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The microwave is such a big help in the kitchen that we sometimes find ourselves wishing that we could put everything in it. But that would be a bad plan. Because there are some things that you should never, ever put in your microwave. We all know metal and microwaves don’t mix, but here are 12 other items that lead to disaster if they find their way into a microwave.

1. Paper Bags

Paper bags release toxins when heated and they can also catch on fire. Definitely a no go.

2. Grapes

Grapes just can’t handle the heat and have a tendency to explode when microwaved. Maybe it’s best you just eat them cold.

3. Vintage Dishes

Vintage plates may be beautiful… but they might also be full of lead. The FDA didn’t establish limits on lead in dishes until 40 years ago, so if you have an old plate your best bet is to heat your food on something else to prevent any chance of lead leaching into your food during heating.

4. Styrofoam

Don’t try it. Even just for a few seconds. Styrofoam is a plastic and so it melts under high heat. It’s just no match for the microwave.

Read on for a few containers that shouldn’t see the inside of a microwave and one thing we’re sure you’d never try… Click the Next Page button below.