Is it safe to?Reviewed: 2025-12-27~1 min

Is it safe to microwave plastic wrap?

Short answer

⚠️Depends / use caution

It depends—on whether the wrap is labeled microwave-safe, how you use it (no contact, vented, short heating), and the type of food.

Why people ask this

People worry that heating plastic wrap could leach chemicals into food or melt onto it. Guidance varies by brand and country, older advice referenced PVC wraps, and many households use wrap as a quick splatter cover.

When it might be safe

Use only wrap clearly labeled microwave-safe and follow the brand’s directions.
Keep the wrap from touching food by using a taller container or tenting it; leave a gap.
Vent a corner or poke small holes so steam can escape.
Heat in short intervals or at lower power, just to reheat—not for long, high-temperature cooking.
Use a microwave-safe glass or ceramic container under the wrap.
Avoid very fatty or sugary foods contacting the wrap; place parchment between if needed.

When it is not safe

Using wrap that is not labeled microwave-safe or of unknown composition.
Letting wrap touch the food, especially hot, fatty, or oily items like cheese or meats.
Sealing wrap tightly without venting, which can trap steam and overheat.
Long, high-power heating sessions that can melt or degrade the wrap.
Using plastic wrap in convection, grill, or conventional oven modes.

Possible risks

Chemical migration from the plastic into food, increased by direct contact, high heat, and fatty foods.
Melting or warping of the wrap, leading to contamination or a mess.
Steam burns when removing tightly covered, hot containers.
Off-odors or taste transfer if the wrap overheats.

Safer alternatives

Cover with a microwave-safe glass lid or an inverted plate.
Use a reusable silicone microwave cover/splatter guard.
Place a paper towel or parchment over the dish to control splatter.
Reheat in a vented, microwave-safe container with a designed lid.
Use wax paper labeled microwave-safe as a non-contact cover.

Bottom line

Microwave only wrap that’s labeled microwave-safe, keep it from touching the food, and vent it for short reheats. When in doubt, use a glass lid, silicone cover, or paper/parchment instead.