Can Bone China Go In The Microwave? Safe or Risky

Can Bone China Go In The Microwave

Bone china is a delicate and beautiful ceramic dinnerware that has been prized for centuries. But its delicate nature leaves many wondering – is it safe to microwave?

Bone china gets its name from one of its key ingredients – bone ash. The bone ash gives bone china its trademark translucency and refinement. However, there has long been a myth that this bone content makes bone china unsafe for the microwave.

What is Bone China?

Bone china is a type of porcelain that consists of bone ash, china stone, and china clay. The bone ash, made up of bones from cows or other animals, comprises at least 30% of the mixture. This gives bone china its characteristic milky white color and smooth, translucent quality that distinguishes it from other types of porcelain.

While delicate, bone china is actually very durable. The addition of bone ash in the clay mixture makes the china much stronger and more resistant to chipping than standard porcelain. This also makes bone china thinner and lighter than other porcelain dinnerware while still maintaining its strength.

There are a few varieties of bone china as well:

• Fine bone china contains more bone ash, making it even more delicate and translucent than regular bone china.
• English bone china is made from English china clay and contains at least 30% bone ash.
• Japanese bone china, or shiran, often contains less bone ash than English bone china, creating more versatility in coloring and design.

No matter the variety, properly cared for bone china can last for many generations as an heirloom.

Is Bone China Microwave Safe?

The good news is – yes, that bone china is generally considered safe to use in the microwave.

While early microwaves sparked concerns for more delicate dinnerware, modern microwaves have come a long way. As long as there are no metal components on the bone china, it can be safely microwaved.

Here are some tips for safely microwaving bone china:

• Check for metal first. Bone china with metallic paints or gold/silver edges should not be microwaved, as the metal can spark and get hot. Plain bone china without metallic embellishments is ideal.
• Use lower power settings. Start with 50% power and gradually increase if needed. The more delicate the bone china, the lower power it should start at.
• Heat food, not empty dishes. Only microwave bone china with food in it, not on its own while empty, which gets too hot. The food helps absorb the heat.
• Don’t microwave for over 2 minutes. Shorter times are ideal for fine bone china. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Allow standing time. Give the dish a few minutes to rest once done before removing it. Sudden temperature changes can shock and crack it.
• Never microwave bone china with cracks or missing pieces. The cracks or chips can expand in the microwave. Only microwave fully intact pieces.

Following these precautions allows you to safely reheat foods in delicate bone china without worry.

Why the Microwave Concerns for Bone China

Most concerns around microwaving bone china stem from its delicate make-up and tendency to get hot:

• Sudden temperature changes – Bone china reacts poorly to sudden, drastic temperature changes. The rapid heating of a microwave can cause cracks or breaks if not careful.
• Thin composition – High-quality bone china tends to be very thin and translucent. Rapid heating could potentially weaken or damage thinner pieces.
• Hot spots – Some types of porcelain and ceramics develop very hot spots when microwaved, which risk burning if touched.
• Metallic components – Any gold leaf, silver, or other metal used for embellishment can spark, melt, or get dangerously hot.

However, when care is taken to microwave at lower power, heat evenly, and avoid metal, there should be no issues.

Microwave Alternatives for Bone China

If you choose not to microwave bone china at all, quicker alternatives include:

• Use the stovetop or oven – Heat foods in bone china on the stovetop or in the oven instead. This allows more even warming without rapid spikes in temperature.
• Warm with hot water – Fill a mug or microwave-safe bowl with hot water. Place the bone china dish containing food in the water to warm gradually.
• Use a warming plate – Electric warming plates or candles can gently heat bone china without the risks of the microwave.
• Enjoy it cold – Salads, chilled desserts, and other cool foods can be served and enjoyed in bone china without needing heat at all.

Proper Care for Bone China

To keep bone china looking its best for a long time:

• Hand wash – Gently hand wash bone china using mild detergent and soft cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.
• Line dishwashers – If machine washing, line racks with towels and use a gentle cycle. Avoid overcrowding.
• Don’t soak – Avoid soaking bone china, as moisture can seep into tiny cracks and expand them.
• Store carefully – Wrap pieces individually in soft tissue and store them somewhere free of dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures.
• Regularly inspect – Look for hairline cracks, rough edges, or other issues so they can be repaired before worsening.

With proper care and cautious microwave use, bone china can last for many years or decades. It’s too beautiful not to want to use it daily!

FAQ

Can bone china go in the microwave?

Yes, bone china is microwave-safe. It is made from a combination of bone ash and porcelain, which can withstand microwave radiation without getting damaged.

Is bone china dishwasher safe?

Yes, bone china is generally dishwasher-safe. However, it is recommended to check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper care and maintenance of your bone china tableware.

Does bone china get hot in the microwave?

Bone china can get hot in the microwave like any other ceramic tableware. Always use caution when removing heated bone china from the microwave, as it can retain heat and cause burns.

Can I put bone china in the microwave for a long time?

It is not recommended to leave bone china inside the microwave for an extended period of time. Excessive exposure to microwave radiation can cause the bone china to get extremely hot and potentially crack or break.

Is bone china vegan?

Bone china is not vegan. It is made using bone ash, which is sourced from animal bones, typically cow bones.

How is bone china made?

Bone china is made by mixing bone ash with porcelain. The bone ash provides additional strength and durability to the final product.

Can I put bone china plates in the microwave?

Yes, bone china plates are microwave-safe. However, it is recommended to always use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when removing them from the microwave, as they can become hot during the heating process.

What is bone ash?

Bone ash is a fine powder derived from animal bones, typically cow bones. It is used in the production of bone china to enhance its properties, such as strength and translucency.

What are the benefits of using bone china?

Some benefits of using bone china include its durability, elegance, and translucency. It is also resistant to chipping and scratching, making it suitable for daily use and special occasions.

Can I put bone china in the dishwasher?

Yes, bone china is generally dishwasher-safe. However, to ensure its longevity, it is recommended to use a gentle dishwasher cycle and avoid harsh cleaning agents that can potentially damage the bone china.

Conclusion

Bone china is microwave-safe, despite concerns about its delicate makeup. When cared for properly, bone china can be gently warmed in the microwave without issue using reduced power and cook times. Avoid sudden temperature changes, empty dishes, and pieces with metal trim or cracks.

With extra caution and care, bone china can be safely microwaved to enjoy your meals while preserving the gracefully refined nature of this timeless dinnerware.