Storage containers are a necessary part of any kitchen, but often they can start to become smelly after a while. This plastic smell is unpleasant even sometimes you throw it out entirety and buy a new one. You may think “how many times I can buy a new container”?
Therefore, you wonder how to get rid of plastic smell in storage containers? The best way of removing the bad scent is to use baking soda. In addition, there are more tips that you can follow to eliminate the stink and make your storage containers fresh and new again.
So read this article and find out your favorite method to eliminate plastic smells in storage containers.
How to Get Rid of Plastic Smell in Storage Containers By an Expert Chef?
If you’ve ever opened a storage container and been greeted by a strong plastic smell, you know how unpleasant it can be. But there’s no need to get rid of your trusty containers just because of this pesky problem. Here are a few methods for getting rid of that bad smell for good.
Method 1. Vinegar:
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to remove the bad scent from your storage containers is by using white vinegar. All you have to do is fill up the container with vinegar, let it sit for a couple of hours, and then wash it out with running water. Be sure to let the container air dry completely before putting anything back in it.
Method 2. Container with Newspaper:
If you don’t want to use vinegar, you can also try using a container with a newspaper. Just place the crumpled newspaper in the container and sit overnight. The newspaper absorbs the odor, and you can just throw it away in the morning.
Method 3. Coffee Powder:
Another way to get rid of the plastic smell is by using coffee grounds. Just put some coffee grounds in the container and leave them for a few days. The coffee will help neutralize the smell.
Method 4. Baking Soda:
Baking soda is another great way to absorb bad smells. Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the inside of the container. Wait for several hours, and then rinse it out with water.
Method 5. Charcoal:
If you have some activated charcoal lying around, you can also use that to remove the unpleasant odor. Just put a layer of charcoal inside the container and keep it for a few days. The charcoal will neutralize the smell.
Method 6. Lemon Juice:
Another natural way to get rid of bad odors is by using lemon juice. Just fill up your container with lemon juice, let it stand for at least one day, and then rinse it out with water. You can also rub a cut lemon on the inside of the plastic item and then rinse it out.
Method 7. Tea Bags:
If you don’t have any of the other methods lying around, you can also try using tea bags. Just soak a few tea bags in warm water and leave in the container overnight. The tea will help absorb the smell.
Method 8. Salt:
Salt works well for absorbing odors. Just put a layer of salt in the plastic item and let it stand for a few days. The salt will neutralize the smell.
Method 9. Dishwashing Soap:
Dish soap is another great way to remove odors from your containers. Just put a few drops of dish soap in the container and wait several hours. Then rinse it out with water. You can use soapy water to clean the jar as well.
Method 10. Hot Water:
If all else fails, you can also try boiling water in your container. Just pour hot water into the container and wait for a few minutes. The boiling water will help get rid of the smell.
Method 11. Essential Oil:
If you want to use a natural method and have some essential oils lying around, you can also try that. Just add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the sealed container and leave it for 24 hours then rinse the container clean.
Method 12. Dry Rice:
If you’re looking for a natural way to eliminate the odor and you have some dry rice lying around, you can also try using that. Just put a layer of rice in the storage container and let it sit for a few days. The rice will absorb the smell.
Method 13. Heat with Sun Rays or Oven:
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, you can also try heating up your plastic storage container with sun rays. Just place your jar on a sunny day outside and let the sun do its job. The fresh air helps to deodorize your jar.
Sun’s natural ability to kill bacteria will help get rid of the smell. You can also try using your oven to heat up your container. Just preheat your oven and place your container in there for several hours. The heat will help get rid of the smell.
Method 14. Air Refresher:
If you’re looking for a quick and easy solution, you can also try using an air refresher. Just spray it inside the container and let it sit for a few hours. It may help get rid of the smell.
Precautions:
There are some precautions you should take when trying to get rid of the plastic smell.
- Make sure not to use any methods if your container has food inside. The chemicals or odors from the methods could contaminate your food.
- Be careful when using hot water, especially if you have a plastic container. The hot water could melt the plastic.
- If you’re using a method that involves leaving the container open, make sure to keep an eye on it, so nothing bad happens.
- When using oven or sun methods, be careful not to start a fire.
How to Prevent the Smell in the First Place?
There are some things you can do to prevent the odor from happening in the first place.
- Make sure to wash your containers with soap and water after each use.
- If you’re not going to be using a jar for a while, make sure to wipe it and let it breathe.
- Store your plastic items in a dry place.
- If you have a refrigerator, make sure to blow it out now and then to prevent bad odors.
- You can also try using a deodorizer to provide a fresh scent.
By following the above tips, you can help prevent the plastic smell from happening.
What are the Alternatives to Plastic Containers?
If you’re looking for an alternative to plastic containers, you can try using glass or metal containers.
Glass Containers:
Glass containers are a good option because they’re durable and can be used in the fridge or freezer.
Metal Containers:
Metal containers are also a good option because they’re durable and won’t rust. They can also be used in the fridge or freezer.
Paper or Cardboard Containers:
If you’re looking for a disposable option, you can try using paper or cardboard containers. Paper and cardboard containers are a good option because they’re biodegradable and recyclable.
Using one of these alternatives can help get rid of the plastic smell in your storage containers.
FAQs:
01. Does PVC Have an Odor?
The bad odor from plastic food containers is usually emitted when the item is new, but this can also depend on the type of plastic the product is made of. PVC is a type of plastic that can have a strong chemical smell.
02. Is Plastic Smell Toxic?
While the fumes from plastic storage containers can be unpleasant, it is not usually toxic. However, if you are experiencing a strong, bad scent from your container, it is best to avoid breathing in the fumes. The bad plastic smell can increase the risk of headaches, nausea, and other health problems.
03. Can I Reuse a Plastic Container if it Smells Bad?
If your plastic item water bottle, box, or storage bin doesn’t have a strong smell, you can reuse it by removing the smell. However, If your plastic container has a strong chemical smell, it is best to avoid using it again. The bad odor can contaminate the food you store in it.
04. What does Plastic Smell like?
The different smells that are found in plastic packaging waste can be quite pungent. The molecules that create these odors can be cheesy mouldy, or acidic. Many of these odors are caused by the degradation of plastic.
Conclusion:
Plastic storage containers have become popular for their affordable prices and lightweight and durable features. However, the bad scent emitted from new plastic containers can be overwhelming and nauseating.
Throughout this article, we outlined a variety of options for how to get rid of plastic smell in storage containers. Just try one of these methods, and you’ll be good to go. If you’re still experiencing the smell, it might be time to replace your container.
We recommend using glass, metal, or cardboard containers as an alternative to plastic containers. They are more environmentally friendly and durable. You can also recycle them. Hopefully, this article helped you get rid of that unpleasant smell.