Marianne Martinez
Glass cookware, such as Pyrex, is typically made of tempered glass, which is not suitable for stovetop use. The heat from the stove is highly concentrated and can cause tempered glass to shatter. However, some glass cookware is made of borosilicate glass, which can handle the heat better and is safe to use on a stovetop. Cast iron cookware can also be used safely on glass stoves, but it is important to ensure that the bottom of the pan is flat to distribute heat evenly.
Can a glass pan go on a stove?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cast iron cookware | Safe to use on ceramic-glass stoves and cooktops |
| Cast iron cookware | Should not cause damage to the pan or cooking surface |
| Cast iron cookware | Should be placed gently on the cooktop and picked up rather than slid |
| Cast iron cookware | Takes longer to heat up and cool down compared to other cookware |
| Glass cookware | Tempered glass is not safe for stovetop use |
| Glass cookware | Borosilicate glass is safe to use on the stovetop |
| Hot pans | Can be placed on a glass cooktop |
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What You'll Learn
Borosilicate glass is safe for stovetops
Borosilicate glass is a popular choice for kitchenware due to its durability and versatility. It is made from a special type of glass that can withstand high temperatures without cracking or breaking easily. This is because it has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, allowing it to handle rapid temperature changes without cracking. Its ability to resist thermal shock and its high heat tolerance make it suitable for use in ovens and on stovetops.
However, when it comes to using borosilicate glass on a stovetop, there are some important considerations and precautions to keep in mind. Firstly, different stovetop types interact differently with borosilicate glass. For example, gas stovetops use an open flame for heating, which poses a higher risk of breakage compared to electric or induction stovetops. To minimise the risk of breakage on a gas stovetop, it is recommended to use a radiator or tripod to evenly distribute heat and avoid placing cold cookware directly over a hot burner.
Additionally, sudden temperature changes can cause thermal shock and possibly lead to breakage. Therefore, it is important to avoid taking a chilled borosilicate glass pot from the refrigerator and placing it directly onto a stovetop, as this can be dangerous. Instead, allow the cookware to adjust to room temperature gradually before placing it on the stove. Similarly, when removing the cookware from the stove, avoid placing it directly into a sink with cold water. Always let it cool down gradually before cleaning or storing it.
While borosilicate glass is designed to withstand high temperatures, it is always advisable to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific guidelines and safety precautions. By understanding the limitations and properly handling borosilicate glass cookware, you can safely use it on various stovetops, including gas, electric, and induction.
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Tempered glass is not safe for stovetops
While tempered glass is often called a "'safety glass' due to its property of shattering into less dangerous, dull pieces when broken, it is not safe for stovetops. Tempered glass is used in some fireplaces because it can withstand heat up to 470°F (243°C). However, if the temperature exceeds 400-500°F (204-260°C), the glass will break. The temperature change of the flame causes the surface temperature of the tempered glass to be uneven, resulting in thermal stress and easy breakage. This type of glass is also prone to cracks if there are imperfections on the surface, and the fragments can be small and irregularly shaped, which may cause scratches and personal injury.
Furthermore, tempered glass stove tops are difficult to keep clean. The fumes and oil stains generated during cooking can easily cause defects on the surface, affecting the appearance. Another drawback is the potential for self-explosion. The tempered glass panels have a self-explosion rate of three thousandths, and the gas stoves that have exploded in the news were made of tempered glass panels. While tempered glass has high strength, it has poor heat resistance and can self-explode when exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods.
Therefore, despite its advantages in certain applications, tempered glass is not a suitable material for stovetops due to its poor heat resistance, susceptibility to thermal stress, and potential safety hazards when broken or exploded. Consumers should carefully consider these risks and explore alternative options available on the market.
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Cast iron is safe for ceramic-glass stoves
Glass pans are not recommended for use on stoves due to the risk of shattering from quick temperature changes. However, cast iron cookware is safe to use on ceramic-glass stoves, provided you follow certain precautions.
Cast iron is heavy, so always place it gently on the cooktop and lift it when moving it around, rather than sliding or dragging it. Make sure the cookware is clean and dry before placing it on the glass cooktop, as food debris can cause burnt-on messes and stains, which can be difficult to clean. When you've finished cooking, promptly remove the cast iron from the glass surface and place it on a cooling rack or trivet to avoid scorch marks.
Cast iron heats slowly and retains heat for long periods, making it ideal for browning, frying, and slow cooking on glass cooktops. It is recommended to use cast iron cookware with a flat bottom on glass stoves to evenly distribute heat. Gradual heating can also prevent thermal shock to the pan.
While cast iron is safe for ceramic-glass stoves, it requires gentle handling due to its weight. Dropping cast iron cookware on a glass cooktop can cause cracks or breakage. Additionally, avoid shaking or shimmying the pan while cooking, as this can cause scratches on both the cookware and the stovetop.
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Cast iron should be lifted, not slid, on glass stoves
It is safe to use cast iron on a glass stove or glass cooktop. However, cast iron is a heavy material, and glass stoves are prone to scratches, so it is important to handle cast iron cookware with care. When placing cast iron cookware on a glass cooktop, always put it down gently to avoid damaging the cooking surface. Similarly, when adjusting the cookware's position, lift it instead of sliding or dragging it to prevent scratches on both the cookware and the stovetop.
Cast iron has a rough surface and is heavy, so sliding it across the glass stove can result in scratches. It is also important to clean cast-iron cookware before placing it on a glass stove, as food particles, grease, or carbon buildup on the bottom of the pan can cause scratches.
To prevent scratches and distribute heat evenly, you can use a heat diffuser between the pan and the glass stove. However, heat diffusers may interfere with heating time and decrease the effectiveness of the heat. Another way to prevent scratches is to season both the interior and exterior of the cookware. Seasoning creates a smooth layer that protects the glass stove.
It is recommended to use cast iron cookware with a flat bottom on glass stoves to evenly distribute heat to the surface of the pan. Cast iron heats slowly and retains heat for long periods, making it ideal for browning, frying, and slow cooking on a glass cooktop.
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Hot pans can be placed on glass cooktops
It is generally advised against placing glass pans on a stove due to the risk of shattering from quick temperature changes. However, some types of glass pans, such as those made from borosilicate glass, can handle the heat better and are safe to use on stovetops. It is important to ensure that the glass cookware is not cracked or chipped, as this can compromise its safety.
On the other hand, cast iron cookware is safe to use on glass cooktops. Cast iron heats slowly and retains heat for long periods, making it ideal for browning, frying, and slow cooking. When using cast iron on a glass cooktop, it is important to place it gently and lift it when adjustments are needed to avoid damaging the glass surface. Additionally, ensuring that the cast iron cookware has a flat bottom helps distribute heat evenly to the pan's surface.
It is worth noting that hot pans can generally be placed on glass cooktops, whether to finish cooking or to set the dish aside to cool. However, for induction cooktops, it is crucial to ensure that the pan is induction-compatible, as the burner will activate if it detects compatible cookware. Additionally, users should avoid placing hot cookware directly over the touchscreen or controls to prevent damage.
While it is possible to use certain types of glass pans on a stove, it is important to exercise caution due to the potential risks. Cast iron cookware is a safer alternative for glass cooktops, providing even heating and excellent heat retention. By following the proper precautions, users can safely utilize their glass cooktops with suitable cookware.
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Frequently asked questions
Most glass cookware is made of tempered glass, which is not safe for stovetop use. The heat from the stove is highly concentrated and can cause the glass to shatter. However, some glass cookware is made of borosilicate glass, which handles this better and is safe to use on a stove.
Unfortunately, there is no clear visual way to distinguish between borosilicate and tempered glass. You can inspect your glass pan to see if it states the type of glass used. If it does not, it is likely made of borosilicate glass.
Yes, hot pans taken directly from the oven can be placed on a glass cooktop to finish cooking or to cool down. However, do not place hot cookware directly over the touchscreen or controls.
Yes, cast iron cookware is safe to use on a glass stove or cooktop. Just make sure to place it gently on the cooktop and lift it when you need to move it, as sliding or dragging it can damage the surface.
Yes, in addition to cast iron, you can use cookware made of materials such as ceramic and aluminum on a glass stove. Just be aware that cast iron is heavier than these alternatives.
