WHY DOES MY NEW OVEN SMELL?

WHY DOES MY NEW OVEN SMELL LIKE BURNING PLASTIC?

Your new oven may smell like burnt plastic when you first turn it on due to chemicals and other protective coatings in your oven cavity being exposed to heat for the first time. 

The odor caused by the heating of new parts should dissipate after the first few uses. The important thing to note is to not be alarmed as these unusual odors can be common. Always check to ensure all plastics have been removed from your oven’s packaging materials as well.

If your new oven smells like gas, learn more about potential causes and how to troubleshoot.

WHY IS MY BRAND NEW OVEN SMOKING?

If a new oven is smoking when preheating it may be the result of protective coatings burning off. These coatings are sometimes added during the manufacturing process of some ovens or may even come from the tape used during packaging. The smell generally goes away after a few uses.

Before cooking any food in your new oven, run the Bake cycle a few times to help eliminate the smell. Turn on your kitchen vent or open windows for added ventilation in case anyone in your home is sensitive to intense smells or smoke.

IS THE NEW OVEN SMELL DANGEROUS?

No, the new oven smell is not dangerous. It’s possible to smell the scent of burning plastic when you open or turn on an oven for the very first time due to a protective coating inside some ovens.

Although it’s unlikely, if the smell is actually coming from burnt plastic, inhaling burning plastic fumes can be dangerous. Some pets, including birds, may be sensitive to either of these fumes. As a precaution, make sure all packaging materials have been removed from the inside of your new oven before its first use and move pets to a well-ventilated room.

HOW TO GET RID OF A NEW OVEN SMELL

First, remove any packaging materials, including zip or twist ties. Thoroughly clean the inside of your oven, including the racks, with warm soapy water. Dry with a cloth before running an empty Bake cycle. Consult your oven’s manual before this process, in case there are specific instructions for your particular model.

An empty oven cycle is often referred to as a burn-in or burn-off. If you’re wondering how to burn off a new oven, it starts with turning on the fan (if you have a vent hood) and opening your windows. Set your oven to a Bake cycle at 350° F. Allow your oven to run for up to an hour. After it has cooled, wipe down the interior cavity with a soft damp cloth.

HOW LONG DOES A NEW OVEN SMELL LAST?

The new oven smell may dissipate after the first few uses. If the odor continues after performing your first empty burn-in cycle, repeat the process once or twice more. When you no longer smell oil or burning, allow the oven to cool and then wipe down the inside with a washcloth.

TIPS FOR USING A NEW OVEN FOR THE FIRST TIME

• Inspect your new oven for dents.

• Inspect the burners as well as the power cord. Document anything that may not look up to par before contacting the manufacturer if there are issues.

• Check your owner’s manual for instructions on your first use. Some models may differ slightly in their burn-in process.

• Remove all packaging, including zip ties that are used to keep certain elements in place while in transit.

• Thoroughly wipe down the racks, as well as the inside of the oven with warm soapy water and a cloth.

• Ensure any cookware you plan to use is compatible with your oven.