Usage Guidelines

• CorningWare is safe for baking in conventional and microwave ovens, although some types are not recommended for use under broiler elements. Most CorningWare dishes can be filled with foods, refrigerated or frozen, and placed directly into preheated ovens or microwaves without defrosting. Some styles are appropriate for stovetop cooking at very low temperatures, but foods often stick to the internal surfaces if not regularly stirred or turned.
  
  

Words of Warning

• Although CorningWare is sturdy, it has limitations. Avoid setting hot dishes on wet surfaces, handling them with wet potholders or adding liquid to hot dishes to prevent cracking, breaking or shattering. Do not microwave popcorn in CorningWare or use large dishes to microwave miniscule amounts of food. Overheating oil or butter in CorningWare in the microwave can cause breakage. Discard CorningWare dishes that are badly scratched or have chips or cracks in the surface.
  
  

Maintenance and Storage

• To remove stubborn stains or baked-on food from CorningWare, use nonabrasive cleansers and nylon or plastic scrubbers, as steel wool or copper types will mar the surface. Soak heavily soiled dishes in warm soapy water to loosen debris. Use only wooden, nylon or plastic utensils with CorningWare to avoid scratching. If space permits, store dishes and lids separately. If stacking is necessary, invert the lid on the largest dish and place smaller dishes on top. Nesting CorningWare dishes will scratch them inside and out. However, if nesting is the only option, protect the vessels by lining each dish with a soft cloth or two or three layers of paper towels.
  
  

Differences in CorningWare

• The original CorningWare was made from pyroceramic glass, which allowed the cookware to be safely transferred from freezing temperatures to hot ovens without fear of breakage. In the 1990s, this material was replaced with a less tolerant ceramic substance that was not as adaptable to temperature fluctuations. The company changed hands in the early 2000s, the spelling of the name changed from Corningware to CorningWare, and the original formula was reinstated based on consumer demands. Both types are available online and at cookware specialty retailers and department stores.