The Basis of the Cleaning Process in Self-Cleaning Ovens

Preparation

• Before running the self-cleaning cycle, wipe out any visible grease or loose food debris with a damp cloth. Wipe up acidic or sugary spills, such as ketchup or pie filling as they occur--these products can permanently damage the oven's surface. Wipe down the rim around the door; the self-cleaning cycle won't clean this area. Do not move or clean the gasket that seals the door, however. Remove all racks and any bakeware stored in the oven. Some manufacturers recommend leaving the racks in the oven during cleaning, but they can lose their shine or finish and become difficult to slide in and out during regular use; if this happens, rub the racks with vegetable oil.

Cleaning

• Engage the self-cleaning process and allow it to run an entire cycle. A typical cycle runs for three hours, although most ovens have a feature that allows you to adjust the time, increasing it for heavily stained ovens or decreasing it for light cleaning. Do not touch the oven door during cleaning--it becomes very hot. Keep small children away from the oven during cleaning as well.

Post-Cleaning Care

• Allow the oven to cool for two to three hours once the cycle is complete. Open the oven door and wipe out any ashes with a damp cloth. Do not clean the oven while it is still hot; you may burn yourself or cause damage to the oven. Do not put aluminum foil in the bottom of a self-cleaning oven to catch debris or use commercial oven cleaning chemicals or sprays on it.

Tips

• Run the self-cleaning cycle of the oven on a warm, clear day so you can open the windows to provide good ventilation. Work outside or in another part of the house if possible to avoid lung irritation from any smoke that is generated. The fumes from self-cleaning ovens can injure or even kill birds in indoor cages; remove any birds to another room. Open the windows in the room and close the door.