Keeping Plasticware Clean

For some reason keeping plasticware clean can be somewhat difficult. If they aren't getting stains from what they hold, then they are getting dirty sitting in their storage spots. There is simply something about them that seems to like collecting stains, and never letting them go. However, just because it can be a little complicated to keep plasticware clean doesn't mean that it is impossible. Here are a few methods that you can use to not only get your plasticware clean, but keep them that way when they are not being used.

• "Season" your plasticware. With the help of a little bit of oil, you can actually "season" your plasticware and avoid a lot of cooking stains. Simply coat the interior of the containers with a thin layer of cooking oil, and you will have a barrier that prevents any stains from getting through to the plastic underneath.
• Cover it all up. When storing the plasticware, try to have it covered up if at all possible. While this may not generally prevent the storage stains from appearing, they will prevent any of the staining material from getting into the containers. If you are unable, or unwilling to cover the containers, then store them upside down instead.
• Bleach can get rid of many things. If you find yourself with some dirty plasticware, try using a little bit of bleach to get rid of the problem. Create a mixture of 1 part bleach and 6 parts water, and soak the containers. Leave the containers to soak until you notice the stains beginning to disappear. With some stains you may need to do some scrubbing, but all this should get rid of a majority of the storage stains that you find yourself faced with. Another method that you can use to get rid of stains is to make a paste out of bleach and some powdered cleaner. Apply the paste to the plastic, and let it sit overnight. In the morning wash it away and you will notice that the stain is gone.
• White vinegar. A great cleaner that you more than likely have around the house already is white vinegar. Create a mixture of 50% water and 50% vinegar, and pour it into the container. If the stain is on the outside, put the mixture in a larger container, and then place the plasticware into the mixture. Allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes, and then wash as you normally would. This should remove most light to medium stains.