Glass cookware is a kitchen staple that can be used to store, bake, and serve food. It can withstand most oven-based cooking, does not have a negative reaction to acidic foods, and is generally safe to use in the microwave. However, some glass pans are less durable and can shatter under certain conditions. Cracked glass bakeware can splinter and potentially injure an individual, especially those with arthritis or children. Luckily, glass can be repaired by following some simple safety tips and using the right product for the job.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when working with glass is that it can crack if exposed to sudden, extreme temperatures. This can happen if you move a hot dish straight from the freezer to the oven, for example. It is also best to let your glass cookware cool down before putting it on a cold surface or in the sink. It is also not recommended to bang your glass utensil against metal utensils or objects. Lastly, never attempt to juggle or drop your glass cookware.
The biggest drawback to most glass ware is that it does not handle high heat very well. This means that it is not ideal for a broiler, as the open flame could damage the glass. Additionally, glass tends to not conduct heat very well, so it is best to avoid bringing it directly into contact with electric elements. If you must, take care to prevent your glass cookware from coming in direct contact with electric components or intense heat by placing a metal trivet under it.
While the durability of glass is a plus, it is not as strong as other types of cookware such as stainless steel and ceramic-coated pots and pans. While it is not likely to break, scratching or chipping of the glass can occur if it comes into contact with other hard utensils or surfaces such as a granite countertop or steel sink. The sturdiness of glass can also be compromised by repeated exposure to very high temperatures, such as when a baking dish is placed in the oven at too high a temperature for an extended amount of time.
Other benefits of glass cookware include its transparency, which allows you to easily monitor the progress of your meal without having to remove the lid. This is particularly useful when making casseroles and other dishes that require long cooking times. It is also non-porous, which means that it doesn’t absorb and retain odors and flavors in the same way that other types of cookware can. Finally, unlike some other types of cookware, such as cast iron, it does not need to be seasoned or re-seasoned after each use.