Chloe Zhang
Plastic containers are a convenient way to store food and other items, but they can be tricky to clean, especially if they've been sitting in the refrigerator for a while. To ensure your plastic containers are clean and free of any contaminants that could affect the quality of your food, it's important to wash them thoroughly. In this article, we will discuss various methods for cleaning plastic containers, including the use of hot water and sanitiser, vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap, as well as some tips for using the dishwasher effectively.
Characteristics of washing new plastic containers
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To remove dirt, debris, stains, and odours |
| Recommended products | Hot water, vinegar, dish soap, baking soda, hand sanitizer, bleach |
| Cleaning methods | Soaking, dishwasher, handwashing |
| Drying | Air drying recommended; can use a fan to speed up process |
| Sterilization methods | Steam sterilization (autoclaving), chemical sterilization |
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What You'll Learn
How to hand wash plastic containers
Hand washing plastic containers is a straightforward process, but there are some key things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to use hot water when washing plastic containers by hand. This is because hot water is more effective at removing dirt, grease, and bacteria than cold water. It is also recommended to use a grease-cutting dishwashing liquid to help remove any stubborn grease or oil stains. Using a dish brush or wand can be helpful to avoid over-scrubbing, and for tight spots, such as built-in straws or plastic lids, small nylon brushes can be used to scrub out any debris or deposits.
When hand washing plastic containers, it is important to ensure that they are thoroughly cleaned, especially if they are going to be used for storing food. Leftover food particles or grease can not only look unpleasant but also provide a breeding ground for bacteria, which can be harmful if consumed. Therefore, it is recommended to create a sanitation mix of one teaspoon of vinegar per quart of warm water, or a bleach solution of two teaspoons of bleach per gallon of water, in a clean and sanitized sink. Dunk and shake the containers in this mix for at least seven seconds to ensure that the entire inside surface of the container comes into contact with the sanitizing solution.
For stained plastic containers, there are a few additional steps that can be taken to remove stains and restore the container to its original state. One method is to use a paste made from baking soda and water. Sprinkle one to two tablespoons of baking soda into the container and slowly add warm water to form a paste. Smear this paste all over the stained areas and let it sit for about 30 minutes. After this, the paste can be wiped away with a damp cloth, and the container can be rinsed with dish soap and warm water. Alternatively, a liquid hand sanitizer can be used by pouring it over the stain and letting it sit for about 45 minutes before wiping it clean and rinsing the container with soap and water.
It is important to note that not all plastic containers are meant for repeated use. Some containers, such as takeout containers and yogurt cups, are designed for single use only and may not withstand multiple washings or high temperatures. If a plastic container cannot hold its shape in hot water or the microwave, it is best to recycle it rather than attempting to clean and reuse it. Additionally, if a stain cannot be removed from a plastic container, it is recommended to discard it and replace it with a new one to maintain hygiene and food safety.
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Using vinegar to clean plastic containers
To clean your plastic containers with vinegar, start by creating a solution of equal parts vinegar and water. You can use distilled white vinegar or a diluted solution of 5% vinegar for this purpose. Fill the containers with this solution and let them soak for several hours or overnight. For lighter stains, a mixture of 1 tablespoon of vinegar per cup of water can be used, and the solution can be left to sit for 1-2 hours. For more stubborn stains, a stronger solution of 30% cleaning vinegar can be used.
After soaking, rinse the containers thoroughly with hot, soapy water and allow them to air dry completely before using them again. This process will not only remove stains but also eliminate any lingering odours, leaving your plastic containers looking and smelling fresh.
While vinegar is an effective cleaning agent, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for all types of plastic. Always test the vinegar on a small, inconspicuous area of the container first to ensure it does not cause any discolouration or damage. Additionally, some plastic containers may be marked as dishwasher-safe, in which case a dishwasher can be used to clean and sanitise them.
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Using baking soda to clean plastic containers
Baking soda is a great natural ingredient for cleaning plastic containers. It can be used to remove stains, lift dyes, and eliminate lingering odours. Before using baking soda, wash the plastic container with warm water and dish soap. Then, sprinkle a layer of baking soda into the container and use a soft sponge to scrub the baking soda into the container. Rinse the container with warm water and repeat the process until it is clean.
For a more intensive clean, create a baking soda and water paste. This paste can be made by mixing one part water with three parts baking soda. Generously apply the paste to stained areas and let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes. Then, wipe the paste away with a damp cloth and rinse the container with warm water and dish soap.
For stubborn stains, create a thicker paste and let it sit for up to 20 minutes before washing it away. Alternatively, scrub the stained area with plain table salt before rinsing the container. To remove tea stains, fill the container with water and add two tablespoons of dishwasher detergent. Let the solution sit for 15 to 45 minutes and repeat as needed.
Baking soda can also be used to clean plastic items in the refrigerator. First, remove all items from the refrigerator and wipe down the interior with a damp sponge to remove crumbs and spills. Then, make a baking soda and water paste and apply it to stained areas. Let the paste sit for 30 minutes. While waiting, fill a spray bottle with warm water and a drop of dish soap to clean the rest of the refrigerator. Finally, rinse the paste out of the refrigerator with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
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Using hand sanitiser to clean plastic containers
It is important to wash plastic containers, especially those used for storing food, to ensure they are clean and free of any contaminants that could affect the quality of your product. While dishwashers are convenient, they may not be the best option for plastic containers as the high temperatures can surpass the temperature tolerance of the plastic.
Step 1: Prepare the Container
Ensure the container is cool and empty before cleaning. If there are any food remnants or residue, give it a quick rinse with warm water to remove any loose particles.
Step 2: Apply Hand Sanitiser
Pour liquid hand sanitiser into the container, ensuring you cover any stained areas. You may need to use a generous amount to coat the entire stained area. Let the hand sanitiser sit for around 45 minutes. The alcohol in the sanitiser will help break down stains and remove odours.
Step 3: Wipe and Rinse
After the waiting period, pour out the hand sanitiser. Use a soft cloth or slightly damp paper towel to wipe away any remaining sanitiser and stains. Rinse the container with warm water to remove any residue.
Step 4: Wash and Dry
Finally, wash the container with hot, soapy water. You can use a mild detergent or dish soap for this step. Rinse the container thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely before using it again.
This method is particularly effective for removing stains from tomato-based sauces, which are known to cause stubborn stains in plastic containers. Remember to always follow manufacturer instructions when using hand sanitiser or any other cleaning products, and wear protective gloves if necessary.
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How to load a dishwasher with plastic containers
To start, always check that your plastic containers are dishwasher-safe. Look for a label that says "dishwasher-safe" on the packaging or a dishwasher stamp or symbol (usually a box with some plates or glasses in it) on the product itself.
When loading a dishwasher, it is important to know what goes on the top, bottom, or third rack. The top rack is for lighter items, such as small bowls, small plates, cups, mugs, drinking glasses, stemware, and plastic items and containers. The bottom rack is for larger items such as plates and large bowls.
Plastic containers and lids can be washed in the top rack, facing downward, and should always be placed in the top rack to keep them away from the heating element at the bottom of the dishwasher. Plastic can become warped or melted if it gets too hot. Ensure plastic items fit securely in your top dishwasher rack and are not small enough to fit through gaps. Long utensils like spatulas or ladles should be laid flat on the upper dishwasher rack. Make sure these utensils cannot slip through the rack or otherwise block the spray arms.
To ensure your dishwasher is loaded properly, do not stack items together as they may not be cleaned properly if they are too tight. Place the dirtiest side of the item facing the source of the water spray. Avoid overcrowding, which prevents the water jets from reaching every crevice. Place items between, not on top of, the dishwasher's tines; the grid is meant to keep everything in order.
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Frequently asked questions
New plastic containers may contain impurities or chemicals left over from the manufacturing process. Therefore, it is important to wash them before their first use.
The best way to wash new plastic containers is to use hot water and soap. You can also create a sanitizing mix with a 1:1 ratio of vinegar and water or a mild bleach solution with 2 teaspoons of bleach per gallon of water. Dunk and shake the containers in the mix for at least 7 seconds, ensuring the solution covers the entire inside of the container. Then, let the containers air-dry completely before using them.
Containers from reputable suppliers should not require any cleaning. However, it is still recommended to give them a quick rinse before use, as you don't know how they were stored or handled before you received them.
Yes, you can put new plastic containers in the dishwasher, but make sure they are dishwasher-safe. Place the containers on the top rack, facing the source of the water spray, and avoid stacking them to ensure they get cleaned properly. After running the dishwasher, empty any water pooled inside the containers and let them air-dry.
Check if the container can hold its shape in hot water or the microwave. If it cannot, it is meant for single use only and should be recycled rather than washed and reused.
