How to Use a Microwave: A Student Friendly Guide

Learning how to use a microwave is one of the most basic skills a student needs to pick up in the early days of university life. Wherever your student accommodation is located, the microwave will quickly become a go to for quick and easy meal prep.

In this short guide we will teach you everything you need to know about using microwaves safely, so you can serve up some convenient evening meals with ease.

Why Every Student Should Master the Microwave

Microwaves are an essential bit of kit when time, energy, and money are limited. They’re quicker than ovens, safer than hobs, and brilliant for small portions. Whether you’re heating up homemade soup, prepping breakfast in a mug, or softening butter for baking, a microwave handles it in minutes.

If you aren’t the most confident of cooks, learning how to use a microwave well can save you from having to order food in all the time, and make sure you eat a little bit healthier.

How to Use a Microwave: Step by Step

1. Set Things Up

Place your microwave on a flat, clean surface with plenty of space around the sides and back. Make sure that the power cable isn’t stretched or plugged into an overflowing extension lead. The turntable inside should spin freely with no blockages.

2. Use Microwaveable Containers

Only use bowls, plates, and containers that have been marked as microwave safe. Glass and ceramics are ideal. Try to avoid using putting anything metallic inside your microwave as this can cause sparks to fly, inevitably damaging your machine.

3. Position Your Food Well

Place your food in the middle of the turntable so that it doesn’t catch on the sides, risking spillages. This also helps you get an even cook and prevents pressure building up.

4. Find the Right Power Setting

Microwave wattages vary between around 700W and 1000W. Use a higher setting for reheating leftovers, and lower power levels for defrosting or softening.

5. Time it in Short Bursts

Begin heating your food in small intervals. Stir or rotate food if needed, especially when reheating. Frozen meals or noodle bowls will provide you with the exact heating instructions on the packet.

6. Let it Sit

After cooking, let the food rest inside the microwave for a minute before removing it. This helps is to finish cooking and reduces your chance of steam burns.

7. Always Check Before Eating

Microwaves aren’t perfect, meaning they can occasionally cook food unevenly. Stir your food before eating and check the centre is piping hot before digging in.

Easy Microwave Meals You Should Try

It’s easy to think that microwaves can only be used to heat up pre-packed food, but in reality there is a lot you can do with them. Bringing together a few cupboard staples can result in a warming snack with less washing up to do.

Snacks and Quick Meals

• Instant porridge or oats
• Couscous or microwaveable rice
• Baked beans (just add toast)
• Mug cakes and brownies
• Instant noodles
• Leftovers with a splash of water

A microwave isn’t really meant for dynamic meals that’ll impress your friends, but for convenient snacks they are unmatched.

Microwave Safety: What to Remember

Using a microwave is generally safe, but there are a few key habits that can help you avoid accidents or damage.

Always use the right containers and look for ones marked microwave safe. Steer clear of anything with metal or foil. After each use, wipe up any spills and keep the inside clean to prevent build up and smells. It’s also a good idea to stay nearby while it’s running so you can step in quickly if something goes wrong. For even heating, stir your food partway through cooking or reheating.

It’s also good to remember that running a microwave without anything inside can cause serious damage. If you ever notice any strange smells or sparks, stop cooking immediately and unplug it if you can.

Common Microwave Questions Answered

How can I tell if something is microwave safe?

Look for the microwave symbol on the base, or check the packaging. If unsure, stick to plain glass or ceramic.

Is it OK to defrost frozen meat in the microwave?

Generally yes, but we wouldn’t recommend it as there’s no guarantee it’ll defrost fully before you start cooking.

Why does my food cook unevenly?

Microwaves work by heating the outer layer first, so try stirring midway through cooking.

Is using a microwave cheaper than an oven?

Totally! Microwaves use less energy and take less time than traditional ovens. This makes them a handy way of saving power.

Discover More Student Lifestyle Tips

In need of even more helpful student life advice? Explore our blog, created to help you get through university as simply as possible.

Final Thoughts

Figuring out how to use a microwave isn’t going to change the world, but it will certainly change how you view cooking. It keeps you fed, saves you time, and builds confidence in your own ability to prepare meals.

From heating leftovers to late night mug cakes, it’s all part of learning how to care for yourself while living away from home.

Ping! We’re done, and in while reading this your meal should be ready too.