Glass top stoves are sleek, modern, and a favorite for many home chefs. But to keep them looking pristine and functioning at their best, choosing the right cookware is crucial. The wrong pots and pans can cause scratches, reduce heating efficiency, or even damage your stove. So, what’s the best cookware for glass top stoves?
Firstly, What’s the Difference Between Electric and Induction Glass Stovetops?
At a glance, electric and induction glass stovetops may look the same, but they operate in very different ways. Electric stovetops use radiant heat—electric coils beneath the glass surface heat up and transfer heat to the cookware through the glass. In contrast, induction stovetops use electromagnetic energy to directly heat the cookware itself, which makes them faster, more energy-efficient, and safer to the touch, as the surface stays relatively cool. However, this difference in heating method leads to an important question: what kind of cookware actually works on an induction stovetop? Since induction cooking relies on magnetic fields, only certain types of pots and pans are compatible—and that's where choosing the right cookware becomes essential.
Related: Induction vs Electric Cooktop
What to Look for in Glass Stovetop-Friendly Cookware
When choosing cookware for a glass stovetop, the key is to prioritize materials and designs that protect the smooth surface while delivering even, efficient heating. Most cookware types are compatible with glass-top stoves, but induction models require a bit more attention—only magnetic materials work, so it’s best to check for compatibility with a simple magnet or by reviewing the manufacturer's notes. Regardless of stove type, always opt for cookware with a flat, smooth bottom that aligns well with your burner size to ensure stable contact and eliminate cold spots during cooking.
Avoid using glass or stoneware cookware, as these materials can scratch the glass surface and aren’t suitable for induction. Heavier cookware like cast iron is induction-compatible and performs well, but its rough texture and weight can also cause scratches, so it’s up to you whether durability is worth a few cosmetic scuffs over time.
For those who prefer nonstick cookware (and who doesn’t love an easy cleanup?), it’s important to make sure the base is flat and induction-compatible if needed. But beyond the base, there’s another key consideration: what’s the best nonstick coating for cookware? Not all coatings are created equal—and some are much healthier and more durable than others.
What is the Best Non-stick Coating for Cookware?
When it comes to non-stick cookware, there are several types of coatings available on the market today. The most common is PTFE, best known by the brand name Teflon, which offers slick performance but has come under scrutiny for potential health risks at high temperatures. There are also silicone-based coatings, which are safe but tend to wear down quickly, and anodized aluminum, which is durable but not entirely non-stick. Increasingly popular are ceramic coatings, which are praised for being free of harmful chemicals and more eco-friendly.
Among these, the sol-gel ceramic non-stick coating is widely regarded as the best. This advanced technology involves turning a liquid "sol" into a solid "gel" coating, which is then cured to create a smooth, durable, and highly effective non-stick layer. Not only does it provide excellent food release, but it also avoids the use of PTFE, PFOA, lead, or cadmium, making it a safer and more sustainable choice for modern kitchens. It’s proven to last up to 37 times longer than standard ceramic non-stick pans, which typically wear out after just 2-3 years of use.
How Long Does Non-Stick Cookware Last?
The lifespan of non-stick cookware largely depends on the type of coating, how often it’s used, and how well it’s cared for.
Traditional PTFE-coated pans typically last around 2 to 3 years with regular use, while cheaper non-stick options may wear out even sooner.
In contrast, sol-gel ceramic non-stick coatings tend to offer improved durability and longevity. This advanced technology uses a process that transforms a liquid "sol" into a gel-like substance, which is then cured into a solid ceramic layer. The result is a strong, chemical-free coating that resists wear and tear better than many conventional non-stick surfaces. With proper care—such as avoiding metal utensils, using moderate heat, and hand-washing—sol-gel ceramic cookware can easily last 3 to 5 years or more, all while maintaining its excellent non-stick performance and safe, toxin-free composition.
Cleaning and Caring for a Glass Stovetop
Glass stovetops look sleek and modern, but they require a bit of extra care to keep them looking their best. Always wait until the surface cools completely before cleaning. For everyday messes, a soft cloth or sponge with warm soapy water will do the trick. For tougher stains, use a non-abrasive stovetop cleaner and a scraper specifically designed for glass cooktops—never use steel wool or harsh scrubbers, as they can scratch the surface. Regularly wiping down the surface after each use helps prevent buildup and keeps your stovetop shiny and smooth.
How to Get Burnt Plastic off Glass Stove Top?
Accidentally melting plastic on your glass stovetop can be alarming, but it’s fixable. First, turn off the stove and allow the surface to cool completely. Then, place ice cubes in a sealed plastic bag over the melted plastic to harden it. Once it’s brittle, gently scrape it off with a razor blade or stovetop scraper held at a 45-degree angle.
How to Clean Non-stick Cookware?
To extend the life of your non-stick cookware—especially ceramic-coated pieces—gentle cleaning is key. Always let the pan cool before washing, then clean it with a soft sponge or cloth using warm, soapy water. Avoid abrasive pads or harsh cleaners, as they can damage the coating. If there’s stubborn residue, soak the pan in warm water for a few minutes before gently wiping it clean.
Ciarra's Testing
Based on some testing standards and comparisons, we developed Ciarra Beyond cookware.
Heating Performance: We evaluated how evenly the cookware heated by searing scallops to check for uniform browning, observing whether omelets came out with a perfect yellow color, and monitoring for any boil-overs. Cookware that demonstrated even, effortless heating received higher scores.
Durability: We placed frying pans in the oven and conducted thermal shock tests, then inspected the cookware for warping or damage. Cookware that withstood the tests and remained in perfect condition earned a full 5 out of 5.
Design & Ease of Cleaning: To assess how easy the cookware is to clean, we deliberately overcooked rice and left burnt food on the surface. Cookware that could be cleaned easily with just warm, soapy water received higher ratings.
Ciarra’s Beyond Cookware
Ciarra’s Beyond cookware is as impressive in performance as it is in appearance—Instagram-worthy and well worth the buzz. With a sleek silhouette and a variety of vibrant colors, it looks stunning on any stovetop and delivers outstanding cooking results. The aluminum core, combined with a mineral-based ceramic coating, ensures quick, even heat distribution and an excellent nonstick surface. Free from PTFE (commonly found in Teflon), PFOA, lead, and cadmium, it's a healthier choice for everyday cooking.
The stainless steel handles are securely riveted, giving you a firm and confident grip when moving pots and pans on or off the stove. In our tests, Ciarra’s nonstick coating consistently performed beautifully—ideal for sautéing vegetables, frying eggs, searing meat, cooking rice, and simmering sauces with minimal effort. These pans heat evenly and retain temperature well at low to medium settings.
We did notice a few small drawbacks: the straight sides can make pouring more difficult, and the handles can become hot during use.
That said, the pans are compatible with nearly all cooktops—including induction—and are oven-safe up to 450°F, giving you the flexibility to finish dishes in the oven. The set includes a 10.2-inch fry pan, a 3-quart saucepan with lid, a 4.5-quart sauté pan with lid, and a 6.5-quart Dutch oven.
To keep the ceramic coating in top condition, hand-washing is recommended—but we've found that clean-up is a breeze with just warm water and dish soap.
And with the recent event discount, a set of four pieces is only $199
FAQs
Can Induction Cookware be Used on Gas Stove?
Yes, induction cookware can absolutely be used on a gas stove—as long as it’s made with materials that are safe for open flame, like stainless steel or cast iron. Ciarra’s induction-compatible cookware, for example, features a durable construction with an aluminum core and a ceramic-coated exterior that holds up well under direct heat. It’s designed to be versatile, working not only on induction cooktops but also on gas, electric, and radiant stovetops. So if you're switching between cooking surfaces, Ciarra’s cookware makes that transition seamless.
Is the Coating on CIARRA Cookware a Sol-gel Ceramic Non-stick Coating?
Yes, the coating on CIARRA cookware is indeed a sol-gel ceramic non-stick coating. This advanced technology offers excellent non-stick performance without relying on harmful chemicals like PTFE or PFOA. It provides a durable, mineral-based ceramic surface that’s not only easy to clean but also safe and eco-friendly. Thanks to the sol-gel process, CIARRA cookware delivers smooth, even cooking and long-lasting quality—perfect for anyone looking for healthier and more sustainable cookware.
Can You Use Cast Iron Skillets on Glass Top Stoves?
Yes, you can use cast iron skillets on glass top stoves—but with caution. While cast iron heats evenly and holds heat well, it has a rough, heavy base that can potentially scratch or even crack the smooth glass surface if dragged or dropped.
Can Induction Cookware Go in the Oven?
Yes, many induction cookware sets are oven-safe—just be sure to check the specific temperature limits. Ciarra’s cookware is oven-safe up to 450°F, thanks to its solid build and stainless steel riveted handles that can handle high heat without warping or degrading. This makes it ideal for recipes that start on the stovetop and finish in the oven, like seared meats or baked pasta dishes. Always double-check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure your specific pan can safely go from stovetop to oven.