Methods for removing odors and dirt from plastic lunch boxes

The odor and dirt of plastic lunch boxes can be removed by soaking in baking soda solution, wiping with white vinegar, exposing to sunlight, adsorbing with lemon slices, and rinsing with tea water. These methods are easy to operate and can effectively remove residues and odors, making them suitable for daily use.

1. Soak in Baking Soda Solution

Dissolve one spoonful of baking soda in warm water and pour it into a lunch box to soak for several hours. Baking soda's weak alkalinity can decompose oil and protein based dirt, while neutralizing acidic odors. After soaking, wipe the inner wall with a soft cloth, and repeat the operation for stubborn stains. Be careful to avoid using metal brushes to prevent scratching the plastic surface.

2. Wipe with white vinegar

Soak kitchen paper in white vinegar and leave it on the stain for 20 minutes. The bactericidal effect of acetic acid can eliminate mold and odors caused by food residue fermentation. For gaps such as the sealing strip on the box cover, a cotton swab dipped in white vinegar can be used to clean them carefully. After processing, rinse thoroughly with clean water to avoid residual acetic acid affecting the taste of subsequent use.

3. Sunlight exposure

Place the cleaned lunch box upside down in the sun to dry. Ultraviolet radiation can kill bacteria and accelerate the volatilization of organic odors. This method is particularly suitable for removing stubborn residues such as fish and curry, and the recommended exposure time is 2-3 hours. Dark colored lunch boxes need to be sun dried for a longer period of time, but high temperature deformation should be avoided.

4. Lemon slice adsorption

Fresh lemon slices are placed in a sealed lunch box and left to stand overnight. Citric acid and fruity components can penetrate plastic pores and decompose oil stains. For the plastic smell caused by microwave heating, it can be soaked in warm water and lemon slices together. This method is natural and safe, and the lunch box will leave a fresh fruit aroma after processing.

5. Tea water rinsing

Brewed tea leaves are poured into a lunch box with water and shaken for rinsing. Tea polyphenols have strong oxidizing properties and can degrade pigment deposition. Black tea has a significant effect on coffee stains, while green tea is more suitable for removing volatile odors such as garlic. The fine fibers of tea can also physically rub away adhesive dirt, so attention should be paid to removing tea residue after treatment.

When using plastic lunch boxes in daily life, it is advisable to avoid containing high-temperature oily foods. After cleaning, it is necessary to dry the water in a timely manner to prevent bacterial growth. Before long-term storage, activated carbon bags can be placed to absorb aftertaste, and deep cleaning should be carried out once a month. If cracks or fogging of plastic are found, it is recommended to replace the lunch box with a new one to ensure food safety. Choosing food grade plastic products that meet national standards can effectively reduce the probability of odor and dirt adhesion.