How to clean a lunch box? Quick tips for removing stubborn stains

 left for a long time.Even after scrubbing for a long time,they still can't be removed completely,and there is a concern that if not cleaned properly,there will be bacteria,which will affect the next use.Today,I will share with you the correct cleaning method for lunch boxes in the most colloquial way,as well as some quick tricks for removing stubborn stains.It is simple and easy to operate,even beginners can master it without worrying about cleaning the lunch box.

1.Daily cleaning steps for lunch boxes(3 simple steps to avoid residue)

When cleaning lunch boxes daily,the key is"timely".Don't wait until the stains become hard before cleaning.Otherwise,it will increase the cleaning difficulty and easily breed bacteria.Remember these 3 steps,and you can easily clean them and also extend the service life of the lunch box.

Step 1:Clear the remaining residue in time.After lunch,empty the remaining food residue in the lunch box as much as possible.Try to clean it thoroughly to avoid the residue sticking to the box wall and being difficult to clean when it dries.If there are large pieces of residue like bones or vegetable leaves,throw them in the trash instead of leaving them in the box.

Step 2:Soak in warm water to soften.Pour an appropriate amount of warm water into the lunch box,covering the stain area.Soak for 5-10 minutes.This can soften the oil stains and food residue on the box wall,making the subsequent cleaning easier.Don't use too hot water,especially for plastic lunch boxes.High temperature can cause the plastic to deform and may release harmful substances.

Step 3:Gentle cleaning,rinse and dry.After soaking,squeeze in a small amount of neutral detergent(don't use strong alkaline ones,as they can corrode the lunch box and may leave residues).Use a soft sponge or soft cloth to gently wipe the box walls,lid,and sealing ring.Especially the gaps of the sealing ring,which are the most likely to hide stains and bacteria.Be sure to clean them carefully.After cleaning,rinse with flowing water to ensure no foam remains.Then open the lid and place it in a ventilated place to dry.Avoid dampness to prevent the growth of bacteria.

2.Targeted removal of various stubborn stains(quick and convenient)

If you forget to clean in time and there are stubborn stains on the lunch box,don't rub hard.Use different methods for different stains to easily remove them without damaging the lunch box.

1.Oil stains(the most common,such as red-braised meat,stir-fried vegetable oil stains)

The oil stains stick to the box wall and are not easy to clean with soap.Teach you two small methods.Method 1:Squeeze a little soap on the stain area,then sprinkle a little baking soda,pour in warm water,soak for 15 minutes.Baking soda has a strong oil-removing ability.After soaking,wipe with a soft cloth.The oil stains will be removed;Method 2:Use a lemon slice to wipe.The citric acid in the lemon can break down the oil stains.Cut the lemon slice into small pieces,dip in water,and wipe the oil stain area repeatedly.After wiping,rinse with clean water.It can not only remove the oil but also remove the odor.

2.Food stains,porridge stains(such as dried rice,porridge base)

When the food stains become dry and hard,they will stick tightly to the box wall.Rubbing hard is likely to scratch the lunch box.The correct way is:Pour warm water into the lunch box and add a spoonful of white vinegar.Soak for 20 minutes.White vinegar can soften the dry food stains.After soaking,wipe with a soft cloth.The food stains will fall off without damaging the box surface.If there are still a few residues,use an old toothbrush to gently brush them off,and it can be completely cleaned.

3.Tea stains,coffee stains(such as lunch boxes used for tea or coffee)

Tea stains and coffee stains will leave marks on the box wall.Over time,they are difficult to remove.You can use salt to wipe.Sprinkle a little salt on the stain area,dip in water,and wipe repeatedly.The friction of salt can remove the marks without scratching the box surface;You can also use toothpaste.Squeeze a little toothpaste on the stain area,gently wipe,and after cleaning,rinse with clean water.The marks will completely disappear.

4.Odor residue(after cleaning,there is still an odor)

Sometimes,even after cleaning the lunch box,there is still a smell of food,especially for plastic lunch boxes.You can put a few slices of lemon or a small amount of white vinegar into the box,cover it,and let it stand for 30 minutes.Both the lemon and the white vinegar can absorb odors and also kill bacteria.You can also sprinkle some baking soda into the box,cover it,and let it stand overnight.The next day,remove the baking soda,rinse it with clean water,and the odor will completely disappear.

III.Important Precautions for Cleaning Lunch Boxes(Avoiding Pitfalls and Not Damaging)

1.Avoid using hard-bristled brushes or steel wool to clean.Whether it's a plastic,glass or stainless steel lunch box,hard brushes will scratch the surface,making it easier for stains and bacteria to hide.Try to use soft sponges,soft cloths or old toothbrushes instead.

2.Different lunch boxes made of different materials require different cleaning methods:Glass lunch boxes can be cleaned with warm water and dish soap,and can be put in the dishwasher.Plastic lunch boxes should not be washed with hot water and should not be put in the dishwasher,as they are prone to deformation and aging.Stainless steel lunch boxes should not use strong alkaline cleaners,as they will corrode the surface and cause rust.

3.The sealing ring must be cleaned separately.Remove the sealing ring,use a soft cloth dipped in dish soap to carefully wipe the gaps,rinse it clean,dry it,and then put it back into the lunch box to avoid stains and bacteria hiding in the gaps.

4.After cleaning the lunch box thoroughly,it must be completely dried before covering the lid and storing it.Avoid a humid environment that can breed bacteria.It is best to store it in a ventilated and dry place.Do not store it sealed.

In summary,the key to cleaning lunch boxes is"timely cleaning and gentle operation".Targeted treatment for stubborn stains,and pay attention to some small details.This can not only quickly clean them,but also extend the service life of the lunch box,ensure safety of use,and save you from worrying about cleaning lunch boxes.Share this with the lunch packers,and don't worry about cleaning lunch boxes anymore!