I like Pyrex. It’s solid, dependable and versatile. Pyrex products have rarely disappointed me. That’s why when I saw the Pyrex 14-piece Bowl Set in Kohl’s, I had to purchase it. The combination of glass bowls with lids seemed a perfect fit for my kitchen.


Peeking Inside the Box

This set of bowls and lids came packaged in a heavy-duty cardboard box. Inside the box, the bowls were nested in pieces of stiff paper, separating one glass bowl from the other. Two pieces of cardboard helped keep the bowls in place. The paper wasn’t a lot of protection; however, it worked since all these bowls arrived in perfect condition.

The set consists of 14-pieces: 4 small bowls with lids, 2 medium bowls with lids, and 1 large bowl with lid. The large bowl held the medium-size lids. The medium bowls held the small lids, and the largest lid rested atop them all. Each bowl comes with its own lid.


Describing the Bowls

These round bowls are constructed of smooth, clear glass with thick walls and have flat bottoms. The capacity is embossed on the bottom of each bowl (2 cups/470ml – 1 qt/950 ml – 1.75 qt/1.65 L). Also on the bottom of each bowl along with the Pyrex logo is printed: Microwave Safe, No Broiler, No Stovetop – Made in the USA.

The dark blue lids are slightly recessed on the top a 1/2" in from the outside edge. The rim is also just shy of being a 1/2" deep. On the top of each cover is printed: For Refrigerator, Freezer and Microwave Use – Do Not Use Cover in Conventional Oven – Dishwasher Top Rack Only. The print is navy blue on navy blue, which is difficult to read in dim light.

It’s interesting to note that even though the covers say they are for refrigerator, freezer and microwave use ... the box says: “Plastic covers for Microwave and Storage use only.” Maybe the manufacturer figures that “storage space” translates into refrigerator and freezer use.


Bowl Dimensions

4 small bowls – 4 3/4" diameter, 2 1/4" deep (holds 2 cups)

2 medium bowls – 5 3/4" diameter, 2 3/4" deep (holds 4 cups)

1 large bowl – 7" diameter, 3 1/2" deep (holds 7 cups)


My Experiences

Some wonderful features of Pyrex are that the glass doesn’t warp, stain or absorb odors. The smooth finish of these bowls makes them easy to clean, too. I use a bit of Dawn dishwashing liquid and a non-abrasive sponge. I have never put these bowls or lids in the dishwasher. Rarely when food sticks to the containers, I let them soak in the sink a bit before wiping them with a sponge. I’ve never had a problem cleaning the bowls and lids by hand.

The manufacturer recommends that the lids be washed before using them. I find the lids a very tight fit, and they are still a bit tight even after a month of use. I know from my Tupperware product purchases that washing lids in warm water will often loosen them a bit so that they fit easier on containers. So far, these Pyrex lids haven’t loosened that much. Use care to remove the covers from the bowls so that the contents does not spill.

One nice feature about these lids fitting so well is that liquid does not slop out of the bowls. The covers seal the contents, and nothing seeps out between the lid and the glass rim of the container.

When storing wet foods in the bowls, the lids can develop condensation on the side facing inside the bowl. I have never used these bowls in the freezer, but the manufacturer says to allow the dish and cover to defrost for 15 minutes after removing them from the freezer. I’m also careful when using anything that might stain the plastic lids and immediately wash the lids in warm soapy water if there is a possibility that the bowl contents might stain the covers. It’s interesting that the manufacturer states: “To prevent permanent stains and blisters, avoid reheating foods high in oil, fat, sugar or tomatoes.”

I have never used the covers in a microwave. I have other bowls with microwave safe lids that I prefer to use. These Pyrex bowls are primarily used in the kitchen as storage, in the refrigerator, or on a table holding snack foods.

These bowls are versatile and serve many uses in the kitchen and at get-togethers. Fill the bowls with nuts, candies, chips or dip. They look especially festive displaying colorful M&M’s and the different textures of mixed nuts. In a pinch, these containers serve as holders for dry ingredients being added to baked goods. When I have leftover Chinese food, these bowls always come in handy. It’s great being able to peer through the clear glass sides to instantly see what is inside each container.

My dad is fond of pickled beets. Not my favorite dish, but in moderation, my dad enjoys this treat. He is also a frugal man. His favorite pickled beet recipe is to save the pickle juice from a bottle of Bread & Butter pickles. Pour the juice into the medium-size Pyrex bowl, being careful not to fill it too full. Open a can of sliced beets and drain the beet juice out of it. Add the beets to the bowl of pickle juice. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 24-48 hours. The longer the beets marinate in the pickle juice the better flavor they will have. My dad has trouble waiting the full 48 hours!


Likes

* Pyrex is durable
* Smooth glass is easy to clean
* Clear glass allows visibility of contents
* Lids fit tight to the bowl; no spills
* Refrigerator, Freezer & Microwave safe
* Easy to clean
* Dishwasher safe


Purchasing

I bought these bowls at Kohl’s on sale for $16.99 (a terrific deal!). Kitchenetc.com sells this set for $19.99.


Summary

I highly recommend the Pyrex 14-piece Bowl Set. All three sizes of the bowls come in handy. It would be wonderful if they included another of the large-size bowls ... but I’m not being picky. It’s also wonderful that lids are included for every bowl. This set is a great value and is often used. No matter how fancy plastic products become, glassware is sometimes the only way to go!

I hope you have found this review useful.

Enjoy your day,
Dawn
http://dlstewart.com


Additional Information

Corningware, Pyrex and Pyrex Portables are registered trademarks of Corning Incorporated, used under license by World Kitchen, Inc.

World Kitchen Inc. Help Center
P.O. Box 7369
Endicott, NY 13761

Toll-free Phone #: 800-999-3436
www.pyrexware.com

Warranty

Full Two-Year Warranty Pyrex Ovenware – WKI promises to replace any Pyrex brand glass item that breaks from oven heat within two years from date of purchase.

Full One-Year Warranty Parts/Accessories – Any non-glass part/accessory with a manufacturing defect will be replaced without charge within one year from date of purchase.

The above warranties do not cover damage resulting from misuse, negligence, accidental breakage from impact, or attempted repair.

Pyrex asks for the product to be returned to them. Also, hold onto your receipt.


Please read my other reviews:

Kitchenetc.com (online store)

Farberware Cutting Board

Calphalon Flat Whisk

Rubbermaid Stain Shield Round 1.1 Quart Storage Container

Rubbermaid Space-Saver Dish Drainer

Sterilite Ultra Storage Drawer

West Bend Automatic Egg Cooker

Braun Coffee Grinder (and flax seed)

Gemco Nut Mill

Le Creuset Bean Pot with recipe

GE Top Freezer Refrigerator

Maytag Gemini Double Oven Range


Copyright 2004 Dawn L. Stewart

Recommended: Yes