Kitchen containers may look similar, but they do not behave the same under heat. A container that is perfectly safe in a microwave might crack in an oven. A steel box that performs well in an oven can spark dangerously inside a microwave. Understanding these differences helps you avoid melted plastic, cracked glass, food contamination, or damaged appliances.

This guide simplifies how microwaves and ovens heat food, how different materials respond to temperature, and how Veigo products support safe everyday cooking, storing, and reheating.

How Microwave Safe Containers Handle Heat

Microwaves heat food through dielectric heating. The microwaves energise water molecules inside the food, causing them to vibrate and produce steam. The container itself absorbs little or no microwave energy. It warms up only because the food transfers heat into it. 

A microwave safe container must resist melting, warping, chemical leaching, and internal pressure from steam. It must also avoid sparking or reacting with microwave radiation.

Best materials for microwave use

Borosilicate glass
Highly stable and resistant to temperature changes. It does not stain, does not retain odor, and remains safe for daily reheating. Explore microwave friendly borosilicate options here: Veigo HeatUp Microwave Safe Containers

Polypropylene PP 5
A safe microwave compatible polymer commonly used for reheating. Not suitable for ovens.

Microwave safe ceramic
Works well unless the container has metallic decoration.

What to avoid
Never place stainless steel or any metal object inside a microwave.

Why Oven Safe Containers Need Higher Heat Strength

Ovens heat food through convection and radiant heat. The container receives heat from the outside in, which is more stressful than microwave heating. This requires materials that stay stable under dry, consistent, and high temperatures.

Best materials for oven use

Borosilicate glass
Its high thermal shock resistance makes it safe for reheating and baking. Explore options here: Veigo See Serve Glass Containers

Stainless steel
Strong, stable, and ideal for oven reheating. Veigo offers durable steel lunchboxes and MaxoSteel containers for oven use.
View the steel range here: Veigo Stainless Steel Lunchboxes

Ceramic
Suitable for ovens unless decorated with metal.

What to avoid
Plastics cannot tolerate dry oven heat and will warp or melt.

Temperature Limits of Common Food Container Materials

Understanding the temperature tolerance of each material helps you choose the right container for reheating and cooking.

 

Identifying Safe Containers Through Symbols

Most quality containers display icons indicating whether they are microwave safe or oven safe.

• Microwave safe symbol: three wavy lines
• Oven safe symbol: oven icon or temperature rating

If there is no symbol, do not assume safety. Veigo usage guidelines are available here: Veigo Care Instructions

Understanding Thermal Shock and How to Avoid It

Thermal shock happens when a container experiences sudden temperature changes. The material expands or contracts unevenly, which can lead to cracks.

Examples include:

• Moving a cold container directly into a hot oven
• Placing a hot container on a cold surface
• Pouring cold water into a hot glass container

Borosilicate glass handles shock more effectively than other glass types.

How to Choose the Right Veigo Container for Your Routine

Choosing the right container depends on how you cook, reheat, and store your meals.

Microwave Reheating

Choose borosilicate glass from the HeatUp series. Veigo HeatUp Set of 3

Oven Reheating

Use stainless steel or borosilicate glass.
Steel on Oven Safe Container
Veigo See Serve Glass Range

Everyday Storage and Lunch Carrying

Stainless steel containers are durable, leak resistant, and ideal for daily use.
Explore Veigo Lunchboxes

Versatile Home Use or Gifting

Combo packs provide ready to use sets for families.
Veigo Combo Packs

Maintaining Longevity

Veigo provides replacement clips, silicone rings, and accessories to extend the life of every container.
Veigo Accessories

Why Smarter Container Choices Improve Kitchen Safety

Microwave safe and oven safe containers are built for different heating environments. Microwave safe containers tolerate steam based heating, while oven safe containers withstand strong and direct heat. Borosilicate glass offers the most flexibility, stainless steel excels in oven reheating, and PP 5 plastic works best for microwaves.

Choosing the right container helps you avoid breakage, food contamination, and appliance damage. To explore safe and reliable options for every type of reheating, visit the complete Veigo collection here: Veigo All Products