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A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭
Collierville, TN

I think the smell is pretty strong when I use the self-cleaning feature. It didn't bother me in the past, but now think I should turn it on, then stay outside the house for a couple of hours, or at least raise several windows.

November 3, 2025
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MyCOPDTeam

Is it dangerous to use a self-cleaning oven with COPD?

The strong smell from a self-cleaning oven can definitely be problematic with COPD. The high heat burns off food residue, creating fumes and odors that can irritate your lungs and potentially trigger breathing difficulties.

Your instinct to leave the house or open Show Full Answer

Is it dangerous to use a self-cleaning oven with COPD?

The strong smell from a self-cleaning oven can definitely be problematic with COPD. The high heat burns off food residue, creating fumes and odors that can irritate your lungs and potentially trigger breathing difficulties.

Your instinct to leave the house or open windows is spot-on. These fumes fall into the category of indoor air pollutants that can make managing COPD much harder.

Here are some safer alternatives:

- Have someone else clean the oven manually using natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar
- If you must use the self-clean feature, leave the house entirely while it runs and for a few hours after
- Open multiple windows and use fans to ventilate before, during, and after the cleaning cycle
- Consider wearing an N95-rated respirator mask if you need to be home

The safest approach is to avoid using the self-cleaning feature altogether and stick with manual cleaning using non-toxic products, or ask someone to help you with this task.

November 3, 2025
A MyCOPDTeam Member

I am the same as you Jael2. I can't take the smell anymore and leave the house. But then again I couldn't take the smell of the oven clean before the self cleaning oven.

November 4, 2025
A MyCOPDTeam Member

@A MyCOPDTeam Member, I had to look up ark cleaning ovens; never heard of that before. it sounds like you're not using a foreign product to clean that way? It sounds safer. Have you tried it?

November 14, 2025 (edited)
A MyCOPDTeam Member

What does ark cleaning ovens put out that’s dangerous I have a kitchen aid and u pour water on bottom n it come out like new what’s the water? Mela

November 13, 2025
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Guess this isn't a good place to mention that I just used the self cleaning feature on my oven the other day for the second time in 16 years! I survived, but you all make up your own minds. Be safe! Chris
November 11, 2025

November 11, 2025

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