Why do oven doors sometimes shatter into a thousand pieces? It boils down to the kind of glass used and any imperfections within that glass. Most modern ovens feature tempered soda lime glass, known for being less tolerant to rapid changes in temperature, or the more robust borosilicate glass.

Yet, even these sturdy glass types aren’t flawless. Tiny imperfections, like nickel sulfide inclusions, can lead to spontaneous breakages, especially during high heat cycles such as those in self-cleaning modes. To minimize such risks, it’s advisable to handle the oven doors gently. Avoid banging them shut or leaning heavy items against them. It’s also wise to ensure that your dishes inside don’t touch the glass, reducing added pressure points.

By following simple guidelines like using soft cleaning tools and avoiding severe temperature fluctuations, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of your oven door shattering. These straightforward steps help keep your kitchen a safer place while ensuring your oven remains in excellent working condition.