Does Corelle plates break? It’s a question that most homeowners are asking these days. If you’re in the hunt for affordable and durable dinnerware, there’s a good chance that you’ve stumbled upon Corelle plates. These plates are lightweight, dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, and are touted to be almost unbreakable. However, people often wonder if they’re too good to be true. Are Corelle plates indestructible, or can they shatter, chip or scratch like any other plates?
The answer to this question lies in the material that Corelle plates are made of. They’re constructed using Vitrelle glass, a patented material that made its debut during World War II. Vitrelle glass is created by sandwiching three different glass compositions into a single layer. This makes Corelle plates unique from any other type of plate in the market. This technology provides the plates with heightened strength, sturdiness, and resistance to breakage. But despite the incredible strength of Vitrelle glass, does Corelle plates break? The simple answer to this is yes, but there’s more to it than meets the eye.
Breaking or chipping Corelle plates isn’t something you would experience frequently. However, it’s still possible for them to crack or break if they’re mishandled, dropped, or exposed to sudden temperature changes. For instance, if you place a hot plate in cold water, it can shatter. That being said, it’s essential to care for your Corelle plates and to handle them with the same care as any other type of plate. Doing so will ensure their longevity and make sure you get the most out of your investment.
Durability of Corelle plates
Corelle plates are renowned for their durability and long-lasting quality. Made from Vitrelle glass, they are incredibly sturdy and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Vitrelle glass is a unique material that is formed by laminating two types of glass together, making it resistant to chips, cracks, and scratches. Not only are these plates durable, but they are also lightweight and easy to handle, making them perfect for everyday use.
Benefits of Corelle plates
- Resistant to chips, cracks, and scratches
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Perfect for everyday use
Tests conducted on Corelle plates
In a series of tests, Corelle plates were put through their paces to see just how durable they really are. The results were impressive, to say the least. The plates were subjected to extreme temperatures, banged around, and dropped from various heights. Despite all this, they remained intact, with no chips, cracks, or scratches. It was evident that they could take a beating and still come out looking as good as new.
Additionally, Corelle plates are dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe, making them even more convenient for everyday use. They can even be used to serve hot food without worrying about them cracking or breaking.
Comparison with other materials
Compared to other materials like ceramic, porcelain, or stoneware, Corelle plates are far more durable. These materials are prone to chipping and cracking, often forcing users to replace them more frequently. On the other hand, Corelle plates can last for years without showing any signs of wear or tear.
| Material | Durability | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | Prone to chips and cracks | Can be difficult to clean and maintain |
| Porcelain | Prone to chips and cracks | Delicate and requires gentle handling |
| Stoneware | Prone to chips and cracks | Heavy and difficult to handle |
| Corelle | Extremely durable | Easy to clean and maintain |
As can be seen from the table above, Corelle plates outperform other common plate materials in terms of durability and maintenance. They are the perfect choice for those who want a reliable and long-lasting dinnerware set.
Factors that may cause Corelle plates to break
Corelle plates are known for being strong and resistant to breaking. They are made from a unique triple-layered glass material that combines strength and durability with lightweight and practicality. However, just like any other type of dishware, Corelle plates are not invincible. Here are some factors that may cause Corelle plates to break:
- Extreme temperature changes: Corelle plates are made from glass, and like any other glassware, they are sensitive to rapid changes in temperature. Heating or cooling Corelle plates too quickly can cause them to crack or shatter. For example, taking a dish straight from the oven and placing it on a cold countertop could cause it to break. The same is true for putting a cold plate into a hot oven or microwave. Always allow your Corelle plates to come to room temperature before exposing them to extreme temperatures.
- Physical impact: While Corelle plates are shatter-resistant, they are not totally unbreakable. Dropping a Corelle plate on a hard surface or banging it against a solid object can cause it to crack or break. To avoid this, handle your Corelle plates with care, and avoid stacking them too high.
- Age and wear: Over time, Corelle plates may develop tiny cracks or chips that weaken their structure. These imperfections may not be visible to the naked eye but can cause the plate to break under pressure. If you notice any cracks or chips on your Corelle plates, it’s best to replace them with new ones.
How to Prevent Corelle Plates from Breaking
While Corelle plates are designed to be durable and long-lasting, there are some steps you can take to ensure they stay in good condition:
- Handle them with care: Corelle plates are not indestructible, so it’s important to handle them with care. Avoid banging them against hard surfaces, stacking them too high, or using them as cutting boards.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes: To prevent your Corelle plates from cracking or breaking due to temperature changes, always allow them to come to room temperature before exposing them to extreme heat or cold.
- Inspect them regularly: Make sure to inspect your Corelle plates regularly for any cracks or chips that may weaken their structure. If you notice any damage, replace them with new ones before they break.
Conclusion
Corelle plates are a great choice for anyone looking for durable, practical, and stylish dishware. They are designed to resist breaking, but they are not indestructible. By following these tips, you can ensure that your Corelle plates last for years to come:
| Do: | Don’t: |
|---|---|
| Handle with care | Stack too high |
| Avoid extreme temperature changes | Bang against hard surfaces |
| Inspect regularly | Use as cutting boards |
By taking these simple precautions, you can enjoy your Corelle plates for years to come.
Corelle vs. Traditional Ceramic Plates: Which is More Prone to Breakage?
When it comes to kitchenware, there are many brands and materials to choose from. However, the most popular ones are Corelle and traditional ceramic plates. Both have their own features and benefits, but which one is more prone to breakage? Let’s take a closer look.
Corelle Plates
- Corelle plates are made of three layers of glass laminated together, making them lightweight and durable.
- They are resistant to chips and cracks, making them a popular choice for families with young children.
- Corelle plates are also microwave and dishwasher safe, making them a convenient option for everyday use.
Traditional Ceramic Plates
Traditional ceramic plates, on the other hand, are made of clay and fired at high temperatures to create a hard, durable surface. However, they are more prone to breakage due to their rigid structure and lack of flexibility.
While ceramic plates can be stylish and decorative, they require more care and attention when handling to prevent chipping and cracking. They are also not recommended for microwave use since the glaze may contain metallic elements that can cause sparks.
The Verdict
Overall, Corelle plates are more durable and less prone to breakage than traditional ceramic plates. They offer a great balance of style and functionality, making them perfect for daily use in busy households. However, if you’re looking for plates that are more unique and decorative, traditional ceramic plates may be a better option. Just be sure to handle them with care to avoid any damage.
| Factors | Corelle Plates | Traditional Ceramic Plates |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | High | Medium |
| Resistance to Chips and Cracks | High | Low |
| Microwave and Dishwasher Safe | Yes | No (Microwave) |
| Decorative Options | Medium | High |
Ultimately, the best choice of plates will depend on your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize durability and practicality, Corelle plates are the way to go. But if you want more unique and decorative options, traditional ceramic plates may be more suitable. Just remember to handle them with care to avoid any breakage.
Do all Corelle plates have the same level of durability?
Corelle plates have long been known for their durability and strength. They are often touted as the go-to plates for families with young children or those who are looking for plates that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
However, not all Corelle plates are created equal, and some styles and designs may be more durable than others. The durability of a Corelle plate can depend on factors such as the thickness of the plate, the design, and the material used in its construction.
- Thickness: Corelle plates come in different thicknesses, and the thicker the plate, the more durable it will likely be. For example, the Corelle Livingware Winter Frost White plates are relatively thin and lightweight, while the Corelle Impressions Watercolors series is slightly thicker and more heavyweight.
- Design: The design of a Corelle plate can also impact its durability. Plates with simple, solid designs may be more durable than those with intricate patterns or designs. This is because the material used to create the design can weaken the structure of the plate.
- Material: Corelle plates are made of a unique material called Vitrelle glass, which is a tempered glass made from laminated glass layers. This material is known for its strength and durability. However, some Corelle plates are made with additional layers of protection, such as scratch-resistant coatings, which can enhance their durability even further.
In general, most Corelle plates are very durable and resistant to chipping, cracking, and breaking. However, it’s important to note that no plate is completely indestructible. In rare cases, a plate may break or crack due to unforeseen circumstances, such as being dropped from a great height or experiencing sudden fluctuations in temperature.
If you’re looking for the most durable Corelle plates, it’s best to look for those with a thicker design and additional protective layers. Additionally, when using Corelle plates, it’s important to still take care of them as you would any other dish, such as avoiding extreme temperature changes and not using metal utensils that can scratch the surface.
| Factors that impact Corelle plate durability | Examples |
|---|---|
| Thickness of plate | Corelle Impressions Watercolors vs. Corelle Livingware Winter Frost White |
| Design of plate | Simple, solid designs vs. intricate patterns or designs |
| Material used | Vitrelle glass vs. materials with additional layers of protection |
In conclusion, while all Corelle plates are known for their durability, there are certain factors and designs that may impact their strength and ability to withstand wear and tear. Overall, it’s important to care for your Corelle plates properly and be mindful of their limitations to ensure that they last as long as possible.
Tips for preventing Corelle plates from breaking
Corelle plates are known for their lightweight and durable design, which makes them a popular choice for everyday dining as well as outdoor activities. However, as with any type of dinnerware, accidents can happen, and Corelle plates can break under certain circumstances. To prevent your Corelle plates from breaking, here are some tips:
- Handle with care: Although Corelle plates are lightweight, they are still made of glass, which means that they can break under pressure. When handling Corelle plates, be gentle and avoid stacking them too high or dropping them on hard surfaces.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes: Corelle plates are designed to withstand temperature changes, but extreme changes can cause them to break. Avoid placing hot plates on a cold surface or vice versa as this can create thermal shock and lead to cracks or breaks in your plates.
- Store properly: Proper storage is crucial to preventing Corelle plates from breaking. Store them flat and avoid leaning anything heavy on them. You can also use plate separators or dish towels to cushion them while stacking.
These tips will help you prolong the life of your Corelle plates and keep them looking new for longer. However, accidents can still happen, and it’s important to be prepared. If one of your plates does break, be sure to dispose of it properly and replace it with a new one to maintain the balance of your set.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about preventing Corelle plates from breaking:
Q: Are Corelle plates shatterproof?
A: While Corelle plates are designed to be lightweight and durable, they are not indestructible. With proper care and handling, you can prevent your plates from breaking, but accidents can still happen under certain circumstances.
Q: Can you put Corelle plates in the microwave?
A: Yes, Corelle plates are microwave-safe for reheating food. However, avoid using them to cook or bake food in the oven as this can cause thermal shock and lead to cracks or breaks in your plates.
Corelle Plate Replacement
If one of your Corelle plates breaks, you can purchase replacements to ensure that your set remains complete and balanced. Replacement plates are available online and at many retail stores that carry Corelle products. You can also contact the manufacturer to inquire about replacement options.
| Plate Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 6.75-inch Bread and Butter Plate | $4.99 |
| 8.5-inch Luncheon Plate | $6.99 |
| 10.25-inch Dinner Plate | $8.99 |
Replacement prices may vary depending on the size and style of your Corelle plates. Be sure to choose a replacement plate that matches the design and size of your existing set to maintain its overall aesthetic appeal.
What to do with a broken Corelle plate?
Accidents happen, and sometimes your beloved Corelle plate may end up broken. The good news is that there are a few things you can do with your broken Corelle plate instead of just throwing it away.
- Reuse the intact portion: If only a part of your Corelle plate is damaged, consider reusing the unbroken portion as a decorative item. You can use it as a centerpiece or as a base for other decorative items.
- Recycle it: Corelle plates are made of glass-like tempered glass which can be recycled. Check with your local recycling centers to see if they accept tempered glass.
- Repurpose it: You can repurpose the broken plate pieces into a mosaic table or use them as garden markers. Get creative and see what other ways you can use the broken pieces.
If you’re still unsure of what to do with your broken Corelle plate, consider donating it to a thrift store or charity. They may be able to use it for their own purposes or be able to sell it to someone who can use it for their own DIY projects.
| What to do with a broken Corelle plate? | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Reuse the intact portion | Easy to do, no additional cost, saves unbroken portion | Limited use, may not be possible if the broken piece is too large |
| Recycle it | Helps the environment, easy to do, no cost | May not be available in all areas, broken piece must be collected and transported |
| Repurpose it | Creative and unique, can be fun DIY project, helps reduce waste | May require some DIY skills and additional materials, may not be for everyone |
| Donate it | Helps others, supports charity or thrift store | May not be able to donate all broken pieces, the broken piece may go unused |
Regardless of what you choose to do with your broken Corelle plate, it’s important to remember that accidents happen. Don’t stress too much over a broken plate and instead, get creative and have fun with your new DIY project.
Replacements for broken Corelle plates
Accidents happen, and unfortunately, even Corelle plates can break. But fear not, as there are plenty of replacements available. Here are some options:
- Replace the broken plate with the same design: Corelle offers various designs for their plates, so if the broken plate is part of a set, you can easily buy a replacement that looks identical. This option is ideal if you don’t want to splurge on an entirely new set and prefer to maintain consistency in your dinnerware.
- Buy a new set: If you’re ready for a fresh start and don’t mind investing in a new dinnerware set, you can purchase a new set from Corelle or other brands that offer similar lightweight, durable plates. This option is especially practical if you have multiple plates that need replacing, and you want to upgrade your entire collection.
- Mix and match: Alternatively, you can opt to mix and match your plates instead of sticking to a uniform set. This option can be fun and creative, especially if you enjoy eclectic designs and want to add some personality to your tableware collection.
Additionally, there are also some non-Corelle options to consider:
One popular alternative is to switch to ceramic or porcelain plates. While they may not be as lightweight as Corelle plates, they are known for their sturdiness and longevity. Some brands to consider include Mikasa, Lenox, and Royal Doulton.
Another option is melamine plates, which are made from a durable plastic-like material. Melamine plates can look similar to porcelain or ceramic and are often used for outdoor purposes or in households with children. Brands like Gibson and Zak Designs offer a variety of melamine plate designs.
| Brand | Material | Price Range (per plate) |
|---|---|---|
| Corelle | Vitrelle Glass | $5-10 |
| Mikasa | Ceramic or Porcelain | $10-25 |
| Lenox | Ceramic or Porcelain | $15-35 |
| Royal Doulton | Ceramic or Porcelain | $20-45 |
| Gibson | Melamine | $3-7 |
| Zak Designs | Melamine | $2-6 |
Ultimately, the replacement option you choose depends on your personal preference, budget, and lifestyle. Whether you decide to stick with Corelle or explore other dinnerware brands, be sure to invest in plates that are durable, practical, and aesthetically pleasing.
Does Corelle Plates Break? FAQs
1. Are Corelle plates breakable?
Corelle plates are made from a unique material that makes them very durable, chip-resistant, and strong. However, they are not entirely unbreakable.
2. How do I prevent Corelle plates from breaking?
To prevent Corelle plates from breaking, avoid using metal utensils, stacking them too high in the dishwasher, and never expose them to sudden temperature changes.
3. Can I put Corelle plates in a microwave?
Yes, Corelle plates are microwave-safe and can be reheated in the microwave without any damage.
4. Can I put Corelle plates in a dishwasher?
Yes, Corelle plates are dishwasher safe. But, avoid stacking them too high or using abrasive pads in the dishwasher as they may cause scratches or damage.
5. Is Corelle dinnerware covered by a warranty?
Yes, Corelle dinnerware comes with a 3-year limited warranty against breaking and chipping. However, this warranty only applies to normal usage and doesn’t cover damages caused by accidents or misuse.
6. What should I do if my Corelle plate breaks?
If your Corelle plate breaks within the warranty period, contact customer service to get a replacement. But, if the warranty has expired, you can buy Corelle plates online or from a nearby store.
7. Are Corelle plates safe for food?
Yes, Corelle plates are made from non-toxic materials and are safe for food. They are also lead-free and cadmium-free, making them a healthy choice for your family.
Closing Thoughts
We hope we were able to clear up any doubts on whether Corelle plates can break or not. Though they are exceptional in terms of durability, they are not completely unbreakable. However, by following a few simple precautions, you can prolong the lifespan of your Corelle dinnerware. Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to visit us again for more home and kitchen tips and tricks!