Coffee is a beloved beverage enjoyed by millions of people around the world. However, one downside to coffee is that it can leave behind a strong and lingering smell, especially on plastic items such as travel mugs, coffee makers, and storage containers. This can be particularly bothersome if you’re using these plastic items for other purposes and don’t want them to smell like coffee. Luckily, there are some easy hacks that can help you remove the coffee smell from plastic. In this article, I’ll share with you a few effective methods that you can try at home. So, let’s dive in and explore these easy hacks together!
Using Baking Soda
Method 1: Baking Soda Paste
One of the simplest and most effective ways to remove coffee smell from plastic is by using a baking soda paste. Baking soda is known for its deodorizing properties, making it a perfect ingredient for this task.
To create a baking soda paste, start by mixing equal parts baking soda and water in a small bowl. Stir the mixture until it forms a thick and smooth paste. Once your paste is ready, apply it to the plastic surface that has absorbed the coffee smell. Use a clean cloth or sponge to rub the paste gently onto the plastic, making sure to cover the entire area. Let the paste sit on the plastic for about 15-20 minutes, allowing it to work its magic and absorb the coffee odor.
After the waiting time, rinse the plastic item thoroughly with warm water. Make sure to remove all traces of the baking soda paste to avoid any potential taste or residue. Dry the plastic item using a clean towel or air-dry it naturally. You should notice a significant reduction in the coffee smell after using this method.
Method 2: Baking Soda Soak
If you’re dealing with a larger plastic item such as a coffee maker or a plastic food container with a persistent coffee smell, a baking soda soak might be a more suitable option. This method allows the baking soda to penetrate deeper into the plastic and neutralize the odor effectively.
To start, fill a sink or basin with warm water. Add about one cup of baking soda to the water, stirring it gently to dissolve. Submerge the plastic item in the baking soda solution, making sure it is completely covered. Allow the plastic to soak for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for stronger odors.
Once the soaking time is complete, remove the plastic from the baking soda solution and rinse it thoroughly with warm water. Be sure to rinse off any residual baking soda. Dry the plastic item completely before using it again.
Vinegar Magic
Method 1: Vinegar Wipe Down
Vinegar is another excellent option for eliminating coffee smells from plastic items. Its acidic nature helps to neutralize odors effectively. To use vinegar for this purpose, you can adopt the vinegar wipe-down method.
Begin by diluting vinegar with an equal amount of water in a spray bottle or a bowl. If you find the vinegar smell too strong, you can add a few drops of essential oil to mask the scent. Spray or apply the vinegar solution onto the plastic surface, making sure to cover all areas. Allow the vinegar to sit on the plastic for about 10-15 minutes.
Next, use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe down the plastic, removing the vinegar solution. Rinse the plastic under warm water to remove any remaining vinegar. Dry the item thoroughly before use. The vinegar should have effectively neutralized the coffee smell, leaving your plastic item odor-free.
Method 2: Vinegar Steam Clean
For large plastic items that are difficult to wipe down, such as a coffee maker, you can opt for a vinegar steam clean. This method helps to tackle stubborn coffee smells that might be trapped in the nooks and crannies of your appliances.
To perform a vinegar steam clean, fill your coffee maker’s water reservoir with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Start the brewing cycle as if you were making a pot of coffee, but without adding any coffee grounds. The hot vinegar steam will help eliminate the coffee odor from the internal components of the coffee maker.
After the brewing cycle is complete, pour out the vinegar solution and rinse the coffee maker thoroughly with fresh water. Run another brewing cycle with water only to ensure that there are no traces of vinegar left behind. This method should effectively remove the coffee smell from your coffee maker.
Lemon Freshness
Method 1: Lemon Juice Wipe
Lemon juice is not only refreshing but also a natural deodorizer. Its pleasant scent can help mask and eliminate coffee smells from plastic. To use lemon juice for this purpose, cut a fresh lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a bowl. You can also use bottled lemon juice if fresh lemons are not available.
Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the lemon juice and use it to wipe down the plastic surface thoroughly. Make sure to cover all areas with the lemon juice. Allow the juice to sit on the plastic for about 10-15 minutes. Rinse the plastic item under warm water to remove the lemon juice, and then dry it completely. The lemon juice should leave behind a fresh citrus scent, replacing the coffee odor.
Method 2: Lemon Peel Soak
If you have a plastic container with a lingering coffee smell, a lemon peel soak can work wonders. This method utilizes the natural oils present in lemon peels to neutralize odors and leave a fresh scent behind.
Start by filling the plastic container with warm water. Add a few lemon peels, ensuring that they are completely submerged. Allow the container to soak for several hours, or even overnight for stronger odors. The lemon oils will infuse the water and help eliminate the coffee smell.
After the soaking time is complete, remove the lemon peels and rinse the plastic container with warm water. Dry the container thoroughly before using it. You’ll be delighted to find that the lemon peel soak has effectively banished the coffee smell, leaving your plastic container smelling fresh and clean.
Conclusion
Removing coffee smell from plastic items doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these easy hacks using baking soda, vinegar, and lemons, you can efficiently eliminate the coffee odor and ensure your plastic items remain clean and fresh-smelling. Whether it’s travel mugs, coffee makers, or storage containers, these methods are simple yet effective. Give them a try, and you’ll be able to enjoy your plastic items without that lingering coffee smell.