How to Use an Oven for the First Time
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Getting a new oven, especially a modern LG built-in oven , can be exciting. Whether you are a first-time homeowner, upgrading your kitchen, or just curious about trying out new recipes, the idea of finally baking, roasting, or grilling at home feels amazing. But if it’s your first time using an electric oven, you may also feel unsure about where to begin.
If it’s your first time using an oven, you may wonder: Do I need to clean it first? What’s the burn-in process? Why does it smell when I turn it on? This guide will walk you through everything step by step - from safety checks and pre-cleaning to your first cooking test - so you can enjoy safe, delicious results with confidence.
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Why First-Time Oven Use Matters
Before you dive into your first cooking adventure, it’s important to understand why proper preparation matters. New ovens often come with protective coatings, oils, or factory residues that need to be burned off for safety. If you skip this step, your food may pick up strange smells or tastes.
Using your oven correctly from day one ensures:
● Better safety in your kitchen
● Cleaner, fresher-tasting meals
● Longer-lasting oven performance
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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use an Oven for the First Time
Step 1: Safety First
Start by preparing your kitchen and oven:
1. Read the instruction manual carefully so you understand the functions of your specific oven.
2. Remove all packaging, stickers, or plastics inside and outside the oven.
3. Make sure your kitchen is well ventilated. Open windows or turn on a fan to keep fresh air flowing when you first heat the oven.
Step 2: Clean Before Use
Your oven may look shiny and spotless, but it’s always best to give it a quick clean before the first use.
● Wipe down the oven walls, racks, and trays with warm soapy water.
● Rinse with clean water and let them dry fully before heating.
This step removes dust, oils, and residues left from manufacturing.
Step 3: Do the Burn-In Process
This is one of the most important steps when using a new oven.
1. Preheat your oven to around 200–250°C.
2. Let it run empty for about 30–60 minutes.
The burn-in process ensures your oven is safe and ready for cooking.
Step 4: Wipe Down Again
Once the oven has cooled completely, open the door, wipe the inside again with a damp cloth, and remove any remaining smell or residue.
Step 5: Learn the Controls
Every oven is slightly different, but most will have these common settings:
● Bake: Ideal for cakes, cookies, and bread.
● Grill: Perfect for chicken, fish, or melted cheese dishes.
● Convection/Fan: Circulates heat evenly, making it great for roasts or multiple trays of food.
Many LG built-in ovens also connect to the LG ThinQ app, letting you control and monitor your oven directly from your smartphone.
Step 6: Best Practices for Cooking
Now that your oven is ready, here are some tips to get the best results:
● Always preheat before cooking.
● Place your racks according to the type of food you are cooking. The middle rack works best for baking, while the top rack is great for grilling.
● Only use oven-safe cookware.
● Avoid placing aluminium foil directly on the base of the oven, as it can damage the heating elements.
Step 7: Do a Simple Test Cook
For your very first meal, choose something easy. A frozen pizza, roasted vegetables, or a simple chicken dish is perfect. This will help you get used to how your oven heats and how long it takes to cook.
Discover our easy-to-follow recipes that you can try with your new oven.
Step 8: Keep Your Oven Clean
To keep your oven working well for years:
● Wipe down the inside once it has cooled after each use.
● Wash trays and racks at least once a week.
● If your oven has LG EasyClean™, use this feature for quick and safe cleaning without harsh chemicals.
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Tips and Troubleshooting
● A light smell during the first few uses is completely normal.
● If you notice heavy smoke or a very strong burning smell that doesn’t go away, turn off the oven, let it cool, and check the manual. If necessary, call customer support.
● Always keep your oven door closed during cooking to maintain even heat.
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Conclusion
Using an electric oven for the first time doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By cleaning, completing the burn-in process, and familiarizing yourself with the controls, you’ll set yourself up for safe and successful cooking from the very beginning. From crispy pizzas to perfectly roasted chicken, your oven is about to become one of the most reliable tools in your kitchen.
Ready to take your cooking to the next level? Explore LG’s range of smart built-in ovens , designed with innovative features like LG ThinQ connectivity and EasyClean™ technology, making everyday meals simpler, smarter, and more enjoyable.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the burn-in process really necessary for a new oven?
Yes. The burn-in process removes protective coatings and residues from manufacturing. Skipping this step may cause unusual smells or affect the taste of your food.
What should I cook first in my new oven?
Start with something simple like frozen pizza, roasted vegetables, or chicken. This helps you get familiar with how your oven heats and cooks food.
Why does my oven smell the first time I use it?
A light smell or smoke during the first few uses is normal. It comes from the burn-in process, as protective coatings burn off. The smell will disappear after a few uses.
Do all ovens need cleaning before the first use?
Yes. Even if your oven looks spotless, it’s recommended to wipe down the racks, trays, and interior with warm soapy water to remove dust and factory residues.
How long does it take to preheat a new electric oven?
Most modern electric ovens, including LG built-in ovens, take about 10–15 minutes to preheat, depending on the set temperature. Always preheat before cooking for the best results.
Can I use my oven right away without the burn-in process?
It’s not recommended. Using your oven without burn-in may cause food to absorb unwanted odors and can reduce long-term oven performance.
What’s the difference between bake, grill, and convection settings?
● Bake: Uses bottom heat, best for cakes, cookies, and bread.
● Grill: Uses top heat, perfect for melting cheese, fish, or chicken.
● Convection (fan): Circulates hot air evenly, ideal for roasts or cooking multiple trays.
Can I put aluminium foil in my new oven?
Avoid placing aluminium foil directly on the oven base, as it can damage heating elements. Instead, use it on baking trays or to cover dishes.
How do I keep my oven clean after the first use?
Wipe down the interior once it cools after each use, wash racks regularly, and if your oven has LG EasyClean™, use it for quick, chemical-free cleaning.
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What should I do if my oven produces too much smoke during its first use?
Turn it off, let it cool completely, and check if there’s leftover packaging material or excess residue. If the smoke persists after burn-in, consult the manual or contact customer support.