Can Pyrex be used in the kitchen? - The complete guide

Pyrex is one of the most popular cookware options out there. People know them for their casserole and bake functions and they are quite versatile.

You can buy many different types of Pyrex dishes and accessories, so it’s important to know what their capabilities and limitations are.

Without a doubt, Pyrex can withstand heat, making it a great option for use in the oven.

Of course, even with that, there are certain things to know and keep in mind when using it in the oven to ensure it doesn’t break or crack.

Can Pyrex be used in the kitchen?  Although Pyrex is made to handle heat, it is not designed for the kitchen. Warnings and instructions of all kinds tell us that using Pyrex on the stove is something you should never do. 

In this guide, we will talk about whether or not Pyrex can be used in the kitchen. We’ll talk about why or why not and also the best practices for using and caring for your Pyrex.

There is a lot to know and understand, but the Pyrex is versatile and useful in so many ways.

Stay with us to find out if Pyrex can be used in the kitchen and much more.

Understanding how to use Pyrex (and how not to!)

Pyrex cookware has many basic functions. You can cook, bake, reheat, and even chill the dish, but there are definitely a few things to keep in mind when making any of these items with your Pyrex.

What you should keep in mind the most is that Pyrex should never be used in the kitchen . It doesn’t matter if you have a gas, ceramic or other hob. Pyrex is not designed for these surfaces.

If you try to cook with Pyrex on the stove, you can end up having a big problem.

Pyrex was really designed for the oven. Of course, there are some things you should know, as there are certain practices to best use your Pyrex in any situation.

To be fair, this issue exists because some of the older Pyrex cookware was made to be kitchen safe. If you can find old cookware that is safe for cooking, then you can use it as such.

However, most Pyrex cookware is considered bakeware and can break if you try to use it in the kitchen. If your lovely grandmother remembers using her Pyrex on the stove, this is why.

Sometimes you can still find these plates, but new ones are no longer made in their product lines. Also, for reference, many of them look like pots or pans.

The traditional tableware and glassware known from Pyrex today cannot and should not be used in the kitchen.

Proper use and care of Pyrex

There are a few things you should know about your Pyrex. They have more than one line of dinnerware. Keep in mind that they used to have kitchen utensils, but the crockery you buy now in the store will be oven-baked or glassware.

If you want to be sure that you use your Pyrex correctly and avoid problems, there are some rules that you must follow. The first rule is to know that they are not safe for the kitchen.

There are some specific tips to follow when using Pyrex in the oven as well. That is what we are going to cover in this part of our guide.

First of all, when you use Pyrex in the oven, you have to make sure that the temperature does not exceed 425 degrees. Pyrex bakeware is designed to be safe at temperatures up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

With this in mind, you should not use the grill as the heat is too strong and intense for the glass to withstand and could crack the pan.

One thing that most people don’t know is that you shouldn’t put Pyrex in a cold oven. You should always preheat the oven and make sure the Pyrex is at room temperature.

Glass is affected by extreme changes in temperature, so if it’s been in the fridge or freezer, you need to let it come to room temperature before popping it in the oven.

The same goes for the opposite. If your pan is still warm from the oven, don’t just put it in the freezer.

If your Pyrex is chipped or cracked, this compromises the integrity of the pan, so you shouldn’t put it in the oven.

Another thing to keep in mind is that you want the font to be at least half full. This means that you should cover the bottom of the pan or perhaps add some liquid to cover the bottom of the pan. You don’t want it to be almost empty or less than half.

Now, if you think about the best cleaning practices, you’re not so limited. You can clean your Pyrex in the dishwasher or in the sink with dish soap. It is recommended to use a non-abrasive cleaner.

You can put the tableware to soak and then wash it. Again, just make sure that there are no extreme temperature changes that could damage the dishes.

What makes Pyrex break?

If your Pyrex breaks, there is most likely a reason. The most common reason Pyrex breaks is that a stress is placed on the glass. Stress can come in the form of temperature changes or it can come from other issues.

We will mention that Pyrex is more likely to break for 3 reasons. We’ve covered them in a basic way above, but as a reminder, these are the most common causes.

• Extreme temperature changes (from freezer to oven, etc.)
• The plate is not full enough of food or liquid
• The plate was heated while it had a crack or chip, creating excess pressure

How to treat a broken pyrex

It can be incredibly scary to have your Pyrex break. And what do you do about it? How do you handle this type of situation?

There could be a million different scenarios to consider here, but let’s think about what you’re most likely to experience.

The plate could break in your hands, the plate could break in the oven, or the plate could break sitting on the stove or counter. Most likely you do not have advance notice.

The plate will break in its own time, if it is going to break at all. It just depends on when and how the elements affect you.

Fortunately, it’s not likely that your plate will break if you follow all of the safety tips above. Of course, there is no guarantee, but the dishes are designed to withstand temperatures and use when handled correctly.

If your Pyrex shatters, start by making sure everyone in the area is safe, including you.

Check for wounds and glass shards that may have struck a person or impinged on the skin. Some first aid may be required, but hopefully not drastic.

Never attempt to salvage affected or nearby food if the Pyrex has shattered. That crystal could be literally anywhere, so it’s not worth saving the food.

The little bits could be hiding in food or anything that wasn’t covered.

Before you start cleaning, you should make sure you are wearing shoes and put on some protective gloves. This will prevent you from accidentally stepping on the glass or unexpectedly cutting your hands.

Handle all crystals very carefully and clean all surrounding areas as small shards can end up anywhere.

You can use a damp paper towel to try to pick up any bits that are not easily visible or easy to clean. Glass is notorious for breaking into tiny shards and slivers that are almost invisible until you touch them.

Related questions

We hope you find this guide on whether or not Pyrex can be used on a stove useful and informative. There are certainly a few things to know before using Pyrex and most Pyrex dishes are not stovetop safe.

Please see the following Q&A section for some additional details.

Why can old Pyrex be used on the stove?

It’s not necessarily old Pyrex. The difference is that Pyrex cookware was suitable for the kitchen and Pyrex cookware or glassware that is not.

The cookware line is an old line that is no longer manufactured. It was made of borosilicate glass which made it compatible with the kitchen.

Can Pyrex be put on a hot plate?

A hot plate is similar to a stove in design, especially when used for cooking. If you use the hot plate for cooking, you should not use Pyrex. If you use it as a “keep warm” tool, it may be safe.

Can Pyrex be used in the microwave?

Normally, Pyrex can be used in the microwave. Just make sure your Pyrex dish is half full or more and definitely not nearly empty as this will cause excessive pressure.