Food containers often become extremely difficult to clean once they are coated with grease, especially plastic containers. Even when washed thoroughly with hot water and dishwashing liquid, the greasy residue can still remain, leaving an unpleasant slippery or sticky feeling on the surface.

To effectively remove grease from food containers and restore their cleanliness, you can try the practical methods below.

1. Warm Water, Dish Soap, and Paper Towels

To clean greasy plastic or glass containers, pour a small amount of warm water into the container, add a few drops of dishwashing liquid, and place 2–3 sheets of paper towels inside. Close the lid tightly and shake vigorously for at least 10 seconds. The paper towels will absorb most of the oil and grease. Afterward, simply rinse the container thoroughly with clean water. This quick method is especially useful for lightly to moderately greasy containers.

2. Using Cornstarch and Vinegar

Mix one teaspoon of cornstarch with vinegar to create a thick paste. Spread the mixture evenly inside the container, ensuring it covers all greasy areas. Cornstarch helps absorb oil, while vinegar breaks down grease. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then wash the container with dish soap and rinse with clean water as usual. This method is particularly effective for stubborn grease buildup.

3. Using Baking Soda

Baking soda is a widely used natural cleaning agent known for removing tough stains, including grease. If you have baking soda in your kitchen, mix it with water at a 3:1 ratio to form a paste. Apply the paste to the greasy areas of the container and leave it overnight. The next day, scrub lightly and wash the container with dishwashing liquid. This method not only removes grease but also helps eliminate lingering odors.

4. Using Vinegar

Vinegar contains acetic acid, which is highly effective at breaking down grease. Soak a paper towel or cloth with vinegar and wipe the entire container, focusing on heavily greased spots. For better results, let the vinegar sit for a few minutes before washing the container with dish soap and water. Vinegar is also helpful in deodorizing plastic containers.

5. Using Lemon

Lemon is excellent for both cleaning and deodorizing. Cut a fresh lemon in half and rub it directly over the greasy areas of the container. Leave it to sit for 1–2 hours so the natural acids can dissolve the grease more effectively. Afterward, wash the container with dish soap and rinse thoroughly. This method leaves the container smelling fresh and clean.

6. Using Hot Salt Water

This is a popular and effective method for cleaning greasy kitchen utensils and food containers. Prepare a basin of hot water and add a generous amount of salt, stirring until dissolved. Soak the container in the solution for about 10 minutes, then wash it with dishwashing liquid as usual. The grease will loosen and come off easily.
Note: Before using hot water on plastic containers, always check whether the container is heat-resistant to avoid warping or damage.