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.

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?

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.