Sofia Martinez
Plastic containers are notorious for absorbing the odours and stains of their contents, even if they are cleaned thoroughly. This is due to residual food particles that release odours, or the container not being dried entirely before being stored away. Luckily, there are many household ingredients that can be used to combat this issue, such as baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, salt, coffee grounds, and charcoal.
How to clean smelly plastic containers
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prevention | Keep containers in a well-ventilated, cool, and dry area |
| Avoid using plastic containers in the microwave | |
| Store food items in airtight bags before placing them in containers | |
| Label containers with the date of storage | |
| Avoid storing containers before they are completely dry | |
| Avoid highly scented detergents | |
| Natural Deodorizers | Baking soda |
| Lemon juice | |
| Vanilla extract | |
| Salt | |
| Coffee grounds | |
| Charcoal | |
| Vinegar | |
| Sunlight |
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What You'll Learn
Air containers out and use sunlight to fight odours
Sunlight is a natural and effective way to eliminate odours from plastic containers. It breaks down odour-causing molecules, helping to get rid of unpleasant smells. Place the container in direct sunlight for a day or two with the lid off to maximise exposure. Rotate the container periodically so that all sides receive direct sunlight.
Putting the container in a well-ventilated area will also help to air it out. You can leave the window open to let fresh air circulate and help cast out bad smells.
Containers should be washed and dried out completely before being placed in the sun. It is also important to routinely check the condition of stored items and containers to prevent issues.
Airing out containers is a good way to prevent odours from developing and settling in. Containers should be opened and items removed periodically to allow fresh air circulation.
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Use baking soda and water to scrub containers
Baking soda is a powerful natural deodorizer that can help eliminate stubborn stains and get rid of lingering food smells. To use baking soda and water to scrub your containers, follow these steps:
First, mix one tablespoon (about 17 grams) of baking soda with one cup (236 milliliters) of water to create a paste. You can adjust the amount of baking soda based on the size and intensity of the smell in your container. For a stronger solution, use two parts baking soda to one part water.
Next, rub the paste generously onto the interior of the container, ensuring it gets into all the nooks, curves, and sides. Use a soft sponge or dish rag to gently scrub the paste into the plastic. For more stubborn stains, let the paste sit for at least 15 to 20 minutes or even overnight before scrubbing and rinsing.
After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the container with water. You can also add a bit of dish soap to the water for this final rinse. Repeat the process if necessary until the container is clean and odor-free.
For particularly stubborn stains or strong smells, you can also try using baking soda with other household ingredients like vinegar, lemon, or salt. These additional ingredients can help boost the cleaning and deodorizing power of the baking soda.
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Soak containers in a vinegar and water solution
Soaking containers in a vinegar and water solution is an effective method for removing stains and odours from plastic containers. This technique is particularly useful for containers that have been stained by carotene-rich foods, such as tomato sauce, turmeric, and chicken wings in buffalo sauce.
To create the vinegar and water solution, mix equal parts vinegar and water. For a deeper clean, you can use a solution of one cup of vinegar and a quarter cup of baking soda, diluted in water. Submerge the plastic container in the solution and let it soak for at least an hour. For more stubborn stains and odours, you may need to soak the container for several hours or even 1-2 days.
After soaking, wash the container in the dishwasher or with soapy water to remove any residual vinegar smell. Rinse the container thoroughly with hot, soapy water and allow it to air dry.
It is important to note that while vinegar is effective at removing stains and odours, it may not be worth the trouble for lightly stained containers. Additionally, it is recommended to test this method on a small area of the container first to ensure that the vinegar does not discolour the plastic.
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Use lemon juice or lemon zest to clean containers
Lemon juice or lemon zest can be used to clean smelly plastic containers. Lemon juice can be used to rinse the container, or a cut lemon can be rubbed all over the interior surface. Lemon juice can also be used to lighten any lingering food stains.
To use lemon juice or lemon zest to clean a container, start by cutting a lemon in half. If using lemon zest, use a zester or a small knife to remove the lemon zest from the lemon. Place the lemon zest in the bottom of the container and set the lemon aside. Squeeze the juice from the lemon into the container, making sure to cover the entire surface. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the inside of the container, paying special attention to any areas with stubborn odours or stains.
If your container has a particularly strong odour, you can also add baking soda to the lemon juice to create a paste. First, mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one cup of water. Apply the paste to the interior of the container, let it sit overnight, and then wash the container with water and dish soap the next day.
Lemon juice and lemon zest are effective at removing odours because the citric acid in lemons neutralizes the odour-causing molecules. This process is known as acid neutralization. Lemon juice and lemon zest are also natural deodorizers, so they will leave your containers smelling fresh.
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Store containers with salt or coffee grounds inside
If your plastic container has an unpleasant smell, you can get rid of it with a few household ingredients. One easy method is to use salt or coffee grounds.
Firstly, always start by giving your container a good scrub with soap and hot water. Then, place a large pinch of salt or used coffee grounds in your container, seal it, and leave it for a day to absorb the unpleasant smell. If you're not planning on using the container for a while, you can simply store it with the salt or coffee grounds inside until you're ready to use it again.
Coffee grounds are great deodorizers, and they work in a similar way to baking soda. The grounds will soak up odors, leaving your container smelling fresh. You can also use dry coffee grounds in the refrigerator to absorb odors. Simply place the grounds in an open container and leave them to work their magic.
If you're using salt, try mixing it with warm water and a few drops of vanilla extract. This method will not only help to eliminate odors but also leave your container smelling pleasant. Let the mixture soak for a few hours, then rinse the container thoroughly with water.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to clean smelly plastic containers. Here are some methods:
- Wash the container with soap and hot water, then stuff it with newspaper.
- Soak the container in a solution of vinegar and water for at least an hour.
- Make a paste with baking soda and water, scrub the container with it, and let it sit overnight.
- Place the container outside in direct sunlight for a day or two.
- Put a pinch of salt in the container and seal it.
Vanilla extract can be used to mask bad odours. Pour 2-3 tablespoons of water and a few drops of vanilla extract into the container and seal it. Let the mixture soak for a few hours, then rinse the container thoroughly.
You can use lemon juice or lemon zest instead. Pour several spoonfuls of lemon juice into the container, scrub the surface, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. You can also rub the container with a cut lemon.
Coffee grounds can also be used to counteract bad smells. Put a handful of wet or dry coffee grounds in the container and leave it in an open area for several hours or days.
You can try using charcoal. Throw a piece of charcoal into the container, seal it, and leave it for a day or two.
Yes, you can try using vinegar and baking soda together. Mix one cup of vinegar with 1/4 cup of baking soda in a large bowl. Place the container in the bowl and add water until it is submerged. Soak for 1-2 days, then wash the container.
Note: Always ensure your containers are well-washed and completely dry before storing them.
