Just hit the self-clean mode and itll do the dirty job for you, right?

Some people believe they can get a more thorough clean by hand than by machine.

Others swear by this feature, saying it keeps their ovens interior squeaky clean while saving time and effort.

closeup of modern oven

Ihor Hrelyuk / Getty Images

Why is the oven door locked shut?

Essentially, this feature uses high heat to eliminate difficult stains, food drips, and grease.

This, he notes, initiates a decomposition process in organic substances inside the oven known as pyrolysis.

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Are Self-Cleaning Ovens Effective, Though?

Doty says this feature certainly offers a cleaning advantage for ovens with light to moderate messes.

The smoke and strong odors could irritate them, plus the ovens hot surface could cause serious burns.

The Downsides

Ramirez is one of many cleaning experts who prefers manual cleaning over the self-cleaning setting.

Its inability to handle heavy spills and burnt-on residue well is but one reason.

The extreme temperatures can also cause wear and tear on the ovens components over time.

This, he says, may lead to the need for more frequent repairs or even premature oven replacement.

To make matters worse, weve all heard horror stories of self-cleaning ovens starting a fire.

“Its essential to follow safety instructions carefully and never leave the oven unattended while cleaning, Ramirez advises.

Sudden death in ten psittacine birds associated with the operation of a self-cleaning oven, J.H.

Stoltz, F Galey, B Johnson.