FoodBurning in your new oven: The key to long-lasting performance

Burning in your new oven: The key to long-lasting performance

New oven - how to start using it so that it serves you as best and as long as possible? Is it enough to just unpack and clean it? These might seem like simple questions, but is it really that straightforward?

The oven needs burning in - do it correctly with my tips
The oven needs burning in - do it correctly with my tips
Images source: © Adobe Stock | Copyright:Andrey Atanov (Ivanovich)

Every new appliance contains residues of chemical agents used during production. Not all of them can be removed by regular cleaning, and some are hard to reach. The best method is to burn in the oven before the first use. This approach ensures the complete removal of chemicals, allowing for safe use. It's also a great way to disinfect and remove small contaminants such as dust, dirt, or other particles. Burning in the oven is also a straightforward way to quickly check the technical condition of the device. Smaller or larger defects, such as small cracks or chips that could lead to bigger malfunctions, will be noticeable during this process.

How to burn in an oven before first use?

  • Start by removing all protective materials: take out any foil, styrofoam, cardboard, and paper.
  • Carefully check the technical condition of the oven to ensure there are no visible damages and that all ventilation holes are uncovered. Every movable part should be in its place.
  • Set the oven in its final location, level it, and connect it. Important: connect the oven directly to a grounded outlet safely. Do not use an extension cord.
  • Turn on the oven and set the maximum temperature for about half an hour. After this time, turn it off, open the door, and allow it to cool down. It's advisable to open a window in the room during this process, as there might be an unpleasant smell.
  • After the oven cools down, you can safely clean it by wiping it with a damp cloth.

Should you burn in the oven more frequently, or just after purchase?

Burning in the oven from time to time is worth it, especially if you frequently cook meat. The grease accumulating on the walls can leave a smell that might be slightly off-putting, for example, when baking a cake. Burning in the oven is also a good way to clean the appliance regularly. How often should you burn in the oven? With frequent use, you can do this every 3-4 months.

Quick removal of oven door

Did you know that you can quickly remove the oven door? Not everyone is aware, but the oven door can be easily and quickly removed. This helps in cleaning both the oven and the door itself, which are also exposed to dirt. Especially between the panes, dirt accumulates that is tough to remove. Many of us complain about such dirty glass that cannot be completely cleaned normally and about the problem of reaching the crevices of the door. However, removal solves these problems, and thorough cleaning becomes less of a chore, takes much less time, and is effective. How to remove the oven door - see how simple it is:

  1. Open the door and locate the hinges, then the lock. It's a button or small lever - unlock the door.
  2. Some doors may require unscrewing screws, though most use an option that doesn't require a screwdriver.
  3. Gently lift the door to slide it off the hinges and remove it. They may be heavy, so having someone nearby to help is advisable.
  4. These tips are very general, so it's worth consulting the detailed instructions or calling the manufacturer's helpline. Remember, each manufacturer has their own technologies and methods.

How to care for your oven daily?

After each use, wiping the oven's interior with a damp cloth is beneficial. Should you use strong detergents? If the oven is cleaned regularly and promptly, there's no need. A bit of dish soap should suffice. A paste of baking soda and water can help remove larger stains but don't expect miracles with old and baked-on stains. In such cases, you'll need to use a professional oven cleaner. The simplest approach is regular cleaning and occasionally burning in the oven. To ensure our appliances serve us as long as possible without issues, it's important to care for them daily, not just on special occasions like twice a year. A well-maintained appliance will undoubtedly reward you with trouble-free operation.

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