Yes, glass can break if you put it in the freezer, especially if it is not designed to withstand low temperatures. The main reason glass can break in the freezer is due to thermal stress.
When you place glass in the freezer, it becomes very cold, and glass is a poor conductor of heat. If the glass has any imperfections or microfractures, the extreme temperature difference between the cold glass and the surrounding warmer air can cause uneven expansion and contraction of the material. This creates stress within the glass.
If the stress becomes too much for the glass to handle, it can lead to cracks or even shattering. This can happen while the glass is in the freezer or when it is removed and exposed to warmer temperatures.
To safely use glass in the freezer, consider the following tips:
Use freezer-safe glass containers: Look for glass containers labeled as "freezer-safe" or "thermal shock-resistant." These are designed to withstand the temperature changes in the freezer.
Allow for thermal expansion: If you're using a glass container to store liquids in the freezer, leave some extra space at the top to allow for any expansion that may occur as the liquid freezes.
Gradual temperature changes: Avoid placing hot glass directly into the freezer or transferring frozen glass to a hot environment. Gradual temperature changes can help reduce thermal stress.
Avoid thick glass: Thin glass is generally more resistant to thermal stress than thick glass.
Insulate glass containers: If you're concerned about extreme temperature changes, wrap the glass container in a towel or place it inside a box before placing it in the freezer.
If you're unsure about whether a particular glass item is safe for the freezer, it's best to consult the manufacturer's guidelines or choose an alternative freezer-safe material like plastic or stainless steel for freezing food and liquids.