Pyrex containers are a great addition to any kitchen. They are a convenient way to store, heat and serve all kinds of food items. Unfortunately, as anyone who has ever cleaned out the fridge knows, there are times when items get caught forgotten and we find mystery packs instead of attractive, well-marked food packages inside. It’s almost tempting to toss the whole container rather than play, “What was it?” with the food experiment trapped inside. Depending on how long the stuff has been caught in the container, you may end up with a slimy soup, and the stink defies description. It just stinks.
There is no need to sacrifice good containers simply because they absorbed some nasty food odors along the way. Not all reeky plastic situations have to do with a lengthy stay in the fridge. The plastic used to make these containers can also absorb strong food odors. Check out the solutions listed here to find out how you can remove the stank from your Pyrex containers and lids and restore them to their former sweet smelling state.
How to Get Smell Out of Pyrex Containers and Lids
1 Bleach the Stink Out
Soak the container and lid in a solution of bleach and hot water. If the plastic is stained and stinky, the bleach will look after the stench, but may not bring the plastic back to its original, pristine color. Soak the items for several minutes to give the bleach time to work. You can even leave them in the water overnight. Rinse thoroughly in cool water before using.
2 Rub the Surface with Lemon
Citrus juice can help to get rid of various kinds of funk from surfaces. Start by cutting a lemon. Rub the funked-up side of the container with the pulp. Repeat with the lid if it is causing you a problem. Rinse with water and dry.
3 Salt the Problem Away
Start by washing the plastic containers and lids. While they are still wet, coat them in salt. Let the salt sit on the plastic for a few minutes. Rinse and allow to dry. The salt will remove the odor from the plastic.
4 Baking Soda and Water Soak
Soak the plastic containers in a solution of baking soda and water. The baking soda is a good choice, since it will not scratch the surface of the plastic. The items can be soaked for 20-30 minutes or longer, and you should rinse them in warm water to remove all traces of baking soda before using them again.
5 BonAmi Liquid Cleanser Solution
Bon Ami products are available online or at select hardware and other retail stores. The company makes an all-purpose cleaner that can be used to get the smell out of Pyrex containers. It can also be used on pet stains, food spills, oily messes, floors, windows and many other places around the house. This product comes in a spray bottle. Use as directed.
6 Use Vinegar on the Problem
If you are dealing with a strong smell like onion, fill up the container with a solution of three parts water to one part vinegar. Place the lid on the container and leave it on the countertop overnight. Remove the lid in the morning and clean the container with warm water and bleach.
7 Frozen Newspaper Trick
This solution combines a couple of different elements to get a funky smell out of your Pyrex containers. Start by wetting some newspapers with a vinegar and water solution (three parts water to one part vinegar). Crumble up the newspaper and fill up the container. Put the lid on top. Place the container into the freezer and leave it in place overnight. Remove the container from the freezer the next morning and take the paper out. Wash the container in a warm water and bleach solution.
8 Let the Sunshine (and Lemon Juice) In
Start by cutting a lemon in half and rubbing it on the stinky containers and lids. Next, place them outside in a sunny spot for a day or so. The combination of lemon juice and the sun’s rays should effectively banish the stank. You will probably want to wash them out with some dish soap and give them a good rinse before you use them for food storage again.
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