How to Use Self

One of the most dreaded chores in the kitchen is cleaning the oven, especially an oven that has been neglected after several boil-overs and spills. But, you're in luck if you have an oven with a self-clean feature. Using the self-clean cycle is simple—all it takes is a small amount of prep time, some patience, and a quick final wipe-down.

The self-clean cycle uses extremely high heat (around 880 degrees F.) to decompose food residue and oils. The soil is reduced to ash that you remove when the cycle is complete. The oven is locked during the cleaning, which lasts from two to five hours, depending on the soil level and model of the oven.

Typically, the recommendation for running the self-clean cycle is every six months, maximum. How often you need to use it depends on the frequency of oven use and your cooking and cleaning habits.

Always consult your oven model's use and care guide. If you have lost the operating manual, most are available online from the manufacturer. Self-clean cycles can last from one to five hours so plan to do the cleaning during times you will not need the oven. The oven door will lock. Do not attempt to stop the cycle once it has begun or open the door until the cycle is complete.

Because of the high temperature, the self-clean cycle produces smoke and fumes as it incinerates the soil in the oven. It is important to keep the kitchen well-ventilated during the process to help clear smoke and odors. Do not block the oven vents so air can move freely.

Some birds are extremely sensitive to the fumes released during a self-clean cycle. They should be removed from the room and placed in a well-ventilated space. The self-cleaning cycle produces VOCs, which can also cause issues for people with sensitivities, allergies, and respiratory problems including COPD.