New bakeware comes with instructions for use and care. Unfortunately, we often discard this label, and it's soon forgotten. Some consumers have had incidents of glass bakeware shattering in the oven or having it placed on the counter to cool. Did I mention how inexpensive and easy to find they are and how they look good and go with all kinds of dinnerware? Glass bakeware puts a beautiful crust on your casseroles and makes it easy to check on how well they're browning.
How many stories have you heard of glass baking dishes exploding into a zillion tiny pieces in the oven, leaving cooks with no dinner, big messes to clean up, and worst of all, potential injuries to deal with? Escape the statistics and follow these tips to keep your glass baking dishes safe and longer:
- Avoid temperature changes: No going from freezer to oven or from oven to sink.
- Do not add liquid to hot glassware.
- No higher heat than 177 C.
- Do not place hot bakeware on cold or wet surfaces or countertop. Instead, place on a towel, cutting board, or a cooling rack.
- Do not use it on the stovetop, under a broiler, or in a toaster oven. It will immediately be subjected to high heat.
- Defrost dishes and let hot things cool: Don't put a frozen lasagna directly into a hot oven without defrosting it. Allow pans to cool completely before immersing them in water.
- Use care when washing. Do not poke or scratch it with utensils.
- Allow the oven to preheat before adding the bakeware.
- Don't place it on a cold surface or a wet towel. Make sure you always put the hot dish on a dry cloth potholder.
- Try not to drop it or knock glassware around. Even if it doesn't break, it can develop tiny chips or cracks inside that aren't visible.