Self-cleaning ovens use very high heat (900 to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit) to burn off dirt, spills and residue in ovens, turning them to ash. According to The Learning Channel, all self-cleaning ovens feature an automatic-locking mechanism that prevents people from opening the oven until it has cooled to a safe temperature, thus preventing possible burns.

On the Other: Burning Produces Fumes

Researchers from Iowa State University have shown that electric self-cleaning ovens can set off smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors because of the burning that occurs during a cleaning cycle. The Humane Society also reports that fumes from self-cleaning ovens can kill pet birds and may cause harm to other small pets. The California Environmental Protection Agency published a report in 2001 linking self-cleaning ovens with dangerously high levels of nitrogen dioxide, formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. The CEPA recommends operating a self-cleaning oven only when a home is empty and well-ventilated.

Bottom Line

Self-cleaning ovens are not entirely safe. Although they have built-in safety mechanisms to prevent burns, high temperatures used to burn residue and clean ovens can produce toxic fumes.

Source:

The Learning Channel: How Do Self-Cleaning Ovens Work?

The Humane Society: Common Household Dangers for Pets

Iowa State University: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

More Information:

California Environmental Protection Agency: Residential Cooking Exposure Study