Is Pyrex Microwave Safe?

Kitchen safety is very important, so you want to make sure you are using all your cooking tools correctly. This includes your Pyrex Bakeware.

So, is Pyrex microwave safe? Let’s find out.

The short answer is you can microwave Pyrex Bakeware – in most instances, but not all.

It is designed to go in the microwave. But it is important to use caution, as there are certain circumstances that you should avoid when it comes to microwaving glass Pyrex containers.

My first recommendation is that if you have any questions at all about your Pyrex containers, you should visit the official Pyrex support page and read through their FAQ’s.

Going straight to the source will give you the most reliable answers. If you can’t find the answer to your question over there, then you can always contact customer service directly.

What is Pyrex?

Pyrex is a brand that is part of the Corning family of brands.

This “family” of brands includes other names you would recognize, like CorningWare, Corelle, Snapware, and Instant (as in InstantPot).

There are many different types of products under the Pyrex umbrella. These include:

• storage containers,
• bakeware,
• mix and measure items,
• and even character collections.

For purposes of this article, I am referring to modern Pyrex glass Bakeware.

If you are wondering if you can microwave other types of Pyrex, like food storage containers or vintage Pyrex – it is best to check the official Pyrex website for information specific to the product line that you own.

I cannot stress it enough – if in doubt, you should contact Pyrex customer service directly.

How to Microwave Pyrex Safely

While there are numerous types of foods that you can microwave safely in Pyrex, there are some rules you should follow.

I am paraphrasing these answers from the official Pyrex Support FAQ page and the Pyrex Safety and Usage Instructions here – so if you have any questions or doubts be sure to head over there.

Never Microwave Empty Pyrex

While Pyrex is designed to be microwavable, you should always have food in the Pyrex dish.

Do not microwave an empty one.

Do Not Take Pyrex Directly From Freezer to Microwave

The FAQ’s state that you should allow your Pyrex (with food in it) to come to room temperature before putting it in the microwave.

Of course, you should follow all food safety guidelines, which generally calls for thawing food in the refrigerator – not on out on your countertop.

Do Not Microwave Popcorn or Food in Browning Wrappers in Your Pyrex

Apparently microwave popcorn and food in browning wrappers create a concentrated heat that can damage your Pyrex glass.

So, stay away from microwaving these types of foods in your Pyrex.

Be Sure to Use Oven Mitts

Pyrex Bakeware can get very hot in the microwave. So, be sure to use oven mitts to protect your hands when handling the hot dishes.

Do Not Add Liquid to Hot Pyrex

I was surprised to learn that you should not add liquid to a hot Pyrex dish in either the microwave or a traditional oven.

The sudden change in temperature that will occur can cause the dish to fail.

Engraving Pyrex is a No No

Engraving or etching words or designs into your Pyrex dish can weaken the glass and cause the pan to fail or shatter. It also voids the warranty.

Don’t Use Chipped or Broken Pyrex

It may be tempting to continue to use a Pyrex dish that has a small chip or crack – but don’t do this!

Any broken Pyrex is compromised and can shatter or explode in the microwave.

You will need to replace the dish or look into pursuing any warranties.

Avoid Severe Temperature Changes

One pattern that you see emerging from the above Pyrex usage tips is that you should avoid extreme temperature changes when microwaving Pyrex glass.

There are too many instances to describe – but you need to avoid things like taking a hot dish from the microwave and putting it into the freezer or refrigerator and vice versa.

Don’t put a hot dish on a cold surface when you take it out of the oven – set it on a trivet, potholder or towel instead. This will protect both your counter and your Pyrex.

Never Place Pyrex on a Direct Heat Source

Pyrex will shatter or break when exposed to a direct heat source like a stovetop, air fryer, broiler, or grill.

Can You Microwave Pyrex Lids?

Pyrex covers are microwave safe but it has to be unsealed and place off center so the steam has an avenue for escape.

But remember to NEVER put plastic Pyrex covers in a traditional oven – because they will melt!

Personally, I find the covers to have a limited life compared to the glass Pyrex dishes, themselves.

My plastic covers tend to warp and crack around the edges over time.

The good news is that you can get replacement Pyrex lids.

Find tips for organizing your Pyrex lids here.

Is Pyrex Dishwasher Safe?

Both Pyrex and Pyrex lids are dishwasher safe – but take care to keep them away from the heating elements in your dishwasher.

Pyrex is a Versatile Kitchen Tool

If you follow the best practices and safety precautions your Pyrex should last a really long time.

Even though I have been using Pyrex for years, I was still surprised by some of the things that I learned while reading through the FAQ’s and usage instructions.

I definitely recommend that you read through these to learn how to use your Pyrex safely.

Generally, you should avoid sudden temperature changes – like freezer to oven or oven to freezer, don’t add liquids to hot foods, or place hot Pyrex dishes on cold surfaces.

Never microwave empty Pyrex or expose your Pyrex to a direct heat source or a concentrated source of heat (like microwave popcorn).

And avoid using Pyrex that has been compromised – chipped, broken, or engraved Pyrex should be replaced.

I love my Pyrex dishes and use them to microwave food all the time – they are an important part of my kitchen.