When it comes to cooking, what do you think of? Do you think of fast and convenient? Or do you think of clean and hygienic as well? If the former answers rule your mind, then you’re probably a fan of microwave ovens. A microwave is that appliance that is indispensable in your home. It’s used for convenience when it comes to quick and easy meal preparation, as well as cleaning frozen or leftover food easily. Today, we are going to talk about one more benefit of using the microwave which a lot of people don’t even consider – the use of silicone in microwaves.
Can Silicone Go In The Microwave?
Yes, it is safe to put silicone in the microwave. Silicone is a man-made polymer, which means it is made out of several different materials that are mixed together. It can withstand temperatures up to 428°F (220°C), but there are some exceptions: avoid using silicone bakeware and cookware in temperatures over 446°F (230°C).
Why Can Silicone Go In The Microwave?
1. It is heat resistant
Silicone is a man-made polymer, which means it is made out of several different materials that are mixed together. It can withstand temperatures up to 428°F (220°C), but there are some exceptions: avoid using silicone bakeware and cookware in temperatures over 446°F (230°C).
2. It is non-toxic
Silicone is considered to be a non-toxic material, which makes it perfectly safe for use in microwaves.
3. It has a low thermal conductivity
Due to its low thermal conductivity, silicone does not easily transfer heat from one place to another. This means that food cooked in silicone containers will not overcook or burn as quickly as those cooked in other materials.
4. It is easy to clean
Silicone containers and utensils are also easy to clean and dishwasher safe, making them even more convenient for everyday use.
5. It is durable
Finally, silicone is a very durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. This means that it will last much longer than other materials, such as plastic or metal.
Why Is Silicone Added In Microwaves?
1. Silicone helps to avoid electrical shock:
By adding silicone in microwaves, it creates a protective layer that reduces the chances of electrical shocks. This is especially important for people who work with microwaves on a daily basis, as they may be more susceptible to electric shocks.
2. Silicone insulates heat:
Microwave ovens generate high temperatures and adding silicone helps to insulate the heat. This allows the microwaves to be used more efficiently and with greater safety, making it easier to cook food evenly without burning it.
3. Silicone is a great sealant:
When added in microwaves, silicone acts as a sealant that prevents any liquids or particles from entering into the appliance. This ensures that food is cooked safely and efficiently, without any kind of contamination.
4. Silicone helps to avoid rust:
Rust is a major problem for metal surfaces and appliances. However, when silicone is added to metal surfaces in microwaves, it acts as a barrier against rusting, allowing the appliance to last longer.
5. Silicone is an effective waterproofing agent:
Microwave are often exposed to moisture and adding silicone can help reduce the chances of water damage. This is important for ensuring that the internal components of the appliance remain safe and in good condition.
6. Silicone prevents corrosion:
Corrosion can be a major problem for metal appliances and adding silicone can help to reduce the chances of corrosion. This is important for ensuring that the appliance remains in good condition for a longer period of time.
7. Silicone improves heat conduction:
By adding silicone in microwaves, it helps to improve the overall thermal conductivity of the appliance. This is important for improving the efficiency of the appliance and ensuring that food is cooked evenly.
8. Silicone helps to reduce noise:
Microwave ovens generate a lot of noise when they are in use and adding silicone can help to reduce this. This is important for improving the overall user experience, as it ensures that the appliance does not cause too much disruption.
9. Silicone improves energy efficiency:
By improving the thermal conductivity of the appliance, adding silicone can help to reduce the amount of energy that is required for cooking food. This helps to improve the overall energy efficiency of the appliance and reduce costs over time.
How To Make A Silicone Oven Mat
- Start by measuring your oven. Measure the length and width of both the interior and exterior to determine the size of your mat. This will help you create a mat that fits perfectly in your oven.
- Choose a mold for your silicone oven mat. You can use any type of container or box as long as it is sturdy and large enough to accommodate the size of your mat. The sides should be at least one inch in height to ensure that the silicone is evenly distributed and won’t leak.
- Prepare your mold by lightly greasing it with cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray. This will make it easier to remove the finished mat once it has been set.
- Measure out the amount of silicone you will need for your mat and mix it with a curing agent according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can use either liquid or solid silicone, depending on what type you have purchased.
- Pour the silicone mixture into your prepared mold and spread it out evenly using a spatula or a spoon. Make sure that there are no air bubbles or holes in the surface of the mixture, as these will cause irregularities on your mat once it has been set.
- Place the mold in a warm oven and bake at 150°F (65°C) for 40 minutes or until the silicone is completely cured.
- Once your silicone oven mat has cooled, remove it from the mold and enjoy! Your new silicone oven mat should be durable, heat-resistant, and non-stick. It is now ready to use in your kitchen. Enjoy baking with ease!
- To help keep your silicone oven mat in top condition, make sure to regularly clean it with hot soapy water. This will prevent any grease or dirt building up which can cause the mat to lose its non-stick qualities over time.
Benefits Of Silicone In Microwaves
- Silicone is a safe material to use in microwaves, as it has a high melting point and does not react with other materials. This means food won’t stick to the surface when heated and will cook evenly. Additionally, silicone is resistant to extreme temperatures, meaning it can withstand very hot or cold temperatures without breaking down.
- Silicone is also non-toxic, so using silicone containers and utensils in microwaves won’t contaminate your food. This makes it an ideal choice for those who are health conscious and want to avoid chemicals in their cooking. Additionally, silicone is easy to clean, as its surface doesn’t absorb the odors or taste of the food cooked.
- Another great benefit of silicone in microwaves is that it does not emit any hazardous fumes or particles when heated, unlike other materials such as plastic. This means that you can use silicone containers and utensils with peace of mind knowing that your food won’t be contaminated by these dangerous chemicals.
- Silicone is also a great material for microwaves because it is lightweight and flexible, making it easy to store and use. Plus, its non-slip surface makes it less likely to cause spills or accidents when using the microwave.
Disadvantages Of Silicone In Microwaves
- Silicone is not heat resistant and can melt when exposed to high temperatures. This means that if you put silicone in the microwave, it will go through a chemical reaction, which could produce smoke or toxic fumes.
- Silicone containers are also not suitable for long-term use in microwaves as they do not have the same level of durability as other materials. When used in the microwave, silicone can become brittle over time and may even crack or break when exposed to high heat.
- Silicone containers also cannot be used for certain types of food, such as fatty foods or those with high levels of sugar. This is because these substances can cause a reaction with the silicone, which could damage the container or even cause it to melt
- Finally, silicone containers cannot withstand extreme temperatures and can become warped when exposed to heat for too long. This means that they are not suitable for use in microwaves with higher wattage settings as the heat may be too much for the container to handle.
Bottom Line
When it comes to cooking, you should always consider convenience, cleanliness, and safety. Silicone is a perfect material for use in microwave ovens as it’s non-reactive, safe for use, non-toxic, and an excellent insulator.
