Can You Put A Metal Spoon In The Microwave?
Most people have heard that metal and microwaves don't mix, and for good reason. While it’s not always as dangerous as it sounds, putting a metal spoon in the microwave can still cause problems.
Understanding how microwaves react to metal helps you avoid damage, sparks (or worse), and keeps your appliance and food safe.
Why metal is a problem
Microwaves work by bouncing electromagnetic waves around to heat food. Metal reflects those waves instead of absorbing them, causing sparks or "arcing."
If the metal is thin or has sharp edges, it can ignite or damage the microwave's interior. The danger isn’t just the metal, it’s how the waves react to it inside that confined space.
When it's sometimes safe
A metal spoon resting in a cup of liquid is usually safe because the liquid absorbs most of the energy. However, the spoon shouldn't touch the microwave walls, and it must be fully submerged.
If used carefully, this setup won’t spark, but it’s still not recommended. The risk comes from small mistakes that can cause big damage.
Common risks
Leaving a metal spoon in the microwave without enough liquid nearby can cause sparking or scorch marks. The sparks can burn the turntable or even damage the magnetron, the part that makes the microwave work.
Even small incidents can shorten the appliance's lifespan. It’s safer to remove metal objects before reheating anything, just in case.
Better alternatives
If you need to reheat something with a spoon in it, simply remove the utensil first. Use microwave-safe glass or ceramic instead. For stirring, switch to a wooden or silicone spoon after heating.
These materials handle heat well and won't reflect microwaves. A small habit change like this protects your appliance and your meal.