How to Protect Glass Top Stove From Cast Iron

Glass top stoves and cast iron cookware are two things that rarely go together! Many like you think both should never be going near each other in the kitchen. Do you know that you are mistaken?

The truth is that you can use modern cast iron cookware safely if you are careful. Besides, you must know how to protect glass top stove from cast iron. Heavy cast iron cookware and glass top stove? Sounds perilous!

We understand the fear. Glass-top stoves look just as sophisticated as they are fragile. People hesitate to use it for fear of cracking, scratching, or staining it.

Truly cast iron cookware can be hefty, and glass top stoves can be very delicate. However, you can solve the issue regarding both if you know the following how-tos.

Prior to that, let’s know why some people avoid using cast iron cookware on glass-top stoves.

Why Do People Avoid Using Cast Iron Cookware on Glass top Stoves?

Let’s dive straight into the crux of the matter. Cast iron cookware and glass top stoves have become a popular addition to the kitchen latterly. But, some people prefer not to mix both.

There is no denying that cast iron cookware is not as easy to use on glass-top stoves as others. Definitely, it has some risks involved. This is why some people suggest not to use cast iron cookware on glass top stoves. Let’s find out about them.

Cast Iron Cookware Can Be Too Heavy

Yes, cast iron cookware is indeed relatively heavier than others. Adding liquid food like stew and soup increases the overall weight of the cookware even more.

When you put it on the glass top stove, it means you are putting a lot of weight on it.

Indeed, glass top stoves are designed to withstand a lot of weight. Maybe it’ll do so without any issues. But, if you somehow drop the cookware, it can crack or permanently damage the stove.

So, this is one of the biggest risk factors of using cast iron on glass top stove. This is why experts suggest using cast iron on ceramic cooktop instead of glass cooktop.

Cast Iron Pots and Pans Somewhat are Larger

Many glass top stove manufacturers suggest not using cast iron cookware because of its size. Yes, the size of cast iron pots and pans is somewhat larger than the glass cooktop.

While cooking in a glass cooktop, the cookware size must not be larger than the burners. The bottom of the cookware cannot be even one inch bigger than the burner. It is essential for uniform heat distribution.

Using a larger cast iron skillet on glass stove will not distribute the heat evenly. As a result, it’ll take longer to cook. When the larger bottom surface traps the heat for long, it may gradually reduce the life of heating elements.

Cast Iron Cookware Has Uneven Bottom

The best cookware for glass top stoves should have a flat bottom. So, the heat can be distributed evenly throughout the flat bottom of the cookware. However, cast iron cookware bottoms mostly have rough spots and burrs.

You can never get a cast iron cookware with a flat bottom. When you put the cast iron on glass cooktop, it is possible to scratch the cooktop. Sometimes it can cause deep scratches, which may lead to permanent discoloration.

Rougher Surface Finish of the Cast Iron Cookware

Usually, the surface of the cast iron cookware is rougher. Not only is the bottom tougher, but also other exterior parts. So putting this more uneven cast iron on glass stove can scratch the glass top.

Some cast-iron cookware comes with a porcelain enamel coating. It makes the surface of the cookware smoother. Also, these will transfer the heat more evenly from the glass top to the cooking surface.

Cast Iron Heats slowly On an Electric stove.

Electric stove with glass top requires time to heat up. When you cook in a cast iron on electric stove, it will take more time than cooking on gas. If you use a cast iron skillet for glass top stove, you’ll need to cook a bit longer.

So, all these reasons denote why some people avoid using cast iron on glass stove top. Still, can you use cast iron on a glass top stove? As said earlier, you can but with some care.

How to Protect Glass Top Stove from Cast Iron?

Keeping pace with the time, you’ve already switched from old burners to modern, sleek glass cooktops. But, you cannot compromise with your love for cast iron cookware. We assure you to assure you that you do not even have to.

You can safely use your favorite cast iron cookware on glass top stove. Just follow the steps below and cook with cast iron on glass stove top without damage.

Lift Your Cast Iron Cookware, Don’t Slide it!

The rule is simple; don’t slide or skid the cast iron on the glass top stove. If you are using cast iron on your favorite glass cooktop, make sure you never slide it. Get yourself into the habit of lifting.

We know that cast iron weighs a lot, and they are tough to lift. Use your both hand every time you want to move cast iron cookware from the glass top stove. As you know, the surface of cast iron is rough.

Sliding it over the glass top stove can ruin the surface of the stove. So, lift it carefully and place it firmly in a smooth motion. Otherwise, it may cause tiny cracks on the cooktop. Make sure you don’t move it around while cooking.

Also, be careful, so you don’t drop the pan. You can use cast iron pots and pans, which have silicone handles instead. The silicone handles make it easier to lift the pan carefully.

Use a Heat Diffuser

The function of a heat diffuser is to diffuse the heat and distribute it evenly throughout the bottom surface. A heat diffuser is usually made of heavy metal. It can protect the glass cooktop from the extra weight and rough surface of the cast iron.

The heat diffuser works as a barrier between the glass top stove and cast iron. It’s a super-safe option for glass top stove cast iron. Also, a heat diffuser will save the delicate glass surface from other heavy and rough cookware.

What you have to be careful about is placing the diffuser over the burner. Then place the cookware over the top of the heat diffuser. Make sure the heat diffuser doesn’t move away from the cooking element.

Above all, keep an eye on the temperature. Set the temperature to medium. Setting the temperature too high can damage the surface of the stove and the heating element. Always heat it with cookware over the stove.

Wash the Bottom of the Cast Iron before Cooking

Every time after cooking or before cooking, wash your cast iron cookware. You can use dish soap and a sponge to clean the leftover food from the cookware. Clean the bottom and cooking surface of the cookware.

The bottom, especially, has black marks or built-up carbonization. When it is burnt on the glass cooktop, it can smear or stain your cooktop. Allow the cookware to air dry before you put it on the glass top stove.

Season the Entire Cast Iron Cookware Regularly

Seasoning is the best way to protect cast iron cookware. It helps prevent rust on the cast iron. But, most people only season the cooking surface of the cast iron pots and pans. Thus, the rest becomes coarse and rough.

When you put on this bumpy cast iron on glass top stove, it can wear away the cooktop.

If you season it with cooking oil, your cast iron will have a carbonized layer. It is basically nonstick. Rub the oil into the cookware after every use and place it upside down in the oven.

This will create a thorough layer of seasoning on the entire pan layer on the cast iron cookware. When it comes to close contact with the stove, there will be minimum chances of scratching.

Buy a Glass Protector

Getting a glass protector can save your glass cooktop from scratches. It is a thin cover to help protect the glass stovetop from scratches. Mostly, glass protectors are made of rubber or silicone.

Glass protectors are slip-resistant and heat-resistant. So, it’ll save your glass cooktop from spills and scratches. Like a heat diffuser, it is a buffer between the stovetop and cast iron.

Keep your Glass Stove Top Clean

A glass stovetop looks shiny and sleek once it arrives. But it does not remain the same as before when you cook. Burnt food, spills, and black residue can smear the glass top quickly. If you do not clean it, the residue will start to build up.

When you use cast iron over this dirty cooktop, it will lead to scratching. So, to enhance the life of your cooktop, you must keep it clean. Wipe it before and after each cooking session.

Wipe the spills as soon as it happens. Otherwise, it’ll start to dry and stain the cooktop. Besides wiping down every day, you must do a deep cleaning at least once a month.

Upgrade your Cast Iron Cookware

The last thing you can do is replace your older cast iron with new cookware. The updated cookware has a sleek and smooth finish compared to the older ones. We suggest investing in new enameled cast iron or well-seasoned cast iron cookware.

How to Prevent Scratches on the Glass Stove Top?

You can prevent any further scratches on the glass cooktop by following the things below.

• Use lightweight pots and pans if possible.
• Use a protector mat to protect your glass cooktop and change it when worn out.
• Clean the food spills right away.
• Never use metal sponges or steel wool to clean the glass cooktop.
• Use glass cleaner to clean the cooktop.
• If you spot any small scratches, fix them with a mixture of baking soda and water. Make sure to use the paste to buff away the scratches gently.
• Do not keep metal utensils like spoons and whisks over the glass cooktop while cooking. It can burn or scratch the surface.
• Never put extra pressure on the cooktop as the glass cooktop cannot withstand heavyweight.
• Do not put the hot cookware directly on the stovetop. The heat from the cookware may discolor the surface of the stovetop.

Bottom Line

So, what do you think? Can you use cast iron on a glass top stove? We believe you can. You now know how to protect glass top stove from cast iron. There shouldn’t be any more hurdles to investing in your favorite cast iron cookware.

Follow the tips above and maintain the shine in your glass top stove. Happy Cooking!