Is It Safe to Use the Self-Cleaning Feature on My Oven?

Activating the self-cleaning function on your oven might seem like a convenient shortcut—after all, it’s built into the appliance for a reason. But does that mean it’s guaranteed to be safe? Think again.

The safety of self-cleaning ovens is still a bit of a gray area. While most models are designed to be safe, there have been enough reports of issues to raise some concern. Different brands and oven models come with varying quality and safety features, so not all self-cleaning systems are created equal.

Ovens with self-cleaning functions are engineered to withstand the extreme temperatures reached during cleaning cycles. That said, there are still steps you can take to ensure the process is as safe as possible.

How Does the Self-Cleaning Feature on Your Oven Operate?

Ovens with self-cleaning capabilities typically use two main methods in tandem: a high-heat cycle and a steam cycle.

"A self-cleaning oven utilizes either extreme heat or steam to eliminate leftover food and grease. Steam cycles are for light cleaning in between major cleanings, while high-heat cycles are designed for tougher buildup, with varying lengths depending on the level of residue," explains appliance manufacturer Whirlpool.

The high-heat cycle reaches temperatures around 800 degrees Fahrenheit (426 degrees Celsius) to burn off grease and crumbs that have accumulated. This cycle typically runs for 3-5 hours, depending on how dirty the oven is.

If you choose the steam cleaning cycle, your oven will heat up to approximately 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius), and the cleaning process will take around an hour.

Why Should You Avoid Using the Self-Cleaning Oven Feature?

While there are benefits to using your oven's self-cleaning function, there are also some drawbacks to consider.

It Could Damage Key Parts of Your Oven

Activating the self-cleaning feature can potentially harm various parts of your oven. The high temperatures used during the cycle can overheat wires and control buttons, or cause essential components like the door lock, thermostat, and control panel to warp or malfunction.

You shouldn't rely on this function too frequently. A deep clean is only necessary every 3 to 6 months, depending on how often you use the oven. In the meantime, the steam cycle will help maintain cleanliness.

It Can Release Harmful Smoke and Fumes

The extreme heat used during the self-cleaning cycle is designed to burn off food particles, crumbs, and spills. However, any remaining food or liquids—especially sugary ones—can create smoke and fumes that escape the oven and fill the kitchen. Make sure to turn on your range hood and open a window or door for ventilation.

Even when using the self-cleaning feature, you still need to do a bit of preparation. While we all hope for a spotless oven with just the press of a button, you'll need to do some work beforehand. Wipe out crumbs and excess grease before starting the self-cleaning cycle to minimize the buildup that needs to be burned off.

How to Safely Clean Your Oven

Before activating the self-cleaning function, ensure you clear off the stove top. Use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the interior, and remove the racks. Once that's done, initiate either the steam or high-heat cleaning cycle.

For a thorough hand-cleaning of your oven, we recommend a classic method involving baking soda, vinegar, and a little bit of elbow grease. As for a cleaning schedule, consider how often your oven is in use.

If you regularly use your oven to cook meals like Friday-night lasagna, casseroles, or baked goods, aim for a deep clean every three months. For ovens that are used less frequently, a deep cleaning every six months should suffice.

If your oven has a steam-cleaning function, it's wise to use it regularly. This will help maintain a cleaner oven over time, which not only prolongs the lifespan of the appliance but also makes it safer to use.