master-cooks | Banish Lingering Odors From Plastic Containers With One Simple Trick

Plastic containers are incredibly useful for storing food, but they can often retain stubborn odors from previous contents. Fortunately, there's a simple trick to banish these lingering smells effectively. Start by washing the container thoroughly with warm, soapy water to remove any food residues. After cleaning, fill the container with a mixture of baking soda and water, allowing it to sit for several hours or, ideally, overnight. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that absorbs odors, neutralizing unpleasant smells rather than just masking them. For particularly persistent odors, you can also add a splash of white vinegar to the baking soda solution. The mild acidity of the vinegar, combined with the deodorizing power of baking soda, helps in breaking down and eliminating tough smells. Once the soaking period is over, rinse the container thoroughly with warm water and let it air dry completely before storing or using it again. This method is not only effective but also environmentally friendly, avoiding the need for harsh chemicals. With this simple trick, you can keep your plastic containers fresh and odor-free, ensuring that they are ready for their next use without any lingering scents from the past.

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For some individuals, sourcing a consistent supply of old newspapers may make this straightforward solution more challenging than anticipated. In such instances, there are several alternative methods to keep your plastic containers smelling fresh and prevent food storage errors. "Activated" charcoal, a nearly pure form of carbon with a vast surface area, is renowned for its ability to absorb odors. Placing some of it in your plastic container can yield similar odor-neutralizing effects as newspaper, although you might find it less convenient to have on hand.

Others have found success in eliminating odors by leaving their plastic containers in direct sunlight for a few days or by rubbing them with a lemon slice, which utilizes citric acid to combat smells. If these options don’t seem practical, consider soaking your plastic food containers in a solution of water and baking soda.

Baking soda is an excellent all-purpose cleaning agent that can tackle various kitchen tasks, from cleaning your oven to neutralizing unpleasant trash odors, thanks to its alkalinity that counteracts acids (including most odor-causing molecules!). Simply fill your plastic container with water and add at least a tablespoon of baking soda; you can always increase the amount for particularly stubborn odors or to expedite the neutralization process. Whether you opt for newspaper, baking soda, or another technique, the resources needed to eliminate unwanted smells from your storage containers may already be available in your home.

Banish Lingering Odors From Plastic Containers With One Simple Trick

More odor removal tips

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