Alexei Volkov
Stained plastic containers are unsightly and unappetising, but there are several ways to clean them. Some common household products that can be used to remove stains include vinegar, baking soda, hand sanitiser, and bleach. For example, a solution of vinegar and water can be used to soak stained containers, and baking soda can be mixed with water to form a paste that can be applied to stained areas. For more stubborn stains, denture tablets, or a solution of dawn power dissolver and hot water can be used. While bleach is effective, it can discolour plastic containers. To prevent stains, some people recommend spraying the containers with cooking oil spray before adding food.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cleaning agent | Baking soda, vinegar, hand sanitiser, denture tablets, dish soap, bleach, peroxide, toothpaste, alcohol, cleaning sheet eraser, bon ami, bar keepers friend |
| Application method | Paste, soak, scrub, pour, sprinkle |
| Time | 30 minutes to overnight |
| Rinse | Yes, with hot water and dish soap |
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Using vinegar and water
Vinegar is a natural cleaner that is generally safe to use on most types of plastic without causing any damage. It is also eco-friendly and non-toxic, making it perfect for cleaning food containers. White vinegar, in particular, can clean just about anything, including food storage containers. To clean a stained plastic container with vinegar and water, follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the vinegar and water solution
Mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water. For example, mix 1 cup of hot water with 1 tablespoon of vinegar. You can also use a ratio of 1 tablespoon of vinegar per 1 cup of water.
Step 2: Soak the stained container
Pour the vinegar and water solution into the stained plastic container. Allow the container to soak in the mixture for 2 to 3 hours. You can also let it sit for about 30 minutes if you are in a hurry.
Step 3: Rinse and wash the container
After soaking, dump out the vinegar and water solution, then rinse the container thoroughly with hot water. Wash the container with dish soap to remove any trace of the vinegar scent.
Step 4: Dry the container
Finally, allow the container to air dry. The vinegar smell will disappear once the container is completely dry.
It is important to note that vinegar may not be effective for all types of stains. It is great for removing weird odors, but it might not completely remove deep stains. Additionally, vinegar can be too strong for some plastics, so always use a balanced mixture of vinegar and water to avoid damaging the plastic.
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Baking soda paste
Baking soda is a great option to clean stained plastic containers. It is a natural food-safe substance and can be used to remove liquid stains. To make a baking soda paste, sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda on the bottom of the container. Then, sprinkle water over the baking soda to form a paste. The paste should be just a tiny bit thinner than toothpaste; you want it to spread easily but not be runny.
Once you have the right consistency, smear the paste all over the stained areas of the container. Let the paste sit for 15-30 minutes. After 30 minutes, if the stain is still visible, give it another 30 minutes. Then, wipe the paste around with a damp cloth, rubbing the bottom well, and then rinse with dish soap and warm water.
You can also try making a paste by combining 2 tablespoons of baking soda with enough water to form a paste. Apply it to the stained area of your containers and let it sit for 2-3 hours, then clean with a moist cloth or sponge.
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Bleach
To clean a stained plastic container with bleach, first, mix a solution of bleach and water. You can use either liquid chlorine bleach or powder oxygen bleach. The general ratio is one tablespoon of bleach to one cup of water, but you may need to double or triple the amount of each ingredient to fully cover the stain.
Once you have made your bleach solution, carefully pour it into the stained container. Close the lid and gently shake the container to ensure the solution covers the entire surface. Then, set the container aside and let it soak for one to two hours.
After the container has soaked, pour the bleach solution down the sink and wash the container in hot, soapy water. Rinse the container thoroughly to ensure no bleach residue remains. You can also put the container in the dishwasher for a thorough cleaning.
Finally, avoid exposing the container to direct sunlight immediately after cleaning, as this may enhance discolouration.
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Hand sanitiser
While hand sanitiser is great at removing stains from plastic containers, it can also leave stains of its own. The high amounts of alcohol in hand sanitiser can permeate and draw oils from the plastic, leading to a faded appearance. If the stain has been left for a long time, the discolouration may be permanent. However, there are several methods you can try to remove hand sanitiser stains from plastic.
One option is to use a cleaning solution. First, mix one part mild dish soap with ten parts water. Then, apply the solution to a soft microfiber cloth and gently rub the cloth over the stained area in back-and-forth motions. Finally, wipe the plastic with a dry area of the cloth.
Another effective cleaning solution is white vinegar, which contains acetic acid, a powerful organic liquid that can neutralise the alkaline composition of hand sanitiser. Apply a vinegar cleaning solution to a cloth and wipe the stain, repeating as necessary for stubborn marks.
Alternatively, you can use an off-the-shelf product, such as the Chemical Guys Invisible Super Cleaner, which is safe for use on plastics.
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Denture tablets
To clean a stained plastic container with denture tablets, start by filling the container with warm water. Then, drop one or two denture tablets into the water, depending on the size of the container. Allow the tablets to dissolve and fizz, breaking down the stains. For super stubborn stains, you may need to use a brush to scrub them away.
Let the container soak overnight for best results. The next day, pour out the solution and rinse the container with hot, soapy water. Finally, dry the container thoroughly. Your plastic container will be stain-free and as good as new!
In addition to cleaning stained plastic containers, denture tablets can also be used to clean and deodorize a variety of items around the house. They are effective at removing coffee and tea stains from mugs, cups, and kettles. They can also be used to clean jewellery, freshen up smelly shoes, clear clogged drains, and even remove stains from ceramic vases.
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Frequently asked questions
Mix 1 cup of hot water with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar in your stained container. Let the solution sit for 1 hour or longer, then rinse and wash with dish soap.
Mix 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda with warm water to form a paste. Spread the paste over the stained areas and let it sit for 30 minutes. Wipe with a damp cloth, then rinse with soap and warm water.
Yes, you can use products such as hand sanitizer, denture tablets, bleach, or commercial stain removers. Always ensure you thoroughly rinse your container after cleaning.
Place your container in direct sunlight for a few hours. The sun can naturally remove stains and eliminate lingering scents.
Before adding food to your plastic container, spray the inside with cooking oil spray. This will prevent stains from forming on the plastic.
