Oven Cleaning 101 and Self-Cleaning Breakdown - Home & Texture
Kitchen Clean Oven

How the "Clean Oven" Feature Actually Works

Master oven maintenance once and for all.

March 25, 2024 at 2:00 PM PST

If you have found yourself scratching your head over how to clean your oven, you’re not alone! It doesn’t help that they can get crusty and dirty in the blink of an eye. Dried on cheese, drips of sauce and crispy crumbs can accumulate quickly but, luckily, many ovens have a button labeled “Clean Oven,” aimed to solve the puzzle of cleanliness. Unlike a washing machine or dishwasher though, it doesn’t have water pumps. So, how exactly does it work? And, if you don’t have this feature on your oven, are you doomed to a yucky oven forever? We’ve got all the answers to your burning oven-related questions.

Open oven
Photography Credit: Cottonbro Studio

The Heat is On: High Temperatures to the Rescue

To put simply, the “clean oven” feature boils down to one secret weapon—extreme heat.

When activated, this feature cranks up the temperature inside your oven to levels that would make even the most stubborn grime surrender. Extreme isn’t even putting it likely, we’re talking hot, like temperatures upwards of 800 degrees farenheit hot. That’s enough to turn those pesky spills and stains into ash, which you can then easily wipe away once the cleaning cycle is complete.
The process usually takes around two to six hours, with ovens locking during the process

A Dash of Steam: Harnessing the Power of Vapor

Even then, sometimes, it doesn’t even stop there! Some modern ovens take the cleaning game to the next level by incorporating steam into the mix. Steam is a formidable ally in the battle against baked-on messes, as it helps to soften and loosen even the toughest grime.
So, while your oven is busy blasting away with heat, it’s also introducing a gentle stream of steam to the party. This duo works in perfect harmony to dislodge and dissolve those stubborn stains, leaving your oven sparkling clean and ready for its next culinary masterpiece.

Nice kitchen
Photography Credit: Max Vakhtbovycn

Say Goodbye to Harsh Chemicals: Eco-Friendly Cleaning at Its Finest

Now, here’s the best part – the cleaning feature does all of this without the need for harsh chemicals. This way, you won’t have, to choke on fumes or worrying about toxic residues lingering in your oven.

By harnessing the power of heat and steam, this eco-friendly cleaning method gets the job done effectively and safely. So, not only are you keeping your oven squeaky clean, but you’re also doing your part for the environment. It’s a win-win situation!

Convenience at Your Fingertips: Set It and Forget It

One of the most beautiful things about the cleaning feature is its sheer convenience. This makes it so you don’t have to scrub away for hours. With just the push of a button, you can set your oven to self-clean mode and go about your day. No need to babysit the cleaning process, just sit back, relax, and let your oven work its magic.

But, just as a precaution, it’s a good idea to keep small children or pets out of the kitchen, since it can produce a smell that might irritate little noses.

Baked pizza
Photography Credit: Rene Strgar

Alternative Cleaning Methods: When the “Clean Oven” Feature Isn’t an Option

That all sounds great, but what if your oven doesn’t have this feature. There are alternative approaches you can take. Here’s a few.

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar: A Classic Combo

Mixing baking soda and vinegar creates a powerful cleaning solution that can help tackle tough oven stains. Simply apply the paste to the affected areas, let it sit for a while, then wipe away the grime with a damp cloth.

2. Commercial Oven Cleaners: Quick and Effective

If you’re short on time and elbow grease, commercial oven cleaners can be a lifesaver. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and ventilate the area properly to avoid inhaling any fumes.

3. Professional Cleaning Services: Leave It to the Experts

For oven cleaning tasks that seem too daunting to tackle on your own, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. They’ll have the tools and expertise to get your oven looking like new in no time.




FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM

#homeandtexture

Find us on social for more home inspiration where culture, personal style, and sophisticated shopping intersect to help you create a home where you love to live.