912. Only Rinsing a Plastic Microwave Food Cover

In this episode of Risky or Not, Professors Ben and Don Chapman tackle a listener question from Tucker about whether rinsing a plastic microwave cover with hot water only—rather than washing it with soap and water—is a risky practice. The hosts explore the science behind food splatter, microbial growth, and the conditions necessary for contamination. They conclude that the practice is not risky, especially given that the covers are typically used for dry, non-saucy foods like popcorn and pizza, which produce minimal splatter. The covers are left to air dry on a back burner, reducing moisture and preventing bacterial growth. The hosts also share personal anecdotes about their own kitchen habits, including using repurposed cake covers and not cleaning the microwave covers regularly. Their key argument is that without sufficient moisture or time for microbial proliferation, and with no evidence of contamination, the risk is negligible. The episode ends with a humorous, bacteria-themed outro, reinforcing the podcast’s theme of everyday microbial reality.