Q: I preheated my Kenmore self-cleaning oven, unaware that a plastic silverware holder was inside. How can I remove the concrete-hard melted plastic buildup? Would you advise turning the self-cleaning option on with the hope that the plastic will disintegrate, or is there a potential of toxic fume release?
— Jane Wilson, Bath Township
A: Don’t use the self-cleaning cycle. Besides releasing fumes, it could cause the plastic to catch fire, said Rudy Germeister, owner of Advanced Appliance Service Co. in Akron.
Germeister said he’s found that melted plastic is brittle, and if you pry it, it might pop off. He suggested using a stiff putty knife and trying to lift the plastic at one corner.
Be careful not to damage the oven surface, however. He said the coating on the surface is important to the self-cleaning function.
A razor scraper can be used to remove melted plastic from some surfaces, but I hesitate to recommend that without checking with the manufacturer. I tried contacting Sears customer service but received no reply.
Have a question about home maintenance, decorating or gardening? Akron Beacon Journal home writer Mary Beth Breckenridge will find answers for the queries that are chosen to appear in the paper. To submit a question, call her at 330-996-3756, or send email to mbrecken@thebeaconjournal.com. Be sure to include your full name, your town and your phone number or email address.
