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Lifestyle Desk – Be it school, office or going out somewhere, lunch box has become a necessity for everyone today. This is the easiest and convenient option to take home food with you. But one problem that often bothers those who use lunch boxes for a long time is the bad smell coming from the lunch box. Especially after dal, milk, curd, chutney or spicy vegetable is spilled, its smell does not go away easily.

In fact, many insulated lunch bags and boxes use a layer of thermal insulation and foam. On top of this there is a layer of cloth, which is attached through stitching. If a small amount of food gets between these layers or into the stitching area, its particles may remain inside even with normal cleaning. Some people simply clean the outer cloth layer with a wet cloth or tissue. After some time, these remaining particles become the cause of bad smell. Let us know the ways to get rid of this smell.

First of all do immediate cleaning

After putting food in the lunch box, do not leave it till the next day. The sooner food remains are cleaned, the less chance there will be of odors penetrating inside. Empty the box by removing any remaining food and wash or sanitize according to manufacturer's instructions.

Clean with baking soda

If a slight odor still persists after washing the box, baking soda may be helpful. Prepare a paste by mixing baking soda in some water and apply it on the area with bad smell. After some time, wipe it with a clean cloth. After this let the box dry completely. Avoid overwatering a foam or cloth insulated box.

You can use white vinegar

White vinegar is also used to remove odor. You can make a mild solution of water and white vinegar and wipe the inside and outside surface with the help of a cloth. However, it is better to test any cleaning solution on a small part of the box before applying it to the entire surface. Especially if it has printed or delicate fabric.

Sunlight and air are also necessary

After cleaning, do not immediately close the lunch box and keep it in the cupboard. Open it completely and dry it in an airy place. If the manufacturer's care instructions allow it, a brief exposure to natural air or mild sunlight may also help reduce moisture. Keeping a wet or damp box closed may cause the odor to re-emerge.

avoid these mistakes

To stop the smell of lunch box, it is not only important to clean it but also to change some habits. Remove any residue left in the box immediately after eating. Do not keep it closed by just wiping it superficially with a wet cloth. Additionally, read the label instructions on your insulated lunch bag before over-wetting it or using harsh chemical cleaners.
If odors persist after cleaning or food has penetrated the foam/insulation, it may be safer and more practical to replace the box.