Self-Cleaning Ovens VS Steam Cleaning Ovens

These two types of cleaning options are the most popular methods for cleaning ovens today.

According to most reports, less than half of the consumers who own a self-cleaning oven actually utilize the self-cleaning feature.

Self-Cleaning Ovens:

This type of oven utilized extreme heat to clean the oven; temperatures can reach up to 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme heat allows the residue in the oven to be carbonized and literally turn to ash. The ovens smooth enamel coating makes it very easy to wipe away the left over ash created from the self cleaning cycle. While in the self-cleaning mode the range will become very hot to the touch and you need to make sure to keep kids away. The amount of energy required for this type of cleaning is extremely high and time consuming because the cleaning cycle will last around 4 hours where the oven is unusable until the oven temperature drops to a safe temperature. This cleaning method also gives off a very strong smell that many consumers dislike.

Pros:

• This is a very effective cleaning process that leaves the oven very clean.

Cons:

• Utilizes high energy to clean
• Extreme heat required for the job
• Long processing times
• Undesirable odors / smell from the process

Example:

• GE 27" Built-in Double Convection Wall Oven

 Steam Cleaning Ovens:

Like self-cleaning ovens a steam cleaning oven also utilizes heat to clean but only requires around 250 degrees Fahrenheit to do the job. This type of oven adds water to create steam that helps release the residue from the oven surface. This oven also uses a smooth enamel coating that makes removal of the leftover residue easy to wipe away. The cleaning cycle for this type of oven is usually around 1 hour making it easy to clean with more frequency. 

Pros:

• Very short time required for the cleaning (usually less than 30 minutes)
• No odor / smell
  
• More energy efficient due to utilizing lower temperature to clean
• This is a very effective cleaning process that leaves the oven very clean

Cons:

• Effectively cleans the bottom of the oven but struggles with the walls and back of the oven.
• My preference is the steam option but depending on your desires both have their pros and cons because who really wants to get on their hands and knees and scrub the inside of an oven with toxic chemicals?  

Example:

• Whirlpool 5.0 Cu. Ft. Single Wall Oven

Here is a detailed checklist about the proper way to use the Steam Clean feature:

• Do not use oven cleaners with Steam Clean.

• Use the Steam Clean feature as soon as possible after spills occur. The longer you wait the more difficult it may be to remove.

• Always allow the oven to cool before using the Steam Clean feature

• Do not open the oven door during the cleaning cycle because the water in the bottom is hot.

• Once the Steam cycle is complete, remove all remaining water and debris in the bottom of the oven.

• Wipe any remaining moisture from the oven door interior, oven cavity interior sides.

• For harder stains use a soft brush or nylon scrubber to wipe the oven interior.

Time-Saving Holiday Cleaning Tips

The holidays are a time for family and friends coming together to celebrate the season and enjoy each other’s company. Unfortunately, this also means the holidays can be an often-hectic parade of parties, family dinners, and events that leave you with absolutely no spare time. How do you check all the items off your holiday to-do list and still keep your home presentable for all the guests (both expected and unexpected!) that may be popping by to share a cup of cheer? Follow these quick and easy housecleaning tips to keep your home in tip-top shape no matter what the holiday season throws your way.

Clean in Advance- This may seem like a no-brainier, but it’s worth mentioning that a little advance planning can save you a world of stress on the actual day of a party or dinner in your home. About a week prior to your holiday event, tackle the chores that can be done ahead of time, such as spot-cleaning any stains on your upholstery or walls, steam-cleaning the rugs or dusting the blinds. This leaves you free to do only a few last-minute housekeeping duties on the day of your party, and keeps the house looking tidy in the event of unexpected guests in the meantime.

Follow the 5-Minute Rule- If time has gotten away from you, see how much you can do in 5 minutes. Look at your house through the eyes of your visitors- chances are they aren’t taking in the minor details or running over every surface of your home with a white glove. (If they are, it’s time to find new friends!) Use your 5-minute window to go over surfaces with glass cleaner or furniture polish and a soft cloth, run the vacuum in the major traffic areas such as the living room rug, and wipe down your kitchen countertops. Also take a moment to make sure your bathrooms are clean and presentable with Clorox Wipes and a quick swish of the toilet brush. Boom! Instant clean house!

Grab a Laundry Basket- If it’s getting down to crunch time and you haven’t had any time to pre-clean and organize, don’t worry- just grab a laundry basket and make a general sweep of the areas of the house where guests are likely to congregate. Throw everything that is cluttering up your surfaces into the laundry basket, then stash it in a closet to deal with later. Sure, it’s cheating, but it will maximize your time, cut down on stress, and give you more time to spend with family and friends. Sounds like a win!

At the end of the day, remember that your loved ones are there to see you, not your sparkling clean house. Wishing you a stress-free holiday season!