Why is the drawer under the oven even there if it's not intended for storing pots and pans?
The drawer under the oven is one of the most misunderstood parts of the modern kitchen. Most people use it for granted, without thinking, simply as a convenient space for dishes. Such usage is passed down from generation to generation, often without checking whether it is even correct.
The truth is quite different. In many cases, the drawer under the oven was never designed as a storage space, but rather has a completely different function that can be crucial for safety, energy efficiency, and the quality of food preparation.
Incorrect use can lead to damage to the container, malfunction of the appliance or even dangerous situations in the household. That's why it's important to understand what this drawer really means and how to use it correctly.
Why the drawer under the oven is not an ordinary drawer
The drawer under the oven is often not a conventional storage space. In many models, it is warming drawer, intended for keeping cooked food warm.
Its interior is designed to withstand high temperatures, but not for long-term storage of metal or even plastic objects. When you place pots, lids or baking trays inside, these objects can hinder proper heat circulation.
As a result, he surrendered overheating, which can shorten the life of the oven. In addition, materials that are not heat-resistant will deform or become damaged over time.
Security risks that most people overlook
If flammable materials or items with grease residue are stored in the drawer, high temperatures may cause a fire. danger of overheating or even a fire.
Many users do not notice this as the heat builds up gradually. It can also be mistakenly loaded container prevents the drawer from closing properly, which affects the stability of the oven and increases the risk of mechanical failure.
What happens to a dish stored under the oven?
Cookware that is constantly exposed to heat loses its properties. Coatings can start to peel, the metal changes color, but the handles are loosening or they crack.
Even cast iron cookware, which is considered very durable, can start to crack if exposed to uneven and prolonged heat. to brownIn addition to material damage, there is also a hygiene aspect, as odors and food residue are more likely to remain in a warm space.
The real function of the drawer under the oven
In many ovens, this drawer is designed to keep cooked food warm. This means you can keep food warm without it drying out or overcooking.
This feature is especially useful for larger meals or family dinners when the food is not served at the same time. In older models, the drawer is sometimes used for ventilation or technical components, which means it is not intended for everyday use at all.
How to properly use this space in the kitchen
The best approach is check the instructions from the oven manufacturer. It clearly states whether the drawer is a warming drawer, a technical drawer or a purely decorative drawer.
If it is intended for preservation heat, use it exclusively for food in a suitable container. If it has no useful function, it should remain empty. For storing dishes, choose kitchen cabinets or deep drawers that are actually intended for this purpose.
The drawer under the oven is not an innocent addition, but an important part of the kitchen system. Using it incorrectly may seem practical, but in the long run it can cause more harm than good.
