If your lunch box doesn’t have any decorative embellishments, it’s okay to submerge the entire thing in soapy water for a deeper clean.
If you’re able to, try turning your lunch box inside out so you can clean it out better.
Avoid using scented bleaches since they aren’t food-safe. [5] X Research source Alternatively, you can use an oxygenated bleach to fight against stains and disinfect your lunch bag.
If your lunch box has any decorative designs or embellishments, play it safe and wash it by hand instead. Most insulated lunch boxes can go in your washer, but you may risk damaging the material if the care tag doesn’t say it’s machine safe.
Wash a load of towels at the same time so you don’t waste water only cleaning your lunch box.
Shake or wipe off any excess water on your lunch box with a towel before hanging it up to help it dry a little faster.
Make sure you wipe the handle on your lunch box too since germs can build up on it. You could also wet a cloth with isopropyl alcohol to disinfect and help fight against mold or stains from pens, markers, and food coloring. [11] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
The vinegar smell will go away within a few minutes. Just leave your lunch box open on the counter to let it air out. For lingering odors, wet a paper towel with vinegar and leave it in your lunch box overnight. Wipe the lunch box with a damp cloth in the morning to rinse out any leftover vinegar.
You can also use baking soda to fight stains. Mix equal amounts of baking soda and water to make a thick paste and spread it over the stain. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before wiping it clean. [14] X Research source Denture tablets work great for breaking apart general food stains. Dissolve the tablets in a spray bottle with water then spritz the stain or fill the bottom of your lunch box with water and drop a tablet in. [15] X Research source
