How to Care for Plastic

Plastic is durable and can be cleaned with most household cleaning products, such as all-purpose cleansers, diluted chlorine bleach, vinegar, and ammonia. Never mix chlorine bleach with ammonia, as they give off toxic fumes when combined. Avoid harsh abrasive cleansers, which can scratch plastic.

To remove stains from plastic, scrub lightly with baking soda mixed with enough liquid dish detergent to form a paste. Also try mixing 1 ounce of lemon juice with 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar. Blot into the stain and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Tomato stains can be tough to remove from plastic food containers, but filling the container with water, dropping in a denture cleaning tablet such as Polident, and soaking overnight may work. Stains caused by sauce that’s been microwaved in the plastic container are virtually impossible to remove.

Keep plastic clean, as dirt and dust may wear away the surface. Extended periods of direct sunlight will fade plastic, so don’t store colored items in the sun. Heat can damage plastic, causing it to warp or melt. Wash plastic in the dishwasher only if the item is labeled “dishwasher safe,” and keep plastic away from heat sources.

To repair broken plastic items, use a food-safe two-part epoxy glue, which you can find at a local hardware store.