I've had self-cleaning ovens for over 30 years, and I've used dozens of them--both electric and gas as a home ec teacher and demonstration cook.

yes, you're supposed to remove the racks. I never do. Leaving them in is the easiest way to clean them. They do darken, and yes, they may not slide quite as easily after going through the cleaning cycle, but that's a minor trade-off to me. I also put the top grates (gas range) and any cast iron that I want to clean and reseason in the oven while it self-cleans. Everything comes out beautifully, and no work for me.

If you are a purist and don't want to leave the racks in, the alternative method, I hear (haven't tried it) is to put the racks in a trash bag with ammonia, seal, let them soak a while, then clean.

I asked about self cleaning ovens a few weeks ago. I have never used this feature and am going to try as soon as this arctic weather lets up so I can open windows in case there are fumes. DH has emphesema and fumes bother him a lot and there really isn't any place for him to go while I clean the oven. I understand I should plan on this being almost an all day project. Guess I'll remove the racks. The amonia in a bag works super. I always put the bag outside overnight, but live in an apt so will brillo the racks as best I can. Dottie

I'm one of those who pretty much follows the rules, and the book says to remove the racks, and gives the reasons why: they change color and won't slide as easily.

I had already started the cycle when I posted the question, so it was too late to consider leaving the racks in.

I have cleaned my grill rack with the ammonia in a bag, so I'll do that for these racks tomorrow.

So now I can mark "clean the oven" off of my To Do list.

Sue

So now I can mark "clean the oven" off of my To Do list.

You go GF!

I'm hoping to be back at late fall/early spring cleaning this next week, and maybe get a few things marked off.

Wish me well please.

(the other) Sue