Is Pyrex microwave-safe? Yes, with proper safety precautions, Pyrex is perfectly safe in the microwave oven.
Pyrex dishes are a staple in any home kitchen. From measuring cups and Pyrex bowls to casserole dishes and bakeware, these dishes are super versatile and ultra-durable. A wedding registry isn’t complete without a set of Pyrex on the list.
Pyrex even has food storage containers now that you can use for food storage after cooking.
But you might have found yourself wondering, is Pyrex microwave-safe?
This article will take a close look at all the ways you can use your Pyrex in the kitchen. Can you microwave Pyrex glass? Freeze it? Put it in the dishwasher? Find out the answers to those questions and more.
Ready to get started? Let’s dive right in.
Contents
What is Pyrex?
Pyrex is a brand of kitchenware and glassware introduced by Corning in 1915. Corelle brands took over manufacturing Pyrex in 1998. The Pyrex brand has immense popularity across the globe.
You can find a Pyrex glass measuring cup with its iconic red measurement markings in practically any kitchen. And you can’t go to a potluck without seeing Pyrex glass cookware topped with plastic lids.
Watch the video below to learn the fascinating history of Pyrex glassware products:
What is Pyrex Made Of?
Pyrex dishes originally consisted of clear borosilicate glass. Borosilicate glass doesn’t expand as much when exposed to higher temperatures, making it resistant to thermal shock.
Nowadays, Pyrex products are made from tempered glass, a soda lime glass that has been treated for extra durability. This type of glass is shatter-resistant, which is great for those fumble fingers like me!
What’s even better is if you do accidentally break a Pyrex dish, it won’t shatter into long, thin shards. Instead, it will crumble into relatively dull cube-shaped pieces. They don’t call it “safety glass” for nothing!
The downside, however, is that tempered glass does not have the same thermal shock resistance as borosilicate glass. While it is heat-resistant, modern Pyrex can explode if exposed to drastic temperature changes.
However, by using a few common sense tips, you can safely microwave Pyrex. For instance, you should never microwave cold Pyrex glassware or an empty Pyrex cup. Find more safety guidelines below.
Can You Microwave Pyrex Lids?
It might surprise you, but yes! You can safely microwave Pyrex lids. These plastic lids are BPA- and dioxin-free and can withstand high temperatures.
Of course, you must check the manufacturer’s instructions before microwaving the lids.
How to Microwave Pyrex Lids Safely
- Allow for space between the lid and the food inside the Pyrex bowls. Don’t tightly seal the lid, but instead place it loosely over the dish. This prevents extra pressure buildup and lets steam safely release.
- Use oven mitts or pot holders to remove the hot Pyrex dish and lid from the microwave.
- Alloy the Pyrex lid to cool and let the food rest for a minute before serving.
- Open the Pyrex lid away from you so the steam can escape.
Is Pyrex Oven-Safe?
Yes, Pyrex is safe for a conventional oven.
But a BIG note of caution…
The most important rule about using your Pyrex is to avoid extreme temperature changes.
Putting a frozen cold Pyrex bowl in the oven is the quickest way to shatter it. Unless you want exploding Pyrex in your kitchen, avoid putting cold Pyrex glass in the oven.
If your Pyrex has been in the refrigerator, let the cold Pyrex rest on the counter for 15-30 minutes before putting it in the oven. Never take a Pyrex container from the freezer to the oven.
As long as you avoid the broiler, you can safely use Pyrex cookware in a conventional oven up to 425°F (220°C).
Can You Put Pyrex in a Toaster Oven?
Yes, you can use Pyrex glassware in the toaster oven. The same temperature limits apply to a conventional oven.
What About Vintage Pyrex Dishes?
If you have a vintage Pyrex collection, it probably carries special meaning to you. The bright colors and bold patterns are the hallmarks of this glass cookware. Plus, it’s not something you can replace easily. So it makes sense you’d want to take care of your vintage Pyrex glass cookware.
You can use vintage Pyrex in the oven up to 425°F (220°C) without worry. Avoid the broiler, though.
Just like with modern Pyrex, avoid sudden temperature changes. If your vintage glass dish has been in the refrigerator, bring it to room temperature before putting it in the oven.
If the dish is chipped or cracked, you shouldn’t use it anymore.
I would caution against putting vintage bowls in the microwave. The high heat could damage the exterior, and some patterns might negatively react to microwaves. For instance, the Early American pattern features a metallic gold leaf on the exterior, a big no-no for microwaves.
Can You Bake in a Pyrex Bowl?
Pyrex glass bowls are safe for oven use up to 425°F (220°C). However, I would not put the lids in the oven when you cook food.
Can You Freeze Pyrex?
Yes, Pyrex products are freezer-safe. However, you should never put a hot glass pan in the freezer. Let the Pyrex pan cool to room temp first before freezing it.
The same is true of the reverse. Before you put Pyrex in the microwave, be sure it has defrosted and is close to room temperature.
Is Pyrex Dishwasher-Safe?
Pyrex glassware is 100% dishwasher-safe. This is one of the many reasons Pyrex cookware is so popular. It’s durable, microwave-safe, and easy to clean. It’s a dream.
Tips for Using Pyrex Glassware Safely
If you plan on using Pyrex in the microwave or oven, use these safety tips to ensure safe cooking. Of course, you should always check the manufacturer’s instructions, as well.
- Don’t put a cold Pyrex dish in the microwave. If you’re taking the Pyrex out of the fridge, let it sit for 15-30 minutes before cooking it in the microwave oven.
- Never microwave Pyrex while empty. This rapid shift in temperature could cause the glass to break.
- Always preheat the oven before baking with Pyrex. Preheating Pyrex glassware is not a good idea. Let the oven heat up before cooking with Pyrex.
- Don’t place a hot Pyrex dish in cold water. The thermal expansion could cause the pan to crack. Let the pan come to room temperature before plunging it into the sink.
- Never pour hot liquid into a cold Pyrex glass. The combination of hot liquids and a cold surface could cause thermal shock and break the Pyrex glass.
- Let the Pyrex cookware come to room temperature before freezing. Cooking make-ahead meals is fantastic for busy families, but putting a hot Pyrex on a very cold surface is a bad idea. Let the pan sit and cool before putting it in the freezer.
- Don’t place Pyrex on a hot stove. The high heat and extreme temperatures are too much for these glass products.
- Don’t place a hot pan on the counter: Always place hot Pyrex dishes on a heat-resistant pad or trivet. This is to protect the pan from thermal shock and your countertop from any damage.
How to Clean Your Pyrex Dishes
After cooking a delicious meal, you can’t forget about the dishes (unfortunately!). You have several options for cleaning Pyrex glass.
Dishwasher
You can clean Pyrex glass in the dishwasher, either in the top or bottom tray. The lids should only go in the top tray to keep them in good shape.
Hand Washing
You can always hand wash Pyrex cookware with mild dish soap and a non-abrasive sponge or dishcloth. Avoid using steel wool or other sharp objects to avoid scratching.
Magic Eraser
Just when you thought you’d found all the ways you can use a Magic Eraser, here comes another one. Did you know you can clean your Pyrex with it, too? Simply soak the glass dishes for 15 minutes in warm water, then scrub with a Magic Eraser. Easy!
Bar Keeper’s Friend
If you’re looking for something stronger to clean your Pyrex glass, you can always use Bar Keeper’s Friend. This abrasive cleaner works on a wide range of surfaces, including Pyrex products.
Simply sprinkle the powder on the glass container and wet it to form a paste. Let the paste work its magic for 20 minutes, then add water and scrub away the food.
Is Pyrex Microwave Safe? Final Verdict
Is Pyrex glass microwave-safe? Yes, your Pyrex glassware is absolutely microwave safe. However, you should use caution when heating food. Never microwave cold Pyrex to prevent uneven expansion and thermal shock.
Ready to find some glass cookware? Check out this article on the best glass cookware to find the perfect set for you.
