Omar Khalid
Plastic is a versatile material used in a variety of products, from water bottles to food containers. While plastic items can be convenient and durable, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential to ensure their longevity and, more importantly, our health. One of the most debated topics in this regard is whether it is advisable to wash plastic items with hot water. This question has gained prominence due to growing concerns about the potential health risks associated with certain chemicals found in plastics.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | The American Academy of Pediatricians recommended avoiding washing plastics with hot water, especially those with recycling codes 3 (phthalates), 6 (styrene) and 7 (bisphenols) |
| Reason | Hot water can degrade plastic, causing harmful chemicals like BPA to leach out |
| Alternative | Hand washing with warm water is recommended, and using the dishwasher's top rack if using a dishwasher |
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What You'll Learn
Potential health risks of washing plastic with hot water
Washing plastic with hot water can potentially lead to the release of harmful chemicals, such as bisphenol-A (BPA) and phthalates, which can contaminate food and beverages. BPA is a known endocrine disruptor, capable of interfering with normal hormone function and leading to a range of adverse health effects, including an increased risk of breast cancer and reproductive issues.
The risk of chemical leaching increases with higher temperatures and prolonged exposure. For example, in experiments, water bottles heated to over 150 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) for extended periods showed unsafe levels of antimony and BPA. While the amount of chemicals leached from a single plastic item may be minuscule, the cumulative effect of repeated exposure to multiple plastic items is a cause for concern.
Additionally, the breakdown of plastic items due to hot water can result in the migration of microplastics into food and beverages. Microplastics have been linked to potential health risks, including metabolic disorders and weakened immune function.
To minimize the potential health risks associated with washing plastics with hot water, it is recommended to use alternative materials, such as glass or stainless steel, for storing and consuming food and beverages. Proper rinsing and drying of plastic items can also help reduce the risk of chemical leaching.
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Safer alternatives to plastic
Plastic is a versatile material that has become a cornerstone of modern life, used in everything from food containers to clothing. However, there are growing concerns about the safety of plastics, particularly the potential for harmful chemicals to leach into food and drinks. As a result, many people are seeking safer alternatives to plastic.
One alternative to plastic is glass. Glass is made from sand, a renewable resource, and does not contain chemicals that can leach into food or the body. It is also easily recyclable, making it a more environmentally friendly option than plastic. Glass bottles and jars can be reused for storing food and drinks, reducing waste.
Stainless steel is another safe and durable alternative to plastic. Stainless steel water bottles, cups, lunch boxes, and kitchen storage containers are widely available and offer a long-lasting option for food and beverage storage. Stainless steel does not contain harmful chemicals, making it a healthier choice for individuals and the environment.
Natural materials, such as wood, wool, and bamboo, can also be used as alternatives to plastic. Wood from sustainably managed forests can be used for kitchen utensils, cutting boards, tableware, and drinking straws. Felted or recycled wool is a safe and compostable material for children's toys and household containers. Sustainable clothing made from organic cotton, wool, hemp, or bamboo does not shed plastic fibers when washed, reducing plastic pollution.
Bioplastics are another alternative to traditional plastics. Bioplastics are made from natural substances instead of petroleum and are designed to be biodegradable or compostable. However, it is important to note that most bioplastics require commercial composting facilities to break down properly, which may not be accessible to everyone.
Overall, there are several safer alternatives to plastic that individuals can adopt to reduce their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals and contribute to a more sustainable future.
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How to hand wash plastic
It is recommended to avoid washing plastic with hot water. Research suggests that everyday cleaning practices, such as running plastic containers under hot water, could lead to the leakage of dangerous chemicals. This is due to the potential degradation of plastic, which may allow harmful chemicals to leach out. As such, it is advisable to wash plastic items by hand.
Hand washing plastic items is a straightforward process. Firstly, prepare a cleaning solution. A mixture of vinegar and water is a common choice, but other options include bleach and cool water or baking soda and water. You can also use soap or a mild dish detergent.
For a vinegar solution, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a container or spray bottle. If using bleach, add one teaspoon to a bottle of cool water. For baking soda, combine three tablespoons of baking soda with one tablespoon of water to form a paste, adjusting the amounts as needed to achieve a toothpaste-like consistency.
Once your solution is ready, apply or spray it onto the plastic item. For tight spots, such as built-in straws or threads in lids, use a tiny nylon brush to scrub away any debris. For a baking soda paste, rub the mixture onto the plastic with a cloth or old toothbrush, ensuring you scrub away any sticky grime. Let the paste sit for 20 to 30 minutes to loosen the dirt, then remove it with a wet washcloth, rinsing the cloth periodically.
After applying the cleaning solution, rinse the plastic item thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining dirt or residue. For items with unpleasant scents, adding lemon or orange zest and sealing the lid for 10-15 minutes can help eliminate odours. Finally, dry the plastic item with a towel or let it air dry.
It is important to note that some plastics should be avoided altogether when it comes to heating or washing with hot water. The American Academy of Pediatricians recommends avoiding plastics with recycling codes 3 (phthalates), 6 (styrene), and 7 (bisphenols) unless they are labelled as "biobased" or "greenware."
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How to wash plastic in the dishwasher
There are several reasons why washing plastic in the dishwasher is not recommended. Firstly, plastic does not dry well in the dishwasher, leaving the dishwasher damp and waterlogged. Secondly, the hot water in a dishwasher can degrade the plastic and allow harmful chemicals such as phthalates and BPA to leach out. These chemicals can act like estrogen in the body, affecting immune systems and decreasing fertility. For this reason, the American Academy of Pediatricians has recommended avoiding plastics with recycling codes 3 (phthalates), 6 (styrene), and 7 (bisphenols) and advised against putting plastics in the dishwasher.
However, if you still choose to wash plastic in the dishwasher, here are some instructions to follow:
- Check the label: Only put plastic items in the dishwasher if they are labelled dishwasher-safe. If there is no label or you are unsure, it is best to err on the side of caution and hand wash the item instead.
- Place on the top rack: The dishwasher's heating element is at the bottom, so even dishwasher-safe plastics can melt if placed too close to the heat source. Always put plastic items on the top rack, and do not select high-temperature cycles such as "sanitize."
- Angle for drainage: Try to angle any plastic items so that water can drain out easily.
- Avoid overcrowding: Space out the plastic items to ensure that water spray hits every surface. This will also help with air circulation and drying.
It is important to note that hand washing is often the best option for cleaning plastic items, especially those with tight spots that a dishwasher may not be able to reach, such as built-in straws or plastic lids. When hand washing, use hot water, a good grease-cutting dishwashing liquid, and a dish brush or wand to avoid over-scrubbing.
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How to deep clean a plastic water bottle
It is important to deep clean your plastic water bottles regularly to prevent the growth of mildew, mould, and bacteria. The warm and moist conditions inside a water bottle are perfect for bacteria to thrive.
Using Baking Soda and Hot Water
- Wash your bottle with soap and water.
- Add a couple of tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda (also called baking powder) and fill the bottle with hot water.
- Put the cap on and shake the bottle to mix the contents.
- Remove the cap and let the bottle sit for a few hours.
- Rinse the bottle again with soap and water.
Using Bleach and Cool Water
- If your water bottle has a funky smell, use bleach as an effective disinfectant.
- Add a teaspoon of bleach to your bottle and fill it with cool water.
- Mix the contents and let the bottle sit overnight.
- In the morning, empty the bottle and clean it with dish soap and water.
- You can also soak the cap overnight in a solution of vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, bleach, and water.
Using Vinegar and Warm Water
- Fill your bottle with equal parts white vinegar and warm water and let it soak overnight.
- The next day, rinse the bottle and scrub it with a brush and some soap to ensure there is no lingering vinegar taste.
Using Denture Cleaner
- Fill your bottle with water and add some denture cleaner.
- Let the bottle sit overnight and rinse it out the next day.
Using Mouthwash
Rinse your plastic water bottle with antibacterial mouthwash to get rid of tastes and odours.
It is recommended that you wash your plastic water bottles with soap and hot water every day or at least every other day. This will ensure that you do not need to deep clean your bottles.
It is also important to note that some sources suggest avoiding the use of hot water when cleaning plastic items as it may cause the plastic to degrade and allow harmful chemicals to leach out. These chemicals can be dangerous to your health. As such, you may opt to use warm water instead of hot water when cleaning your plastic water bottles.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not recommended to wash plastic with hot water. Research suggests that washing plastic with hot water or running it through a dishwasher can cause harmful chemicals to leach out.
The hot water can degrade the plastic, causing harmful chemicals such as BPA to leach out. These chemicals can act like estrogen in the body and affect the immune system and fertility.
Glass and stainless steel containers are recommended as safer alternatives to plastic containers.
Hand washing plastic containers with warm water and soap is a safer option. Using a dishwasher may cause the plastic to melt or degrade, especially if the heating element is at the bottom.
