Top 5 Reasons to Switch to Microwave-Safe Stainless Steel

Glass and plastic have long dominated food storage, but more Australians are switching to microwave-safe stainless steel — and for good reason. It's infinitely reusable, lightweight, microwave-safe when ceramic-lined, tastes clean and is easy to keep fresh. If you're weighing up stainless steel vs. glass containers, here are five solid reasons stainless might just win.

At a glance: 5 reasons to switch

• Infinitely reusable — Lasts decades, not months, unlike degrading plastic.
• Lightweight & portable — Far lighter than glass and won't shatter.
• Microwave-safe — Ceramic-lined designs heat food safely.
• Pure taste — The ceramic lining means no metallic aftertaste.
• Easy to clean & freeze — Stain-resistant, odour-free and freezer-friendly.

1. Infinitely reusable

Stainless steel containers don't just last years — they can last decades. Unlike plastic, which degrades, stains and cracks over time, quality stainless steel holds up to daily use. One container can replace a cupboard full of disposable wraps and worn-out tubs, which is better for your wallet and the planet.

2. Lightweight and portable

Compared to glass, stainless steel is significantly lighter — ideal for work lunches, school bags and road trips. And because it's shatterproof, there's no stress about drops or breakages on the go, which makes it a parent-and-commuter favourite.

3. Microwave-safe (yes, really)

Not all stainless steel is created equal, but certain containers — like those from Smash — are designed specifically to be microwave-safe. A ceramic lining lets you reheat meals straight in the container, no transferring to another dish required. Always check yours is labelled microwave-safe before use.

4. Pure taste, no nasties

Thanks to their ceramic linings, modern stainless steel containers won't leave food tasting metallic or funky. The neutral interior keeps flavours clean meal after meal, and with no BPA or plastic touching your food, there are no nasties to worry about either.

5. Easy to clean (and freeze!)

Stainless steel is naturally stain-resistant and doesn't hold onto smells. With a smooth ceramic interior, most residue wipes straight off, and the containers are freezer-friendly too — so you can prep, freeze, reheat and clean up with almost no effort.

The bottom line

Whether you're switching from glass, plastic or a bit of both, microwave-safe stainless steel offers durability, safety and everyday convenience in one. It's a small change that pays off for years. Ready to make the switch? Explore Smash's plastic free stainless steel range, or see why plastic tubs are worth replacing in our guide to plastic food storage containers.

Frequently asked questions

Can you put stainless steel in the microwave?

Standard stainless steel shouldn't go in the microwave, but purpose-built containers can. Smash's plastic free range is ceramic-lined and engineered to be microwave-safe, letting you reheat food safely and evenly. Always confirm your container is labelled microwave-safe before microwaving it.

Why switch from plastic to stainless steel containers?

Stainless steel lasts far longer than plastic, won't leach chemicals when heated and doesn't stain, warp or hold odours. One container can replace dozens of disposable tubs and wraps over its life, so it's better for your health, your budget and the environment.

Does microwave-safe stainless steel affect the taste of food?

No. The ceramic lining on Smash containers keeps food tasting clean, with no metallic aftertaste. It sits between your food and the steel, so flavours stay neutral meal after meal — a common advantage over bare stainless steel.

Is stainless steel food storage worth the higher price?

Yes, over time. Stainless steel costs more upfront than plastic but lasts years or decades rather than months. Because you replace it far less often and can buy spare parts instead of a whole new set, it typically works out cheaper and less wasteful in the long run.