Shopping for an oven, you'll see “pyrolytic” on many models — a self-cleaning feature that does the worst kitchen job for you. Here's what it is and whether it's worth it.
How pyrolytic cleaning works
At the press of a button, the oven heats to a very high temperature and burns off grease and food residue, turning it to fine ash you simply wipe away once it cools. The door locks during the cycle for safety.
The benefits
- No scrubbing and no harsh chemical oven cleaners.
- A genuinely clean oven at the touch of a button.
- Great for keen bakers and anyone who hates the chore.
Things to know
- The cycle uses energy and runs for a couple of hours — so use it occasionally, not weekly.
- It can produce some smell during the burn-off — ventilate the kitchen.
- Pyrolytic ovens are better insulated, which also helps efficiency in everyday use.
The alternative: catalytic liners
Some ovens use catalytic liners that absorb grease as you cook — cheaper, but not as thorough as a pyrolytic clean.
Final thoughts
If you bake and roast often and hate cleaning, a pyrolytic oven is well worth it. Browse ovens and cookers online, or ask in any of our 60+ stores.
