How to remove stains from plastic containers

how to remove stains from plastic containers

Plastic containers play an important role in our kitchens. We use them to store our lunches, leftovers and favorite foods. Unfortunately, tupperware and other plastic containers absorb liquids easily and are prone to stains. Thankfully, there are many ways to remove these stains effectively. You can get rid of them with baking soda paste, lemon, or salt.

For many people it’s important to not be wasteful and save leftover foods for future enjoyment. That’s why we use plastic containers to keep the food fresh so we can save the leftovers and share the deliciousness with our loved ones. This can leave your tupperware looking dirty because of food residue. But if you act quickly, you’ll lessen the possibility of ruining your container.

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Removing stains from plastic containers with baking soda

One simple and effective way to eliminate stains from your tupperware is by using a simple ingredient you can find in your own kitchen: baking soda. Using baking soda paste in removing stains is a practical and simple method.

Follow the process below to achieve the best results.

  1. Get a bowl. Mix an equal amount of baking soda and water.
  2. Stir it thoroughly to produce a silky solution.
  3. Get your stained container. Spread the baking soda paste on it. Let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes.
  4. Use a clean wet cloth to remove the paste residue. In a gentle circular motion, wipe the stains on your container.
  5. Use dishwashing liquid to clean your container.
  6. Rewash your container thoroughly with water.
  7. Using a microfiber towel, dry your container.
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Use lemon as an alternative solution to remove stains

In the kitchen, we use containers as storage. People often choose plastic over glass because it’s lightweight and more durable. Constant use means getting stains on these containers is unavoidable. Luckily, lemon juice is natural stain remover. It can remove all kinds of stains from cups, clothing, and plastic containers. It’s also a natural disinfectant and can make your kitchen look clean.

When removing stains from plastic containers using lemon juice, follow these steps:

  1. Get the lemon and slice it into halves. Use a clean cloth to absorb the lemon juice.
  2. Rub the stained area with the fabric soaked with lemon juice 
  3. If it’s sunny, you can put your container out in the sun for 30 minutes. The combining of the sun’s heat and lemon juice will naturally remove the stains.
  4. Rewash your container with dish soap.
  5. If you don’t want to use cloth, you can squeeze the juice directly into your plastic container.
  6. Let it sit for 30 minutes. And let the water run over your container to remove the stains residues.
  7. Use dish soap to rewash your plastic container.
  8. Use a clean, dry cloth to let your container dry.

White vinegar can also remove stains from plastic containers

Removing discoloration and stains is one of many things white vinegar is good for. It also works well on getting rid of leftover food stains on your plastic containers. Try another effortless and simple procedure for the best results.

  1. Mix equal parts distilled water and white vinegar.
  2. Get your container and let it soak in the solution for one to two hours. If you notice that the stains are starting to disappear, you can wash it.
  3. Wash your plastic container with dishwashing liquid and water to remove the smell of the vinegar.
  4. Let it dry naturally or using a clean, dry cloth.
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Common questions about stains on plastic containers

Can I use Alka Seltzer to remove stains from plastic easily?

You may know Alka Seltzer as a medication to treat all kinds of ailments, but you can also use it to remove stains on your plastic containers. All you need to do is to melt two tablets of Alka Seltzer in warm water. Put the solution in your stained container. Leave it overnight and wash it thoroughly.

Why does tomato sauce stain plastic?

Our plastic containers are vulnerable to tomato stains for two reasons. Tomatoes’ acidic nature causes it to leave stains easily and plastic readily absorbs most liquids. That’s why most manufacturers use glass materials for packaging tomato sauce, ketchup, and other products.

To get rid of the tomato stains, use the baking soda paste we mentioned above or a white vinegar or lemon solution. It can effectively remove the stains in your plastic container.

Is hot or cold water better for removing stains?

If we are dealing with removing stains on our plastic containers, let’s consider the stain properties. Figuring out what caused the stain will make your life easier when tackling the stains. Usually, if you are dealing with protein-based stains like vomit, blood, and egg, using hot water is the best choice. And cold water is a better choice if you are dealing with beverages, food, or water-based paint.

Is hydrogen peroxide safe for plastic?

It depends on the chemical resistance of your plastic container to hydrogen peroxide and on the temperature and the chemical concentration. It’s generally believed that hydrogen peroxide at 30% at 60°C is safe for most plastic containers. Using hydrogen peroxide can remove algae, blood stains, urine, mold, and other stains on your plastic containers. But using this chemical can be harmful when mishandled, so make sure to take precautionary measures before using hydrogen peroxide when using it to remove stains.

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Wrapping up

Never let your plastic containers go to waste because of stubborn stains. There are different easy-to-do procedures to remove them. Remember, plastic absorbs liquids quickly. It leads to soaking up whatever you put on it.

If your plastic containers become unsightly, try using the baking soda paste method or follow the directions about the lemon or white vinegar processes. Choose the method that’s most convenient for you. Whatever option you choose, you will end up with the same outcome – getting rid of the stains on your plastic containers.

how to remove stains from plastic containers

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