How to Clean Plastic Ice Cube Trays

Have you ever noticed that ice cubes made in plastic trays just don’t taste as good as those made in metal trays? It’s probably because plastic ice cube trays are more difficult to clean than metal trays. The plastic can absorb odors, and that makes the ice cubes taste bad. But don’t worry – cleaning plastic ice cube trays is easy if you know the right way to do it. Here’s how to keep your plastic ice cube trays clean and free of odors.

Step 1: Wash the Trays in Hot Water

The first step in cleaning plastic ice cube trays is to wash them in hot water. This will help to remove any stuck-on food or drink particles. You can use a dish detergent if you need to, but be sure to rinse the trays thoroughly afterwards. You can also use a small brush to scrub away any stubborn particles.

Step 2: Soak the Trays in Vinegar

Once the trays have been washed, the next step is to soak them in vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant, so it will help to remove any lingering bacteria or odors. All you need to do is fill a large bowl or basin with vinegar and submerge the trays in it for about 15 minutes. This will help to break down any stuck-on particles and remove any odors.

Step 3: Rinse the Trays with Hot Water

After the trays have been soaked in vinegar, it’s time to rinse them with hot water. This will help to remove any remaining residue or odors. You can also use a scrub brush to help remove any stubborn particles. Once the trays have been rinsed, set them aside to let them air-dry.

Step 4: Sanitize the Trays with Bleach

The last step in cleaning plastic ice cube trays is to sanitize them with bleach. This will help to kill any lingering bacteria or odors. To do this, fill a large bowl or basin with a solution of 1 tablespoon of bleach for every gallon of water. Submerge the trays in the solution for about 15 minutes, then rinse them with hot water. Let the trays air-dry after rinsing.

Additional Tips

When cleaning plastic ice cube trays, it’s important to make sure that you rinse them thoroughly. Any residue or odors left behind can affect the taste of the ice cubes. Also, be sure to use hot water, as cold water won’t be as effective in removing particles or odors. Finally, it’s best to clean the trays after each use – this will help to keep them free of bacteria and odors.