Soap-Man Cleaning Supplies
Kitchen

How to Clean Lunch Box

Keeping your lunch box clean isn't just about appearance -- it's about hygiene and performance. Here's how to do it right, with the supplies you probably already have at home.

What You'll Need

  • Soap-Man Lemon Glow Dish Soap
  • Warm water
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Soft sponge or brush

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Empty and shake out

    Empty all contents and shake out crumbs. Remove any insulating ice packs.

  2. 2

    Wash interior with soapy water

    Use warm soapy water and a soft sponge to wash the interior. Most insulated lunch boxes cannot be machine washed.

  3. 3

    Spot clean fabric exterior

    Spot clean fabric exteriors with a damp cloth and dish soap. Avoid soaking insulated lunch boxes.

  4. 4

    Deodorize with baking soda

    Sprinkle baking soda inside, leave overnight, then shake out and wipe clean. This removes lingering food smells.

  5. 5

    Air dry completely

    Air dry with the lunch box open in a well-ventilated area to prevent mildew growth.

Pro Tips

  • TIPWash your lunch box weekly to prevent bacterial buildup from food residue.
  • TIPUse a small ziploc inside the lunch box to catch spills and make cleanup easier.
  • TIPDry completely before closing -- a damp lunch box grows mold and mildew quickly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • XClosing a wet lunch box, which traps moisture and breeds bacteria and mildew.
  • XSoaking insulated lunch boxes, which damages the insulation layer.
  • XPutting insulated lunch boxes in the washing machine or dryer, which destroys them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some fabric lunch boxes are machine washable -- check the label. Insulated lunch boxes should be hand washed only.