Table of Contents
Can you microwave Tupperware? It’s a common question with a not-so-simple answer. While some types of Tupperware can be used in the microwave, others should never see the inside of one.
In this blog, you and I will explore which kinds of Tupperware are safe to use in the microwave and how to best care for your dishes. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this post will help you keep your Tupperware in tip-top shape.
What Is Tupperware And What Its Benefits?
Tupperware is a brand of plastic food storage containers, created by Earl Tupper in 1946. The lids have a seal that prevents air and moisture from entering, keeping food fresh for longer. Tupperware is also freezer- and dishwasher-safe.
While the containers are made of plastic, they don’t contain any harmful chemicals like BPA. This makes them a safer option than other types of plastic containers.
Tupperware is also microwave-safe, which means it won’t release any harmful chemicals into your food when heated.
Can You Microwave Plastic Tupperware?
Now that we know what Tupperware is and its benefits, let’s answer the question: can you microwave Tupperware? The answer may surprise you. Yes, while it is technically safe to microwave, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- First, only use containers that are labeled “microwave-safe.”
- Second, avoid heating plastics that are not intended for food use, as they may release harmful chemicals into your food.
- And third, never put plastic containers in the microwave without food or liquid inside, as this can cause the container to melt or catch fire.
If you follow these simple guidelines, you can safely enjoy your favorite foods out of plastic Tupperware.

Can You Microwave Tupperware?
Is Tupperware Microwave Safe?
We have answered the question – “can you microwave Tupperware?”, let’s talk more about how to best care for your dishes.
As we mentioned before, microwaving Tupperware can cause it to warp or melt. To avoid this, only heat food in Tupperware for short periods of time and allow it to cool before removing it from the microwave.
It’s also important to clean your Tupperware regularly. Be sure to wash it by hand or in the dishwasher, using a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as these can damage the plastic.
Are All Tupperware Products Microwave Safe?
The fact is that not all Tupperware products are microwave safe. If you are ever unsure whether or not something is microwave-safe, check the bottom of the container for a symbol. If there isn’t one, it’s best to play it safe and not put it in the microwave.
When in doubt, it’s better to not microwave your Tupperware. There are plenty of other ways to heat up food, like using the stove or oven.
>> You can verify the safety of microwaving food in Tupperware plastic containers through this video here with the provided information from the U.S. FDA (Food And Drug Administration):
Things To Know Before Microwaving Tupperware Containers
Shall we discuss some things to keep in mind before microwaving your food?
- First of all, not all Tupperware is created equal. Some types of plastic are more heat-resistant than others. For example, polypropylene plastic is safe to use in the microwave, but polystyrene is not.
- When microwaving Tupperware, always check the bottom of the container for a symbol. If you see a microwave-safe symbol, it’s safe to use in the microwave. If you don’t see a microwave-safe symbol, err on the side of caution and don’t use it in the microwave.
- Another thing to keep in mind is that microwaving Tupperware can cause it to warp or melt. This is more likely to happen with thinner plastics. To avoid this, only heat food in Tupperware for short periods of time and allow it to cool before removing it from the microwave.
To sum up, when microwaving Tupperware, always:
- Check the bottom of the container for a symbol
- Only heat food in Tupperware for short periods of time
- Allow it to cool before removing it from the microwave
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers to clean
How To Microwave Tupperware Safely And Effectively?
Though it may be tempting to just nuke your food and be done with it, there are a few things you should keep in mind when microwaving Tupperware.
- First, always make sure the Tupperware is labeled “microwave-safe”. If it’s not, there’s a chance it could melt or leach chemicals into your food.
- Second, avoid using plastic wrap or foil to cover your Tupperware. These can cause sparks that could start a fire.
- Third, don’t microwave Tupperware that has been previously used for the storage of chemicals. Even if it’s been washed, there could still be a residue that could be harmful.
- Finally, never put metal in the microwave, as this can also cause sparks and fires.
By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy your food without worry.
How Long Can You Microwave Tupperware?
The answer to this question depends on the type of Tupperware you’re using, but typically, this period is around 2 minutes.
For example, if you’re using polypropylene plastic, it’s safe to microwave for short periods of time. However, if you’re using polystyrene, it’s best to avoid microwaving altogether.
Some Of The Most Common Mistakes When Microwaving Tupperware
Provided that we have gone over some of the basics, let’s talk about some of the most common mistakes people make when microwaving Tupperware.
- One of the most common mistakes people make when using the microwave is not allowing enough time for the food to cook. This often results in food that is either overcooked or unevenly cooked, which can be very frustrating.
- Another common mistake is not properly covering the food. This can lead to splatters and messes, as well as uneven cooking.
- Finally, people often forget to use a microwave-safe container. This can lead to serious problems, such as melted plastic or even fires.

Can You Microwave Tupperware?
What Are The Advantages Of Microwaving Tupperware?
One of the biggest advantages of microwaving Tupperware is that it’s a quick and easy way to heat up food. This is especially convenient for busy people who don’t have a lot of time to cook.
Another advantage of microwaving Tupperware is that it’s generally very safe. As long as you follow the proper guidelines, there’s little risk of anything going wrong.
Finally, microwaving Tupperware is often more energy-efficient than other methods of cooking, such as stovetop cooking. This can be a great way to save money on your energy bill.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Microwaving Tupperware
A significant drawback to microwaving Tupperware is that it can cause the plastic to warp or melt. This is more likely to happen with thinner plastics.
One more disadvantage of microwaving Tupperware is that without proper coverage, food is more likely to splatter and create a mess.
Last but not least, microwaving Tupperware can sometimes result in uneven cooking. This is often due to people not allowing enough time for the food to cook or not properly covering the food.
How To Clean Tupperware?
Tupperware is generally very easy to clean. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- First, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers. Using harsh chemicals can damage plastic and lead to the leaching of harmful toxins.
- Second, always make sure the Tupperware is completely dry before storing it. This will prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
- Finally, avoid putting Tupperware in the dishwasher. The high temperatures can damage the plastic.
Some Alternative Items For Tupperware Containers
There are a few alternative items you can use for Tupperware containers.
- For example, glass or ceramic containers are great alternatives. They’re microwave-safe and won’t leach toxins into your food.
- Another option is to use silicone bags. These are also microwave-safe and won’t cause any harm to your food.
- Furthermore, you can use aluminum foil. This is a great option for wrapping leftovers or for covering food in the microwave.
Can You Microwave Tupperware?
More Similar Blogs About Microwave Topic
In case your curiosity about the question of microwaving with Tupperware is in place, why don’t we explore further with some relevant posts from Liliana Kitchen that also discuss the microwave subject that you want may wish to know in advance:
- How To Defrost Chicken In Microwave?
- Can You Microwave Paper Plates?
- How To Cook Sweet Potato In Microwave?
FAQs For “Can You Microwave Tupperware?”
How do I know if Tupperware is microwave safe?
The best way to determine if Tupperware is microwave safe is to look for the microwave-safe symbol. This symbol is usually a picture of a microwave with waves coming out of it.
If you can’t find the microwave-safe symbol, you can also check the bottom of the Tupperware for a product code. The codes “18” or “51” indicate that the Tupperware is safe to use in the microwave.
What happens if you microwave plastic Tupperware?
If you heat up plastic Tupperware in the microwave, it can cause the plastic to change shape or melt. This is more likely to happen with thinner plastics. Furthermore, microwaving plastic Tupperware can release harmful toxins into your food.
Can you microwave Tupperware lids?
Yes, you can microwave Tupperware lids. However, you should make sure that the lid is not made of plastic. Plastic lids can melt in the microwave and release toxins into your food.
When microwaving Tupperware, what is the maximum time you should microwaves?
The maximum time you should microwave Tupperware is two minutes. After two minutes, the plastic can start to warp or melt.
How many times can you microwave Tupperware?
You should only microwave Tupperware a few times before discarding it. After a few uses, the plastic can start to break down and release toxins into your food.
Does Tupperware leach chemicals into food?
Tupperware can leach chemicals into food, especially if it’s made of plastic. The best way to avoid this is to use Tupperware that is made of glass or ceramic. These materials are less likely to leach chemicals into your food.
Can you put frozen Tupperware in the microwave?
Yes, you can put frozen Tupperware in the microwave. However, you should make sure that the Tupperware is microwave safe. For a better heat-up process, it is best to let your frozen Tupperware outside for about 5 to 15 minutes to let the food easier to heat up in the microwave.
Final Verdict
The verdict is in: you can microwave Tupperware, but it’s not always a good idea. Certain materials used to make Tupperware containers may release chemicals when microwaved. While the amount of these chemicals released is small and doesn’t pose a health hazard, it’s still better not to microwave Tupperware whenever possible.
If you do need to heat something up in a Tupperware container, be sure to take it out of the microwave as soon as it’s done cooking and give it time to cool down before putting the lid back on.
I hope this blog post has answered your question – “Can you microwave Tupperware?”. If you have any further questions about Tupperware or plastic containers in general, feel free to reach out to us in the comments section below. Liliana Kitchen will be very pleased to know and answer all of your curious in the range of our bits of knowledge about the world of food!