Things that are smooth and thick are unlikely to arc, like a spoon or Anyday's rounded rim on the lid. Microwaves also do not penetrate metal deeply — only a very, very small depth will heat up, and so thick metal will heat up slowly, and therefore will not burn or spark.

Can you put metal on top of a microwave?

Metal surfaces reflect microwaves, which increases the heat inside the appliance and could lead to a fire.

Why do microwaves spark with metal?

Now, about that sparking metal. When microwaves interact with a metallic material, the electrons on the material's surface get sloshed around, Slepkov explained. This doesn't cause any problems if the metal is smooth all over.

What happens if you accidentally put aluminum foil in the microwave?

Aluminum foil can lead to sparking inside a microwave when used incorrectly. These sparks may ignite materials around the tinfoil, which could result in a fire.

What are 3 unsafe items that you Cannot put in microwave?

8 Things That Never Belong In Your Microwave
  • Aluminum Foil. Metal reflects microwaves, which can cause fires and ruin your appliance. ...
  • Any Kind of Metal. It's worth repeating: Metal should never be inside your microwave. ...
  • Raw Spicy Peppers. ...
  • Single-Use Plastic. ...
  • Styrofoam. ...
  • Uncovered Sauces. ...
  • Nothing. ...
  • Plain Water.

When should you throw away your microwave?

How long do microwaves usually last? On average, microwaves last 7-8 years. That's a lot of microwaves to go through in a lifetime, which is why finding a great method for disposal is helpful.

What usually fails on a microwave?

Understanding the most common parts that can break in a microwave, such as the magnetron, door switches, turntable, control panel, and high voltage components, can help users identify issues early and seek professional repairs or replacements.

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