I like the way my potatoes turn out in my bag much better then wrapping them in plastic wrap or cooking in a bowl with a little water. The first time I made them, I cooked them too long and I "toasted" my bag a little. Now I use the potato setting on my micro for the number of potatoes I'm cooking (only 1 - 3 taters) and they turn out perfect. I don't like to use the oven for only a couple of potatoes. Baking is still my favorite method if I'm cooking for more than me and my hubby. Maybe part of the problem is overcooking and the potatoes heat the material too much. I like the idea of using cotton kitchen towels instead of batting. I think I will use that for the next ones I make.