This Minecraft guide covers everything you need to know about netherrack. Learn where to find it, how to mine it, and what you can use it for.
Netherrack is a rock-like block found in the Nether. You can’t craft it, but you can mine it and use it for building or smelting into Nether Bricks. It’s one of the most common blocks you’ll run into if you explore the Nether.
Finding Netherrack in Creative Mode
Minecraft Java Edition (PC/Mac)
In Creative mode, netherrack is easy to find in the inventory menu:
| Platform | Versions | Menu Location |
|---|---|---|
| Java Edition (PC/Mac) | 1.8 to 1.19.2 | Building Blocks |
| Java Edition (PC/Mac) | 1.19.3+ | Natural Blocks |
Mining Netherrack in Survival Mode
To get netherrack in Survival, you need to travel to the Nether and mine it. Here’s how:
1. Get to the Nether
Build a Nether portal and light it with flint and steel. Once you step through, you’re in the Nether. You’ll see netherrack everywhere as the main block type.
Tip: If you’re having trouble seeing, drink a Potion of Night Vision or bring torches.
2. Use a Pickaxe
You need a pickaxe to mine netherrack. Any type works:
- Wooden Pickaxe
- Stone Pickaxe
- Iron Pickaxe
- Diamond Pickaxe
- Golden Pickaxe
- Netherite Pickaxe
3. Mine the Block
Hold your pickaxe and click on the netherrack block. Keep clicking until it breaks. The controls vary by platform:
- Java Edition (PC/Mac): Left click and hold
- Pocket Edition (PE): Tap and hold
- Xbox 360 and Xbox One: Hold RT
- PS3 and PS4: Hold R2
- Nintendo Switch: Hold ZR
- Windows 10 Edition: Left click and hold
- Education Edition: Left click and hold
4. Collect Your Netherrack
Once the block breaks, grab the item before it disappears. It’ll go into your inventory.
Netherrack Item Info
Minecraft Java Edition
Here’s the technical info you need:
| Item Name | Minecraft ID | ID Number | Data Value | Stack Size | Versions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Netherrack (minecraft:netherrack) | minecraft:netherrack | 87 | 0 | 64 | 1.8 to 1.12 |
| Netherrack (minecraft:netherrack) | minecraft:netherrack | 87 | N/A | 64 | 1.13 to 1.19.3+ |
Give Command
You can spawn netherrack with commands. Use one of these depending on your version:
For Java Edition 1.13 and newer:
/give @p netherrack 1
For Java Edition 1.8 to 1.12:
/give @p netherrack 1 0
What You Can Make with Netherrack
Netherrack is useful for a few things. The main use is smelting it into Nether Bricks, which are used for Nether Brick blocks and other Nether-themed builds. You can also just use netherrack as a building block if you like the look of it.