Has it happened to you that after preparing a healthy and delicious meal for your baby and serving it in silicone, there is a peculiar soapy taste? This unexpected and frustrating situation could be a common concern for those using silicone in their baby's mealtime. If you've experienced this issue, keep reading this blog where we will explore the reasons behind this curious occurrence and offer some insights into how to prevent and address the issue.
One of the most common reasons your food might taste like soap on silicone is the presence of residual soap. Silicone has a slightly porous surface, and if it's not rinsed thoroughly after washing, it can trap soap residues. Over time, these residues may transfer to your food, giving it an unpleasant soapy flavor.
Silicone has a remarkable ability to absorb odors from its surroundings. If your silicone kitchen tools or bakeware are stored near strongly scented items or exposed to strong-smelling foods, they can absorb those odors, affecting the taste of your food.
How can this be avoided?
You can wash them by hand or in the dishwasher, but in both cases, it is advisable to use sulfate-free dish soap or dishwasher detergent, preferably with no essential oils, antibacterial agents, or moisturizers. Avoid abrasive sponges or scouring pads, as they can create small incisions in the material. After washing and rinsing them, it is important to dry them completely with a clean cloth to prevent them from smelling musty or developing mold.
It is a good idea to wash silicone containers as soon as you have used them. Do not wait too long, as dirt and odor will be more difficult to eradicate.
How can I fix this? Here we give you 3 ways to remove the "soapy" taste from your baby and toddler's silicone sets:
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Lemon: Lemon is very useful when it comes to eliminating bad odors. In fact, a well-established trick is to rub your hands with it after, for example, peeling garlic or handling fish. It is also antibacterial, so it is ideal for preventing fungi.
Cut a lemon in half and rub it well all over the utensil. You can even soak it in lemon juice if the bad smell is very intense. Then rinse and wash it normally.
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Baking soda and white vinegar: Baking soda has multiple uses for cleaning and disinfection. It has disinfectant properties and is foolproof for removing grease. White vinegar is another ally in cleaning, an infallible stain remover, and excellent for eradicating bad odors.
Make a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Then scrub the entire silicone surface and let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with hot water.
- Bake it: Bake for 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes or until the soapy taste is gone. Silicone is heat-resistant up to 440 degrees Fahrenheit.
Remember, the joy of watching your baby enjoy a nourishing meal is one of the most rewarding aspects of parenthood. With the insights gained from this blog, you can confidently embrace the benefits of using silicone in your baby's mealtime routine