by Mel R

Created on: March 06, 2009   Last Updated: March 07, 2009

If you have come into possession of a self cleaning oven without the benefit of an instruction book, using it for the first time can be unnerving. It should be, as you probably know, these ovens clean themselves using extreme heat. Don't let that put you off, self cleaning ovens are easy to use and safe.

It is best to get a hold of an instruction manual for your oven, if possible you should do so. Not only will it have instructions for the safe use of the self cleaning cycle, it will provide information on other features you might no even be aware of. It will help you get the most out of your oven. Many manufactures have instruction books available on-line.

-Use your favorite search engine to find you oven's manufactures website. Don't search for Sears or Lowes, search for Whirlpool or Amana.

-Look around the site for manuals. Make sure you have located the manual for your specific model. You should be able to find the model and serial number inside the door of the oven.

-If you don't find a manual for your specific oven, find the contact section and email the manufacturer with your oven's model and serial numbers, and ask for one.

-When you have the correct manual, keep it in a safe place for future reference. It may come in handy in the future.

If you cannot find a manual, you can still use the self cleaning cycle if you follow a few general instructions. All self cleaning cycles work basically the same way, older ovens will have a lock that must be employed, and may or may not have a timer. Newer ovens are self locking and will complete the cleaning cycle automatically. There are some things that you should always do on any oven when running the self cleaning cycle.

-If you have children in the house, keep them away from the oven as it cleans. The high temperatures can make the outside of the oven hot to the touch.

-If you have a pet bird, move them to another part of the house. Health issues in birds have been reported from fumes arising from the use of self cleaning ovens. You should check with your veterinarian before cleaning your oven for further precautions.

-Remove the racks, broiler pan, and any other objects that are in the oven. The heat of the self cleaning cycle can damage these.

-Any grime, crumbs, or stains, on the area outside of the gasket won't be cleaned in the cycle, so it's best to clean this first. Use hot water and a cleaner with a mild abrasive on these areas, being careful not to scratch the finish.

-Also clean the seal itself, being careful to dry it in order to ensure a good seal when you run the self cleaning cycle.

-Wipe up any on the door or in the bottom of the oven that will loosen easily. These won't be completely dissolved by the heat of the self cleaning cycle and could cause smoking as the oven cleans.

Now, if your oven has an automatic cycle, and locks itself, just press the "self clean" button. The cycle will take anywhere from two to four hours.

If your oven has a manual lock, make sure it is engaged before starting the cycle.

If your oven requires the use of a timer, set it for the following-

-light soil 1 to 1 and 1/2 hours

-medium soil 2 and 1/2 hours

-heavy soil 3 and 1/2 hours

Do not open the oven door until at least one half hours after the cycle has completed, if you are using the manual timer. The oven retains heat, and you could be burned.

On any models after the self cleaning cycle is complete, and the oven has cooled, wipe out any residual ash with a damp cloth. If you find white spots remaining, wipe them away with a 1 to1 vinegar and water solution.

Your oven is now clean.

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