9 Dangerous Glass Stovetop Habits You Should Never Do

9 Dangerous Glass Stovetop Habits You Should Never Do – And What to Do Instead

Glass stovetops bring sleek, modern appeal to your kitchen—but behind that smooth surface lies a delicate appliance that needs a bit of extra care. Whether you’ve just had one installed or you’ve been cooking on glass for years, it’s important to know that some everyday habits could be damaging your stovetop or even posing serious safety risks.

Here are 9 dangerous glass stovetop habits you should never do, and smarter alternatives to help protect your appliance (and your wallet).

⚠️ 1. Dragging Heavy Pots Across the Surface

Why it’s dangerous: Dragging cookware—especially cast iron or stainless steel—can leave scratches, and over time, those scratches can weaken the glass and even cause cracks.

✅ Do this instead: Lift pots and pans when moving them from burner to burner. It takes a second, and your stovetop will thank you!

⚠️ 2. Using the Wrong Cookware

Why it’s dangerous: Uneven or warped pans don’t make full contact with the glass, leading to hot spots, poor heat transfer, and possible cracking.

✅ Best cookware: Flat-bottomed pans made from aluminum, stainless steel, or ceramic-coated materials work best. Avoid glass, cast iron (unless enameled), and stoneware.

⚠️ 3. Letting Spills Burn Onto the Surface

Why it’s dangerous: Burned-on food can stain the glass and become incredibly hard to remove. Sugar-based spills (like caramel or syrups) can etch the surface permanently.

✅ What to do instead: Clean spills ASAP—while the stove is cool—with a soft cloth and stovetop-safe cleaner. For burnt-on messes, use a razor scraper at a 45° angle gently.

⚠️ 4. Turning Heat to High Too Quickly

Why it’s dangerous: Glass expands with heat. Rapid temperature changes can cause thermal shock, which may result in cracking the glass.

✅ Use gradual heat: Start with low or medium heat and increase slowly. Glass stovetops are designed for steady, even heating, not flash frying.

⚠️ 5. Standing or Leaning on It

Why it’s dangerous: It might seem sturdy, but leaning on your stovetop or using it as a counter can lead to stress fractures—especially if you place heavy items on it.

✅ Keep off the top: Treat it like glass (because it is!)