Say Goodbye to Stained Containers with These Easy Tricks

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda directly on the stained area, then add just enough water to form a paste. Let it sit for about fifteen minutes, then scrub with a sponge. Baking soda is mildly abrasive, so it gently removes discoloration without damaging the plastic.

Fill the container with warm soapy water and let it soak for a couple of hours. This softens any greasy residue and makes the stain easier to remove. Once it soaks, wash it like normal and many stains fade dramatically.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water, then soak the container for about thirty minutes. Vinegar cuts through trapped odors too, so it leaves the container smelling fresh. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a boost; lemon's natural bleaching qualities brighten the plastic with a clean, citrus scent.

Pour enough hydrogen peroxide into the container to cover the stain, add a teaspoon of baking soda, and let the mixture sit for an hour. This combo lifts deep stains and lightens the plastic at the same time. Rinse thoroughly when you are done.

After washing the container, place it outside in direct sunlight for a few hours. Natural UV light helps fade stains and brighten the plastic, and it is surprisingly effective, especially for tomato-based stains.

Add a handful of ice cubes and a few tablespoons of coarse salt to the container, then swirl everything around. The friction from the salt and ice helps scrub away stains without harsh chemicals.

Lightly spray your plastic container with cooking oil before adding foods that tend to stain. This creates a thin barrier that keeps sauces from bonding to the plastic. Letting hot foods cool before storing them also helps, since heat makes staining more likely.

With a few of these tricks in your back pocket, your plastic containers can look almost brand new again.