A cheap toothbrush is the best bento-box cleaner

The easiest way to clean the corners and silicone seals of a bento box is a soft-bristle brush — a plain old toothbrush works better than any sponge or cloth you own.

Sponges can’t reach into tight corners, and silicone seals are magnets for oils and smells. Toothbrush bristles dig right into the grooves and actually lift the gunk out instead of pushing it around. No need to buy a special bento-cleaning tool. Just grab a spare toothbrush and keep it under the sink.

One trick: soak the box in warm soapy water for five minutes first. It softens everything up, so the brushing part takes about thirty seconds. If the silicone seal is removable, pop it out and give it a quick scrub on both sides — that’s where the mystery smell usually lives. If it’s not removable, hold the lid slightly open and run the brush along the seal while it’s soapy.

Use dish soap, nothing fancy. For stubborn stains or lingering smells, a little baking soda paste works, but you won’t need it often if you rinse and air-dry with the lid off after washing.

Future lunches will smell a lot better.