Can You Microwave Plastic Cups?

There never seems to be a lack of availability when it comes to plastic cups around the kitchen. Plastic cups are an extremely easy and a quick way to enjoy any type of drink. But, for those times where you need to heat up a liquid, be sure to check if that plastic cup is safe to be put in the microwave.

Can you microwave plastic cups? No, avoid microwaving plastic cups for most situations. While microwaving most plastic cups won’t cause a fire, the majority of plastic cups are made with bisphenol A (BPA) and polypropylene which are chemicals that can be harmful for human consumption. Plastic can melt in the microwave and harmful chemicals can be released in either your drink or food.

As mentioned by the FDA, only use plastic containers in the microwave that are labeled for microwave use. If you are unsure about the cup or container, it is best to avoid putting the plastic in the microwave.

Reasons Why It Is Not Safe to Microwave Plastic

The main reason plastic cups should not be microwaved is because of the primary chemicals bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. These chemicals are used with plastic to help with the flexibility and shape.

These chemicals can be disruptive to our body’s natural hormones which can cause additional harm to our health.

BPA has been a widely used chemical for almost 60 years. Luckily, modern day society has adapted to a more friendly version of these plastic cups, known as BPA-free plastic bottles. Amazon sells reuseable plastic cups that are microwave friendly. I love how these cups are 26-ounces and dishwasher safe!

Just because the cup isn’t melting, doesn’t mean the plastic cup isn’t still leaching chemicals into your food or drink.

How to Know if a Plastic Cup is Safe to Microwave?

When purchasing plastic cups, most packaging labels will distinguish if they are safe for use in the microwave. If not, you’ll notice that most cups clarify with a statement on the bottom of the cup. Fulares para bebés

For times where you still can’t locate an answer, search the product online to receive additional information from the manufacturer. Most companies that sell plastic products like to answer this question on their FAQ page.

Plastic cups will usually be safe to use in the microwave if they have a BPA sticker located on them.

Can You Microwave Solo Cups?

Solo Cups market themselves as an everyday cup that can be used for all occasions. Despite their firm plastic feel, solo cups should not be used for all daily activities in the kitchen.

No, you can not put solo cups in the microwave. Solo cups are not BPA free which means they contain harmful chemicals that can be released in your drinks and food when heated. Solo cups can become dangerously hot when used in the microwave. Additionally, the heat weakens the plastic which can cause an even bigger mess.

Solo cups are not built to withstand high levels of heat.

Final Thoughts

• Most plastic cups are not safe to be microwaved.
• Plastic cups can contain chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and polypropylene which are not safe for human consumption.
• Chemicals are present in plastic cup to help with the flexibility of the cup.
• Check to see if your plastic cup is microwavable by looking for a notice from the manufacturer – either on the bottom of the cup or on the cup original packaging.
• Solo cups are not safe to microwave. Solo cups have harmful chemicals and can easily melt from the heat of the microwave.