Is it dangerous to stand in front of a microwave while it is cooking? I, like most people I know, step away from a microwave while it is on, while some of my other friends have opted to rid their houses of this “science oven” (Thanks American Hustle). Why? Because all of us in some way believe that the microwave is potentially dangerous.
Mental Floss takes on the big question with a resounding “No” to the question, “is it dangerous?” Although, I did find it a bit strange that the FDA claims it is safe to stand in front of the microwave safe, while also suggesting not to stand in front of it while it’s on for long periods of time.
Plus, anyone who has ever been pregnant probably remembers the advice by health care professionals to avoid standing in front of a microwave while it is cooking. This is because microwaves that are not sealed correctly may leak significantly more radiation than the minuscule amounts given off by an FDA regulated properly sealed oven.
How many ovens are properly sealed? It’s hard to say…but if you rent an apartment or have had your oven for many years, it is possible it is leaking and should be replaced. You can read a more about microwave oven seal damage here.
