Firstly, storing items in the drawer beneath the stove can be a fire hazard. The intense heat generated by the oven can transfer to the drawer, potentially causing plastic containers or other flammable materials to melt or catch fire. This poses a significant safety risk, especially if you forget what you’ve stored in there.
Secondly, storing items in this drawer can impede the proper ventilation and airflow required for the oven to function efficiently. It can also make it harder to clean around the stove area, as crumbs and debris can accumulate in the drawer, attracting pests and making your kitchen less sanitary.
So, if the drawer isn’t for storage, what is its purpose?
The Warming Drawer
The drawer underneath the stove is typically referred to as a “warming drawer.” Its primary function is to keep food warm after it has been cooked. Warming drawers are especially useful when you’re preparing multiple dishes or entertaining guests. Instead of letting a dish cool down and risking it becoming cold before serving, you can place it in the warming drawer to maintain its temperature until it’s time to eat.