Plastic containers stained by tomato-based sauces, curries, and oily foods can be cleaned using a simple 65p kitchen ingredient, according to eco-friendly cleaning brand Bio-D.
Foods with tomato-based sauces, curries, and other strongly coloured dishes often leave lingering stains on Tupperware because they contain naturally occurring pigments. When combined with oils and fats, these pigments cling to plastic, and the longer food is left inside, the more noticeable the discolouration becomes.
The 65p solution
Heather Nixon, sustainability manager at Bio-D, recommends bicarbonate of soda. If normal washing up liquid and warm water have not lifted the stain, mix a small amount of bicarbonate of soda with water to make a paste.
Add the water gradually to achieve a thick consistency that will sit on the stained area rather than running off. Allow the mixture to rest for approximately 20 to 30 minutes, then delicately work the paste into the surface using a soft cloth or sponge before rinsing and washing the container thoroughly.
Avoid abrasive scrubbing
Nixon advises against scrubbing the container aggressively with an abrasive scourer, as this can scratch the plastic's surface and create small areas where food residue and odours can collect more easily.
