
Microwaving food is one of the easiest ways to heat things up quickly, and paper towels can make the process even easier. Whether you’re covering food to prevent splatters, steaming vegetables, or reheating leftovers, paper towels seem like a great kitchen hack. But the question is: Can Paper Towels go in the Microwave? Here’s everything you need to know to keep your microwave working properly and ensure your food comes out perfect.
Can You Microwave Paper Towels?
In general, yes, it’s safe to use paper towels in the microwave. They’re made to handle heat and can even make microwaving easier. Most paper towels are safe for the microwave, and they can help with things like covering food to stop it from spitting or absorbing excess moisture.
Whirlpool, a well-known kitchen appliance company, says that paper towels are fine to use in the microwave. In fact, they suggest using paper towels to cover foods while microwaving, which helps keep things neat and tidy. They also recommend using shorter intervals to reheat food so you can keep an eye on both the food and the paper towel to make sure they don’t get too hot.
What Paper Towels Are Safe for Microwaving?
While most paper towels can be safely microwaved, some aren’t the best option. To be sure your paper towels are safe, it’s a good idea to stick with plain white towels. Avoid paper towels that are printed with designs, made from recycled paper, or have other special features like nylon threads, as these could cause problems in the microwave.
Some recycled paper towels can contain tiny pieces of metal that can cause sparks, which could start a fire. Paper towels that have nylon or other synthetic filaments should also be avoided, as they can catch fire when heated.
If you’re unsure about the paper towels you have at home, check the packaging. Some brands might mention if their towels are microwave-safe, so it’s always good to read the label. This extra step helps you make sure you’re using the right kind of paper towels in the microwave.
Related: 6 Best Kitchen Paper Towel
What Should You Avoid When Microwaving Paper Towels?
While most paper towels are safe, there are some things you should never microwave. These include:
- Styrofoam: This material can release harmful chemicals when heated.
- Metal: This includes aluminum foil, which can cause sparks and lead to fires.
- Brown Paper Bags: These can catch fire and release harmful fumes when heated.
Always double-check what you’re putting in the microwave. Stick with plain, all-white paper towels that don’t have any extra printing or special materials.
Why Use Paper Towels to Reheat Leftovers?
Reheating leftovers in the microwave with a paper towel is a common practice because it helps keep your food from getting too messy. Paper towels are great at preventing splatters, which helps keep your microwave clean. They also help retain moisture. This is important because it helps heat your food more evenly and keeps it from drying out.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture actually recommends covering food with a paper towel when reheating it. The moisture trapped in the towel helps create steam, which makes the reheating process more effective. This steam can also destroy harmful bacteria, making sure your food is safe to eat. So, using a paper towel in the microwave isn’t just about keeping things neat – it also ensures your food is heated properly.
How Long Can You Reheat Food With Paper Towels?
One important thing to remember when using paper towels in the microwave is not to leave them in for too long. While paper towels are safe, they can catch fire if left in the microwave for extended periods. So, instead of microwaving food for long stretches, it’s better to heat food in shorter bursts — about one minute at a time. After each interval, take a quick look at both the food and the paper towel to make sure nothing is burning.
It’s also a good idea to let the paper towel cool down for a few seconds before starting another heating session. This helps prevent it from getting too dry or too hot, which can lower the risk of it catching fire.
The Two-Minute Rule for Using Paper Towels in the Microwave
To be extra cautious, use the Two-Minute Rule: always check your food and paper towel every two minutes when reheating. This ensures that everything stays safe, and you’re not leaving the paper towel in the microwave too long. If you have a microwave that doesn’t automatically stop after a set time, this rule will help you keep track of how long the paper towel has been in.
Things to Keep in Mind When Using Paper Towels in the Microwave
Here are some important things to remember before using paper towels in the microwave:
- Use plain, white paper towels: These are your safest option when microwaving. Avoid printed, recycled, or specially made paper towels that could have materials like metal or nylon.
- Don’t set the microwave for long intervals: Reheat food in one-minute bursts. This gives you a chance to check both the food and the paper towel.
- Never microwave materials like Styrofoam or metal: These can be dangerous and should always be avoided in the microwave.
- Be cautious of heat: If the paper towel gets too dry or hot, stop the microwave and let everything cool down before continuing.
Conclusion
In summary, it’s generally safe to microwave food with a paper towel, as long as you follow some simple precautions. Stick with plain, white paper towels, and avoid any that are printed, recycled, or made with nylon. Reheat food in short intervals and always check the food and towel to make sure everything is okay. With these tips in mind, you can safely use paper towels to make microwaving a cleaner, easier process.
By paying attention to what kind of paper towels you’re using and how long they’re in the microwave, you can enjoy safe and effective reheating. Whether you’re reheating leftovers or preventing messes, paper towels can be a helpful tool as long as you keep safety in mind!