How to Prevent Your Silicone Tableware from Tasting Like Detergent

Silicone tableware is loved by parents for its durability, safety, and eco-friendliness, but if you’ve ever noticed a soapy aftertaste on your little one’s plates or bowls, you’re not alone! The good news? There’s an easy fix! Follow these simple steps to keep your silicone tableware fresh, clean, and free from any lingering detergent taste.

5 Easy Ways to Keep Your Silicone Tableware Taste-Free

1. Always Rinse with Cold Water First
Silicone is naturally porous, meaning it can expand slightly when exposed to heat, trapping detergent residue inside. To prevent this, always rinse with cold water before washing with warm or hot water.

2. Use Mild, Fragrance-Free Dish Soap
Many dish soaps contain strong fragrances and chemicals that cling to silicone. Opt for a gentle, unscented dish soap and use a small amount—less is more!

3. Deep Clean with Vinegar & Water
For lingering smells or tastes, mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water and let your silicone tableware soak for 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

4. Boil Silicone to Remove Soap Buildup
If your plates, bowls, or spoons still retain a soapy taste, boil them in water for 5 minutes to break down any trapped residue. This works wonders for restoring freshness!

5. Air Dry Completely
Instead of using a towel (which can sometimes transfer detergent residue), let your silicone tableware air dry naturally before storing it away.

For those who prefer using the dishwasher, the best way to prevent silicone from absorbing detergent smells or tastes is:

Dishwasher Cleaning Tips for Silicone Tableware

✅ Place Silicone on the Top Rack

  • The top rack is further from the heating element, reducing the risk of expansion that can cause silicone to absorb soap residue.

✅ Use a Mild, Fragrance-Free Dishwashing Detergent

  • Strong, scented detergents are the biggest culprits for leaving a taste behind. A gentle, unscented detergent is best.

✅ Skip the Heated Dry Cycle

  • The high heat from drying cycles can cause silicone to expand, making it more likely to retain detergent odors. Instead, select air-dry mode or remove the items and let them dry naturally.

✅ Rinse in Cold Water Before and After Washing

  • A quick cold rinse before placing in the dishwasher can help minimize expansion, and a final rinse after washing removes any lingering soap film.

✅ Occasional Vinegar Rinse or Boil

  • If silicone develops a detergent taste, a vinegar-water soak (1:1 ratio for 30 minutes) or boiling for 5 minutes will help restore freshness.

Why Snug Spoon Silicone Tableware?

We take pride in offering 100% food-grade, BPA-free silicone tableware that’s designed for safe and easy use. By following these cleaning steps, you can enjoy odor-free, taste-free mealtimes with your little one every day.

📲 Explore our New Set - Little Learners Set – Snug Spoon

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