Reusable silicone bags are excellent for food storage but have one significant cleaning challenge: silicone is porous enough to absorb odours from strong-smelling foods like garlic, onion, and fish, and the oils from these foods are difficult to fully remove with regular washing. Proper technique makes the difference between a bag that smells clean and one that always has a lingering odour.
Standard Washing
- Turn the bag inside out — this exposes the interior surface that contacts food directly for the most effective cleaning
- Wash with warm water and dish soap, using a small bottle brush or sponge to scrub the interior surfaces and all corners
- Rinse thoroughly — soap residue can transfer to food
- Turn right-side-out again and rinse once more
- Allow to dry completely inside out before storing — a closed damp silicone bag develops mildew odour
Dishwasher
- Most silicone bags are dishwasher safe — check the manufacturer's rating; most are top-rack safe
- Turn inside out before placing in the dishwasher; prop open slightly so water reaches the inside
- High-heat dishwasher cycles help sanitize but can slightly accelerate silicone degradation over many cycles
Removing Stubborn Odours (Garlic, Fish, Onion)
- Fill the bag with a mixture of warm water, a splash of white vinegar, and a teaspoon of baking soda
- Seal and shake, then allow to soak for 30 minutes
- Pour out and wash normally
- Allow to dry completely — airing in sunlight for a few hours is effective for odour removal, as UV exposure helps break down the volatile organic compounds causing the smell
When to Replace
- Replace when the silicone becomes cloudy, discoloured, or the seal no longer closes tightly
- Persistent odours that survive multiple cleanings indicate the silicone has absorbed oils too deeply to be fully cleaned — replace the bag