Dishwasher it, if you can.

The best way to clean a lunch box with silicone compartments is to run it through the dishwasher, provided the label says it’s safe. Silicone handles heat and dishwasher detergent like a champ, so this is the closest you’ll get to zero-effort cleaning.

Hand washing works fine too, but forget the fancy sprays. Hot water, dish soap, and a few minutes of soaking will get rid of most food. Silicone doesn’t soak up stains or smells the way plastic does, but grease can hide in those little corners where the compartments meet the base. That’s where a toothbrush or a soft sponge comes in handy. Just don’t use an abrasive scrubber—it’ll scratch the surface and make the whole thing go cloudy and dull.

One thing to watch: if the silicone is fused to plastic or has a plastic rim, the dishwasher might be too hot for the plastic over time. Check the care label. If you’re unsure, hand wash it. And after cleaning, dry it fully with a towel or leave the lid off while it air dries. Silicone holds moisture and can get a weird smell if you pack it away wet.

A rinse, a soapy soak, and a dry rack. That’s the whole secret. Your lunch box will outlast your meal prep motivation.