How to Clean Plastic Food Containers (Including Stubborn Stains), According to Industry Pros

For many of us, plastic food storage containers are a kitchen staple, keeping our leftovers fresh and weekly meal prep organized. However, stubborn stains, lingering odors, and greasy residues can turn our convenient food storage solution into a source of frustration. Foods with vibrant colors such as tomato-based sauces, red veggies, and curries containing turmeric often leave their mark, turning your favorite containers into grimy eyesores. But learning how to clean plastic storage containers effectively isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s also essential for extending the lifespan of your kitchen storage products. 

Ahead, we’ll explore simple yet effective cleaning methods recommended by experts—from everyday upkeep to tackling tough stains and odors. With a few practical tips and tricks, you can keep your plastic containers spotless and odor-free and your leftovers fresh. 

How to Wash to Prevent Staining on Food Storage Containers

According to Tammy Snook Quezada, head of global communications and public relations at Tupperware, the following stain-and-odor prevention method will help keep containers fresh and clean.  

1. Wash With Cold Water: “Remember that hot water sets colors, grease, and odors," says Quezada. "To prevent your containers from becoming greasy and sticky, always wash them first with cold water and dish soap."
2. Follow Up With Warm Water: After washing in cold water, clean the container with warm, soapy water to remove any remaining residue.
3. Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the container is completely dry before storing or reusing to prevent stickiness or odor retention.

If your plastic storage containers are dishwasher safe, be sure to pre-wash containers in cold water and then warm soapy water. After rinsing, you can then place them in the dishwasher for a thorough cleaning. (The hot water and steam of your dishwasher can set stains otherwise!)

How to Remove Odors from Plastic Storage Containers

Did a leftover meal leave behind a lingering smell? Try one of the below methods to remove odors from plastic storage containers.

Freezing Method (for Freezer-Safe Containers)

1. Wash the container thoroughly.
2. Fill it with cold water and freeze overnight. 
3. Remove the ice, and the odor should be gone.

Newspaper Method

1. Moisten a sheet of newspaper with cold water, wring it out, and place it inside the container.
2. Store the container in the fridge for 24 hours.
3. Remove the paper, rinse, and dry. The odor should leave with the paper. 

Outdoor Method

1. Wash the container with cold water.
2. Place it upside down on clean grass overnight. (The humidity will help remove odors!)
   

Baking Soda Method

1. Add about a quarter cup of baking soda to a dry container.
2. Put the lid on and leave it for 24 hours.
3. Wash with cold water and dish soap. 

How to Remove Greasy Stains from Plastic Storage Containers

Kaylie Hill, a Scotch-Brite ambassador and cleaning influencer, suggests two quick methods to remove stains from your plastic storage containers. Remember: You can stop stains before they happen by never putting hot food into your containers. (Food that has cooled is less likely to stain and create odors.)

Dish Soap Method

1. Add a small amount of dish soap and water to your container. 
2. Put a paper towel inside the container and close the lid. 
3. Shake it vigorously for 30 seconds and rinse it clean.

Vinegar Method

• Fill your container with white vinegar.
• Let it sit for two to three hours.  
• Wash it clean with dish soap and a textured sponge.

How to Sanitize Food Storage Containers

Once in a while, a storage container may be forgotten in the back of the refrigerator leading to odors and mold. This doesn’t have to mean throwing the entire container away. Many storage containers can be sanitized with bleach. 

1. Clean the Container: Wash the container with cool soapy water to remove any residue. Rinse thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Bleach Solution: Mix 1 tablespoon of bleach per 1 gallon of water in a large basin or sink. (Ensure the bleach is unscented and food-safe.)
3. Sanitize the Containers: Submerge the container completely in the bleach solution. Allow it to soak for at least two to five minutes to kill bacteria and sanitize.
4. Allow to Air Dry: Remove the container from the solution and air dry completely. Wash by hand or in the dishwasher before use.