How to Remove Stains From Tupperware

Plastic Tupperware has become a staple in everybody’s kitchen, but they come with a downside: they’re easily stained. And even though those stains are difficult to remove, there are a few hacks you can use to get rid of that tomato glow.

5-Minute Crafts has found 3 simple ways to help you get your Tupperware squeaky clean — almost like brand new again.

Method 1: Sun bleaching

1. Wash your Tupperware as you normally would.

Use soap and water.

2. Let it dry.

You can leave your dishes in the rack or dry them with a kitchen towel.

3. Let it sit in the sun.

Prolonged contact with the sun’s rays is the key to start a process called photodegradation. That’s just another way of saying that plastics can be sensitive to UV rays, which means the stains can be removed when exposed to the sun. The time that you will have to let your Tupperware sit under the sun depends on the season of the year and your location. The more sun, the faster the process takes place.

Method 2: A paste made with baking soda and water

1. Make a baking soda paste.

In a small bowl, mix baking soda with water. Adjust the ratio of both while keeping in mind that the goal is to obtain a spreadable thickish paste.

2. Scrub the paste onto the washed Tupperware.

Spread the paste onto the Tupperware. You can do it with your fingers or by using a brush or a sponge.

3. Let the paste sit.

The time you have to let the paste sit depends on how stained your Tupperware is. It is normally recommended to let the paste sit for about 24 hours before being cleaned.

4. Remove the paste with a damp cloth.

Rinse the washcloth periodically as you wipe.

5. Wash the Tupperware.

Rinse well.

Method 3: With chlorine bleach and warm water

1. Put on plastic gloves.

Chlorine can damage your skin, so when using bleach it is always better to wear plastic gloves.

2. Mix bleach and warm water.

Add a cup of water into a glass or container that you no longer use to store food. Then add one tablespoon of bleach. Mix everything lightly.

3. Pour the resulting solution into the stained Tupperware.

4. Let the container soak for 30 minutes.

Since chlorine can be abrasive, make sure to not let the Tupperware sit longer to avoid the plastic from dissolving.

5. Discard the solution and wash the Tupperware thoroughly.

Chlorine is toxic for your body, especially when consumed in great quantities or concentrations. Make sure you wash the treated Tupperware thoroughly and that there are no signs or smell of chlorine left after washing it.