How to Clean Stained Plastic Chopping Boards with Soda Crystals
Stained plastic boards come back to life after a Soda Crystals scrub or soak.
Takes 10 minutes, or a soak of a few hours
What you’ll need
- 1–2 tbsp Soda Crystals
- Hot water
- Sponge, Brush or Scourer
- Rubber gloves
Method 1: lightly stained
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of Soda Crystals onto your damp chopping board.
- Soak a cloth or sponge in hot water and use it to scrub the board and remove stains.
- Rinse very well to remove any residue and dry afterwards.
Method 2: heavier staining
- Fill a bowl or sink with warm water.
- Add 2 tablespoons of Soda Crystals to about 4 litres of water and let them dissolve completely.
- Soak the chopping board for a couple of hours or overnight if possible, then scrub.
- Rinse very well to remove any residue and dry afterwards.
To deep clean stained and discoloured plastic chopping boards.
Food stains in plastic are mostly oils and pigments. Alkalinity breaks them down.
The science: Sodium carbonate (PubChem, NIH) →
Whilst Soda Crystals are a natural cleaning wonder, there are some things that should not be cleaned with them because of their abrasive properties (can scratch delicate surfaces).
Polished/Waxed/Lacquered Surfaces:
Due to its abrasiveness, Soda Crystals should not be used on fibreglass or polished/waxed surfaces as they may cause damage. The same applies to lacquered or varnished surfaces as Soda Crystals can damage the lacquer and leave a dull finish.
Aluminium:
Soda Crystals should not be used on aluminium products, such as aluminium pans, utensils, or window frames. This is because Soda Crystals can corrode aluminium and will discolour them.
Store Soda Crystals in a labelled airtight container in a cool and dry place, out of reach of kids and pets. Get a container with a tight seal, such as our glass jars to maximise its shelf life, but it also makes it easier to scoop out when needed for cleaning.
Whilst Soda Crystals are a very environmentally friendly and safe Natural Cleaning ingredient, it is important to bear in mind that it is still a chemical. As such the powder can still cause damage and irritation if handled incorrectly.
It is not edible, should not be inhaled, and can damage eyes (flush the exposed areas with large quantities of water). Wear gloves when cleaning with Soda Crystals as prolonged contact with the skin when used in high concentrations can also cause irritation.
Quick questions
Can I do this with wooden boards?
No. Use our Bicarbonate of Soda method for wood.
Does it disinfect?
It cleans. For raw meat boards, wash in very hot water and dry well.
Try this next: Microwave Steam Clean →
