Self-cleaning ovens are a game-changer in the world of kitchen appliances, designed to make the daunting task of oven cleaning significantly easier. Although understandably many people wonder whether a self-cleaning oven really doesn’t need to be cleaned.
The short answer is yes, you can clean a self-cleaning oven, although the self-cleaning feature does a lot of the heavy lifting for you. This guide explores the best methods to ensure your self-cleaning oven stays in tip-top condition while highlighting the benefits of using a professional cleaning service like Ovenu.
What is a Self-Cleaning Oven?
Self-cleaning ovens work by using high temperatures to incinerate food residues, turning them into ash that can be easily wiped away. While this feature saves you time and effort, it isn’t 100% effective at cleaning the oven during use. There are three main types of self cleaning ovens which you may have.
These are:
- Steam cleaning – uses water to create steam that cleans grease and grime from the inside of the
oven. - Catalytic cleaning – a special lining on the inside walls of the oven works to absorb grease and other residue, which is then oxidised into a dust that can easily be swept up.
- Pyrolytic cleaning – use of the oven incinerates grease, leaving behind a fine ash.
For more information on self cleaning ovens, head over to our other blog for more oven cleaning advice.
Tips When Using the Self-Clean Feature
For those with self-cleaning ovens, there are a few considerations to help extend the lifespan of the unit and make sure you’re getting the most out of the self-cleaning option. Firstly, it isn’t recommended that you use the self-clean function on your oven very frequently.
The cycle should be reserved for only significant build-ups (typically every 3-6 months). On top of this, using the self-cleaning function can incur large energy costs. Finally, there can be safety risks associated with the use of self-clean features.
To minimise these potential risks, never attempt to open the oven door during the cleaning cycle, and check there are no large bits of food that could pose a fire hazard.
The best way to make sure your self cleaning oven regains its brand new shine is to get an oven service and clean from a trusted professional.
How to Clean Your Self-Cleaning Oven (Step by Step)
- Review Your Manufacturer’s Instructions: Every self-cleaning oven may have specific instructions regarding its self-cleaning mode. Start by reading the manual to understand your appliance’s particular requirements and recommendations for use.
- Check Your Space is Ventilated: Before starting the cleaning cycle, ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated. Open windows and turn on exhaust fans to help dissipate any smoke or odours that may arise during the self-cleaning process. If you have pets, it’s best to keep them away from the kitchen during this time.
- Strip the Oven: Remove all items from inside the oven, including oven racks, trays, and any other accessories. The high temperatures can dull the finish on the racks, so it’s best to clean these separately in warm soapy water or a vinegar solution.
- Remove Caked-On Food: While the self-cleaning feature does a fantastic job, removing large, caked-on food particles beforehand will enhance its effectiveness. Use a non-scratch scraper to gently lift any stubborn bits off the oven surface.
Keeping the oven clean is important for your overall comfort when using the kitchen. Our oven cleaning services for landlords are designed to make sure ovens are kept in pristine condition over the course of the tenancy, and when new tenants come into a property.
Running the Self-Clean Cycle
Now it’s time to engage in the self-cleaning cycle. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Start the Cycle: Set your oven to the self-cleaning mode. The oven door will automatically lock during the cycle for safety.
- Monitor the Process: Stay nearby and check on the oven occasionally. It can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the model and level of dirtiness.
- Cooling Down: Once the cycle completes, the oven will remain locked until it cools down sufficiently.
- Wipe Down After Cleaning After the self-clean cycle, allow the oven to cool down completely before opening the door. Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the interior surfaces, removing any ash residue left behind.
What if my Oven Glass Door is still dirty?
If the glass door remains dirty after the self-cleaning process, this is nothing to worry about. You can simply clean it using the following method:
- Create a Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste. Better yet, you can swap the water for white vinegar or cleaning vinegar.
- Apply the Paste: Spread the paste over the glass and let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Scrub Away: Use a damp sponge to scrub the paste off. For stubborn stains, consider using an enzyme cleaner specifically designed for kitchen use.
*WARNING* the approaches discussed in this article are not guaranteed to effectively clean any part of the oven. Nor are they recommended as green or safe options for oven cleaning.
Need a Professional Oven Cleaner for Your Self Cleaning Oven?
While self-cleaning ovens simplify maintenance, hiring a professional cleaning service like Ovenu can take your oven’s cleanliness to a much higher standard.
Our trained technicians use eco-friendly products and specialised equipment, ensuring every nook and cranny of your oven is spotless.
Their methodical approach covers areas that self-cleaning modes often miss, including racks, stovetops, and hard-to-reach spots. If you have any questions about our products or services, don’t hesitate to get in touch below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can clean self cleaning ovens manually! Even though self-cleaning ovens are designed to take care of the hard work, manual cleaning is still sometimes necessary.
If you prefer to avoid using the high-heat self-cleaning function, or just want to give your oven an occasional deeper clean, manual cleaning is a great alternative.
Manual cleaning can be especially helpful if you want to avoid high temperatures or are looking for a gentler method. Some ovens also offer features like Aqualift®, which uses low heat and water to clean more quickly and without strong odours.
It’s generally recommended to use the self-cleaning feature every few months, depending on how often you use your oven and how messy it gets. Regular use prevents the build-up of tough stains and residues.
Self-cleaning ovens can get extremely hot, leading to potential risks. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, ensure proper ventilation, and supervise the cleaning process to avoid any hazards.
It’s not advisable to leave your oven unattended while it’s self-cleaning. Stay close by to monitor the process and ensure everything runs smoothly.