Are Pyrex Mixing Bowls Microwave Safe?: A Guide to Using Pyrex in the Microwave

I have always loved cooking and baking. It’s my creative outlet, my stress reliever, and my way of showing love to my friends and family. And when it comes to my kitchen tools and cookware, I always make sure to invest in high-quality products, including my mixing bowls.

One brand that has been a staple in my kitchen for years is Pyrex. Known for its durability and versatility, Pyrex has been a trusted name in the culinary world. But one question that often pops up when it comes to using Pyrex in the microwave is, are Pyrex mixing bowls microwave safe?

Table of Contents

The Microwave Safety of Pyrex Mixing Bowls

The History of Pyrex

To understand whether Pyrex mixing bowls are microwave safe, we need to take a trip down memory lane. Pyrex was first introduced by Corning Glass Works in the early 1900s. It quickly became popular among homemakers for its ability to withstand high temperatures without shattering.

The original Pyrex was made of borosilicate glass, a type of glass that is highly resistant to thermal shock. This meant that you could take a Pyrex dish straight from the oven and place it on a cold countertop without worrying about it breaking.

However, in the 1990s, Corning made a significant change to the composition of Pyrex. They started using soda-lime glass instead of borosilicate glass. This switch was mainly due to cost and manufacturing logistics. Soda-lime glass is cheaper and easier to produce in large quantities.

The Microwave-Safe Symbol

So, are Pyrex mixing bowls microwave safe? The answer is both yes and no.

If you have older Pyrex mixing bowls or dishes made of borosilicate glass, you can safely use them in the microwave. However, if you have newer Pyrex products made of soda-lime glass, they may not be as microwave safe.

To determine whether your Pyrex mixing bowl is microwave safe, look for the microwave-safe symbol. It is a square box with wavy lines inside, indicating that the item can be used in the microwave. If you don’t see this symbol on your Pyrex product, it’s best not to use it in the microwave.

The Dangers of Using Non-Microwave Safe Pyrex

Using non-microwave safe Pyrex mixing bowls can be dangerous. When exposed to high temperatures, soda-lime glass has a higher risk of shattering or exploding. This happens because the glass cannot handle rapid temperature changes.

If you place a cold Pyrex mixing bowl directly into the microwave or transfer it from the freezer to the microwave, the sudden change in temperature can cause the glass to crack or break. Not only will this ruin your dish, but it can also pose a safety risk, as you could be exposed to hot food or flying shards of glass.

To ensure your safety and the longevity of your Pyrex mixing bowls, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and only use microwave-safe products in the microwave.

Tips for Using Pyrex Mixing Bowls in the Microwave

If you have microwave-safe Pyrex mixing bowls, here are a few tips to ensure they stay in great condition and that your food is cooked evenly:

Always use a microwave-safe cover or microwave-safe plastic wrap when heating or reheating food in a Pyrex mixing bowl. This will help prevent splatters and maintain the moisture of your food.

Avoid using Pyrex bowls with metallic or gold patterns in the microwave as they may cause sparks.

Handle hot Pyrex bowls with oven mitts or pot holders to protect yourself from burns.

Avoid sudden temperature changes by allowing your Pyrex mixing bowl to cool down before transferring it from the microwave to a cold surface.

Never place an empty Pyrex mixing bowl in the microwave as it can cause the glass to overheat and break.

Conclusion

While Pyrex mixing bowls can be a great addition to your kitchen, it’s crucial to determine whether they are microwave safe before using them. If you have older Pyrex products made of borosilicate glass, they are typically microwave safe. However, if you have newer Pyrex products made of soda-lime glass, exercise caution and look for the microwave-safe symbol. By following the manufacturer’s instructions and using the right products, you can safely use Pyrex mixing bowls in the microwave and enjoy delicious meals and treats without any worry.