Tiffin boxes are lunch-time lifesavers — but over time, they can start to smell unpleasant even after washing, thanks to lingering food particles, oil residue, or moisture. The good news? You don’t need to throw them away just yet!
Here are 7 tried-and-tested kitchen hacks to remove stubborn smells from your lunch boxes and keep them fresh, clean, and ready for daily use.
🧂 1. Use Baking Soda – Nature’s Deodoriser
Baking soda neutralizes odours naturally.
· Sprinkle a spoonful into the box.
· Add a little water to form a paste.
· Let it sit for 15–30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
💡 Bonus Tip: Store the tiffin with a bit of dry baking soda inside (without closing the lid) to keep it odour-free between uses.
🍋 2. Rub with Lemon or Citrus Peels
Lemon’s natural acids cut through oil and smells.
· Rub a lemon wedge inside the container.
· Let the juice sit for 10 minutes.
· Wash with warm water and mild soap.
🍊 Orange or lime peels also work in a pinch!
🍚 3. Use Vinegar for Deep Cleaning
White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and odour neutralizer.
· Mix equal parts vinegar and warm water.
· Let the mixture sit in the box for 15–20 minutes.
· Rinse and air dry.
💡 Don’t forget the lids — soak them too!
🧼 4. Avoid Storing Oily or Spicy Food Overnight
Foods like curries and gravies leave lingering smells.
· Always rinse the tiffin box soon after use, even if you plan to wash it later.
· Avoid sealing hot, oily food in airtight containers for long hours.
🌞 5. Sun-Dry for Natural Freshness
After washing, leave the boxes in direct sunlight.
· Sunlight naturally kills bacteria and removes moisture — a breeding ground for odours.
☀️ Even 30 minutes of sun can make a huge difference.
🍚 6. Use Rice and Cloves to Absorb Smell
This is a great overnight hack!
· Place a spoon of dry rice and 2–3 cloves in the box.
· Close the lid and leave overnight.
· Throw the rice away in the morning — odour gone!
🧴 7. Switch to Stainless Steel or Glass
If plastic tiffins keep holding on to odours:
· Consider using stainless steel or glass containers, which are less porous and don’t absorb smells easily.
· They're also easier to clean and better for your health.
✅ Final Thoughts
Bad-smelling tiffin boxes can take the joy out of homemade meals. These natural and budget-friendly hacks not only eliminate odours but also extend the life of your containers. With a little extra care, your tiffin can stay as fresh as the food inside!
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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