Are Microplanes Having Durability Problems?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread explores experiences related to the durability of microplanes, particularly focusing on issues with cracking and breakage. Participants share personal anecdotes regarding replacements and the conditions under which their microplanes have failed.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, reported processing multiple replacements for a customer whose microplane cracked in the same spot.
  • Another participant shared their experience of having to replace their microplane twice for similar reasons, suggesting that proper technique may help prevent damage.
  • Several users mentioned that they observed others experiencing issues when using the microplane in a flat position over a bowl, while it seemed to perform better when held at an angle.
  • One participant noted that they have not had any problems with their microplane and speculated that their usage technique may contribute to its durability.
  • Another participant expressed frustration with the difficulty of operating the handle, which may affect their usage frequency.
  • Some participants reported issues with the clear plastic food holder breaking, while others mentioned that they had not encountered any problems at all.
  • One participant described a situation where their microplane broke during a demonstration, leading to a replacement.
  • Another participant shared that their microplane broke immediately upon trying to open it, despite applying minimal pressure.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ regarding the durability of microplanes, with some participants reporting frequent issues while others have had no problems. No clear consensus emerges on the reasons for the breakage.

Contextual Notes

Participants' experiences vary widely, with some using the microplane frequently and others rarely. The discussion reflects a range of techniques and conditions under which the microplanes are used.

Who May Find This Useful

This thread may be of interest to consultants who are seeking insights into common issues with microplanes and the experiences of their peers regarding product durability.

Y
yankeeinontario
Silver Member
Messages
123
I just got a call from a customer about a broken microplane. This will be the third replacement one that I processed for her. I quizzed her.

1. Dishwasher (no, but it is dishwasher safe)
2. What are you grating? (parmesan, ginger, garlic)
3. Flat or at an angle? (flat)

The black plastic around the grating piece has cracked in the same place on all 3 planes.

Are you replacing lots of these?
 
I've had to replace mine twice for the same reasons...good thing to remind her of is to let the grater do the work, you don't have to push down for it to do it's job!
 
The other day we were talking about this and everyone who had cracked theirs had been laying them over a bowl and grating in the flat position instead of just holding it by itself.. it can't seem to take that pressure... it does fine in the easel position.
 
I do mine flat but don't lay it down and have not had a problem and have no one complain about theirs. The clear food holder cracked on mine though - it just started peeling and then broke. I never put it in the dishwasher.

I demo it at every show so they do see how I do it - could be they're using it the same way I do and that's why they haven't broken theirs either...
 
I've replaced mine once and my director has replaced hers twice.
 
A customer broke the handle because she didn't follow the directions. Will PC replace that within the 30 days or is it tuff luck you broke it?
 
I should know how but don't how do you open again because the handle is like stuck?
 
nikki70563 said:
I should know how but don't how do you open again because the handle is like stuck?
Click to expand...
Put your thumb on the part that looks like a button and squeeze with your fingers. That will release it to change positions.
 
thanks I tried it but maybe didn't get it right will try when get home from work.
 
I've never had a problem with mine, nor have my customers. I hope I didn't just jinx myself!
 
Addie4TLC said:
A customer broke the handle because she didn't follow the directions. Will PC replace that within the 30 days or is it tuff luck you broke it?
Click to expand...
My sister broke her's the same way and they replaced it no questions asked.
 
nikki70563 said:
thanks I tried it but maybe didn't get it right will try when get home from work.
Click to expand...

Make sure you're pushing it in the right direction. On the top of the handle, there's a picture of a lock and shows you which way to push it (or pull, whichever).
 
yankeeinontario said:
I just got a call from a customer about a broken microplane. This will be the third replacement one that I processed for her. I quizzed her.

1. Dishwasher (no, but it is dishwasher safe)
2. What are you grating? (parmesan, ginger, garlic)
3. Flat or at an angle? (flat)

The black plastic around the grating piece has cracked in the same place on all 3 planes.

Are you replacing lots of these?
Click to expand...

That happened to me when I was doing a demo at a booth. :grumpy: I replaced it, but I don't use it (DH does); I use the Deluxe Cheese Grater now.
 
I rarely use mine because I have an extremely hard time pushing the button in for the handle. I struggle pushing it down (can't get enough pressure in my thumbs) and if my fingernails are long, then forget, I'm not going to get it open at all!
 
You don't push down a button. You put your thumb there for leverage and pull the handle towards you.
 
I rarely use mine, I would rather use the Deluxe cheese grater. I haven't had any complaints about it though.
 
My hosp director has broken 3 of them durring demo's I've seen her do it twice. Once at a show and once at a meeting.
 
I've never had an issue with mine, I think it came in my kit so it's at least 1 1/2 years old. When opening it, just look at the top and slide the handle in the direction the arrow is pointing. It's very easy and doesn't take much effort.
 
I struggled with mine for quite a while but have finally gotten the hang of it. Not heard of any breaking though.
 
I tell my guests to hold the handle in their right hand. Put your thumb on the round end of the hinge. Press with your thumb and pull with your fingers holding the handle. The handle then slides toward your body. While you slide the handle take your left hand and move the blade end up or down where you need it. It seems to help.
 
The clear plastic piece has fallen and broken twice. I also had a host have the same exact thing happen.
 
yeah i had that happen also plus part of where the handle connects to the grater broke off!
 
Have it, love it...never had a problem.
 
Chef Endora said:
Have it, love it...never had a problem.
Click to expand...

Same here - the only thing that has broken on me is the clear plastic cover, and only b/c of me being too rough with it! :blushing:
 
I have had to replace mine because the black part cracked behind the grater. I do not know how it happened, it was like that after a show when I unpacked. they replaced it with no problems.
 
I was glad to find this thread. My microplane grater just broke while my son was grating some parmesan, which he does often for me.

Thank goodness it is still under the 3-year guarantee. I sent in for a product adjustment. When they get it back, they will see it snapped like everyone else here has described.

I was tempted to blame my son when it happened! After the initial disappointment, I realized it was just his bad luck that he happened to be using it when it decided to snap, instead of me. We usually use it on an angle and grate into a bowl. We use it a LOT so I hope I get the replacement soon!
 
I'm glad to see this too...I've never even used mine, I tried to open it when I got it out of my kit and it broke immediately! I applied almost no pressure trying to open it and the handle cracked right off!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Microplanes having durability problems?

Some users have reported issues with the durability of certain Microplane products, particularly with the blades becoming dull or breaking after extended use. However, many customers also praise their longevity when used properly and maintained well.

What factors contribute to the durability of Microplanes?

The durability of Microplanes can be influenced by factors such as the material quality, frequency of use, and how they are cleaned and stored. Using them on hard surfaces or improper cleaning methods can lead to quicker wear and tear.

How can I extend the life of my Microplane?

To extend the life of your Microplane, avoid using it on hard surfaces like glass or metal, clean it gently by hand instead of in a dishwasher, and store it in a protective case or sheath to prevent damage to the blades.

Are there specific Microplane models known for durability issues?

While some users have reported issues with specific models, experiences can vary widely. It's best to check customer reviews and ratings for the particular model you are considering to gauge its durability.

What should I do if my Microplane breaks or becomes dull?

If your Microplane breaks or becomes dull, you can contact the manufacturer for warranty information or replacement options. Additionally, sharpening services may be available for some models to restore their functionality.

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