To clean a lunch box, simply wash using a sponge and warm, soapy water. Turn upside-down and let air dry. Just leave baking soda in a smelly lunch box or bag overnight to make it fresh. In the morning, dispose of it and clean it.
Please read on.
How to Clean a Lunch Box
Throw It in the Washing Machine
This is something that might seem like an absolute “don’t,” but check your lunch bag’s label. There is a good chance that you can wash the exterior of an insulated lunch bag with a plastic core even though it obviously cannot be washed in the washing machine.
If the care instructions included with your lunch bag state that washing it in the washing machine is acceptable, you may do so. Even if there isn’t a tag with care instructions, there’s a good chance your lunch bag is sturdy enough to withstand washing.
You can try washing your bag in your washing machine’s delicate cycle and then letting it air dry if you’re bold and willing to spend money on a new lunch bag.
Hand Wash Stains
- Prepare your sink. A ΒΌ cup of Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner should be added to the warm sink water.
- Wash. Wipe the inside and outside of the lunch box with the cleaning solution and a sponge or soft cloth. Put it in the water if it can be submerged, scrub it thoroughly, paying particular attention to problem areas.
- Scrub, if necessary. Use a soft bristle brush or an old toothbrush to remove gunk and grime if there is a heavier buildup of grime, especially in cracks and crevices.
- Rinse and dry. Clean off with water, then pat dry with a towel or paper towel. If the lunchbox has insulation, make sure it is completely dry before using it again. Here, a hair dryer can be useful, particularly if the box is made of metal.
Get Rid of Unpleasant Smells
It might be time to give your lunch bag some tender loving care if it starts to smell a little like your gym locker.
Step 1: Locate a spray bottle, then add some bleach drops to the water in the bottle.
Step 2: Spray the cleaning solution inside your lunch bag and then wipe it down with a dry cloth.
Step 3: Leave your bag open while it dries so that it can dry completely. It’s also a good idea to avoid having bleach odor inside your bag.
Opt for An Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solution
It’s okay if using bleach on food-related items makes you feel a little uneasy. There is another way to eliminate odors from your lunch bag or other food storage containers.
Step 1: Until a paste forms, combine water and baking soda.
Step 2: Your lunchbox’s interior should be covered with paste, which you should let dry. The paste will need to be scrubbed away, but the bad odors should be gone.
Step 3: Try the bleach method first, then the baking soda method if your lunch bag really does have some unpleasant odors.
What is a PEVA Liner in Lunch Bags?
Inside of coolers and lunch bags, a PEVA liner is a vinyl lining that resists water. In addition to being an excellent insulator, this liner also aids in preventing leaks when there are cold beverages or ice packs inside.
The PEVA liner in your lunch bag can be cleaned by dabbing a damp paper towel on it or by using an antibacterial wipe. In order to find any stains or crumbs hiding in the corners, turn it inside out.
How to Clean a Metal Lunch Box
Metal lunch boxes don’t hold odors like insulated bags, but they can still become somewhat dirty over time. By rinsing it with warm, soapy water and drying it with a fresh towel, you can quickly clean yours.
Here are a few other tips:
- For cleaning difficult-to-reach places and corners, use a Q-tip.
- Do not immerse your lunchbox in a soapy sink. Instead, lightly clean everything down by dipping the sponge in.
- Use antibacterial wipes to sanitize your lunchbox after washing.
- Before storing any food inside, make sure the entire area is dry.
How Often Should You Clean Your Lunch Box?
Despite how hectic life can be, you should still make an effort to wash your lunch bag at least once a week. This lessens the possibility of offensive odors and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria.
Analyze your schedule to determine what suits you the most.
Try to clean your lunchbox or bag on Fridays, if you can. You have to clean out a week’s worth of lunches! Furthermore, it gives you a regular day to clean, which makes it simpler for you to fit it into your routine.
If you want to clean your lunchbox or bag, you have options! Your life will be easier because some items can simply be thrown into the dishwasher or washing machine. Clean according to your best judgment.
