
Pyrex is a popular choice for kitchenware due to its versatility and durability. However, one common question that often arises is whether it is safe to use Pyrex pans directly on stovetop burners. While some people recall using Pyrex on stovetops for decades without issues, others have shared explosive stories of shattered glass and ruined meals. So, what's the verdict? Well, it seems that Pyrex, with its susceptibility to thermal shock, is not suitable for direct heat sources like stovetop burners, despite its performance in ovens and microwaves.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Pyrex is not safe to use on a burner as it can break, crack, or explode due to thermal shock. |
| Material | Pyrex is made from borosilicate glass (European Pyrex) or soda-lime glass (American Pyrex). |
| Temperature Sensitivity | Pyrex is susceptible to breakage if it gets too hot or is subjected to sudden temperature changes. |
| Manufacturer Instructions | Pyrex manufacturers advise against using their glassware on stovetops, open flames, electric burners, or under broilers. |
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What You'll Learn

Pyrex pans are not meant to be used on burners
Some people have tried using Pyrex on burners, and it has resulted in their cookware exploding or cracking. One person tried melting butter on low heat, and their Pyrex dish exploded violently, sending glass shards flying. Another person's Pyrex dish cracked due to the heat of the burner. Even if a Pyrex dish is rated for -40 to +300 degrees Celsius, it is still risky to use it on a burner. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not use Pyrex on the stovetop to avoid potential danger.
The type of glass used in Pyrex also affects its suitability for use on burners. American Pyrex is made from soda-lime glass, which is sensitive to thermal shock. Even though it is tempered for kitchenware, it is not suitable for burners. European Pyrex is made from borosilicate glass, the same type of glass used in laboratory equipment. While it may be slightly more durable than American Pyrex, it still carries a significant risk of breaking on a burner.
There are some types of Pyrex that are meant to be used directly on the stove, such as Flameware and some modern Pyrex lines like Visions. These products are specifically designed for this purpose and can be used safely. However, it is important to always check the manufacturer's instructions before using any type of Pyrex on a burner to ensure it is safe to do so.
In conclusion, Pyrex pans are not meant to be used on burners. The glass can crack or explode due to thermal shock, and it is not a safe or effective way to conduct heat. There are other types of cookware that are better suited for stovetop use, and it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safe and proper use of Pyrex products.
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American Pyrex is made from soda-lime glass, which is sensitive to thermal shock
Pyrex is a brand name for a range of glassware products used in kitchens and laboratories. It is important to note that not all Pyrex glassware is made from the same type of glass. American Pyrex products are made from soda-lime glass, while European Pyrex products are made from borosilicate glass.
Soda-lime glass is a type of glass that is commonly used in a variety of household items, such as drinking glasses and pickle jars. It is inexpensive to produce and can be treated to increase its durability. However, one of its major drawbacks is its sensitivity to thermal shock, which can cause it to shatter. Thermal shock occurs when there is a sudden or extreme change in temperature, such as when a hot liquid is poured into a cold glass. Soda-lime glass has a high coefficient of thermal expansion, which means that it expands significantly when heated and contracts when cooled. This makes it susceptible to breaking when exposed to extreme temperature changes.
On the other hand, borosilicate glass, which is used in European Pyrex products, is known for its resistance to thermal shock. It has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, which means that it does not undergo significant expansion or contraction when exposed to temperature changes. This makes it a safer option for use on burner stoves, as it can withstand higher temperatures and rapid cooling without shattering.
The difference in thermal shock resistance between American Pyrex (soda-lime glass) and European Pyrex (borosilicate glass) has been demonstrated through experiments and calculations. It has been found that soda-lime glass can only withstand a temperature difference of 54 Kelvin before shattering, while borosilicate glass can withstand a difference of 183 Kelvin. This means that using American Pyrex on a burner stove can be dangerous, as the glass can shatter violently and send sharp shards of glass flying across the room.
Therefore, it is strongly advised not to use American Pyrex pans directly on a burner stove due to the risk of thermal shock and shattering. While some older Pyrex products may have been made with borosilicate glass, which is more resistant to thermal shock, modern American Pyrex products are not safe for direct stove-top use. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and warnings to ensure safe use of your Pyrex products.
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Pyrex can be used with an open flame Bunsen burner
Pyrex is made of glass, which is a poor conductor of heat and can be susceptible to breakage when exposed to high temperatures or sudden temperature changes. While Pyrex products are designed to withstand temperatures up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven or microwave, they are not intended for direct contact with a heat source like a stovetop burner.
However, some people have reported using Pyrex on open flame Bunsen burners without issue. It is important to note that there are different types of Pyrex glass, and the suitability of using Pyrex on a burner may depend on the specific type of glass it is made of. For example, European Pyrex is made from borosilicate glass, the same type used in laboratory equipment, while American Pyrex is made from soda-lime glass, which is more sensitive to thermal shock.
Despite some reports of successful use, it is generally advised not to use Pyrex on a burner, as it can pose a safety risk. Pyrex dishes can crack or explode due to heat shock, which can be dangerous and cause property damage. Some modern Pyrex products are specifically designed for stovetop use and will be marked as such. Therefore, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and warnings to ensure safe use.
In conclusion, while it may be technically possible to use Pyrex on an open flame Bunsen burner, it is not recommended due to the potential safety hazards. It is always best to use cookware specifically designed for stovetop or open flame use to avoid any accidents or damage.
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Pyrex pans can go in the dishwasher, fridge, microwave, or oven
Pyrex pans are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, but placing them on a burner is not recommended. Pyrex pans can go in the dishwasher, fridge, microwave, or oven, but they should not be subjected to direct heat sources like stove burners.
Pyrex is a well-known brand of glassware often used in kitchens. While it is durable, it is not indestructible. Pyrex can withstand a wide range of temperatures, from the cool temperatures of a refrigerator to the heat of an oven or microwave. However, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's safety instructions to avoid breakage or thermal shock.
The manufacturer's usage instructions for Pyrex explicitly state, "Don't subject glass to sudden temperature changes or direct heat sources." This warning is crucial because Pyrex should never come into direct contact with any type of heating element, including stove top burners, oven heating elements, and hot plates.
Pyrex pans are not suitable for direct stovetop use due to the risk of thermal shock and sudden temperature changes. When placed directly on a burner, Pyrex can crack or even shatter, posing a safety hazard. Some people have shared their experiences of Pyrex dishes exploding due to heat shock when used on a burner.
Instead of using a Pyrex pan directly on a burner, it is advisable to use cookware specifically designed for stovetop use. Certain types of Corningware and Flameware are safe for stovetop use and can be used as alternatives. These products are marked as stovetop-safe, ensuring their suitability for direct heat.
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Some Pyrex pans have a long handle that can be removed
Pyrex is made of glass, which is a poor conductor of heat. This means that a lot of the heat from the burner will be wasted.
Pyrex products are not meant to be used on burners. Some pieces even explicitly say "Not for stovetop" in their descriptions. Pyrex's online safety and usage instructions include this warning: "Don't subject glass to sudden temperature changes or direct heat sources." This means that Pyrex should never come into direct contact with any type of heating element, including stove top burners.
However, some people have reported using Pyrex on burners without any issues. One person on Reddit mentioned that they have been using their Pyrex on the stove top for 40 years, and even had a Pyrex pan with a removable long handle. This pan could be used as a pot on the stove.
Despite these reports, it is generally not recommended to use Pyrex on a burner, as it can cause the glass to crack or even explode due to thermal shock. This is especially true for American Pyrex, which is made from soda-lime glass that is more sensitive to thermal shock. European Pyrex is made from borosilicate glass, which is the same material used in laboratory equipment, but it can still break on a burner.
Therefore, while some Pyrex pans with removable long handles may be used on a burner without issue, it is not recommended due to the risk of breakage or explosion.
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Frequently asked questions
No, Pyrex should not be used on a burner. Pyrex is made of glass, which is a poor conductor of heat and susceptible to breakage when exposed to direct heat sources. Pyrex's safety and usage instructions explicitly warn against subjecting the material to sudden temperature changes or direct heat, including stove top burners.
Pyrex is made of glass, which can crack or shatter when exposed to direct heat. This is due to thermal shock, which occurs when glass is subjected to sudden temperature changes. Even tempered kitchenware can break due to thermal shock, posing a safety hazard.
Yes, Corningware offers a range of glass pots and pans that are safe to use on stovetops. It is important to check if the cookware is marked as stovetop-safe before using it on a burner. Additionally, certain modern Pyrex products, such as Flameware, are designed to be used directly on stoves.










































