Take the Seals Out Every Time

Taking the silicone seals out every single time you clean is the only way to keep a bento box from growing mold and holding onto smells.

This is a disassembly problem, not a soap problem. Mold shows up because moisture gets trapped between the silicone and the lid, under the latches, and in the little crevices where the seal sits. If you just rinse the whole box in one piece, water gets in there and sits for two days — that’s the smell.

Here’s the routine that works:

• Take the seals out of the lid. Pop the latches off if they come out too. Don’t leave any silicone parts on.
• Wash the box and the pieces in hot soapy water. A soft sponge is enough; no need for bleach or anything harsh.
• If you already have a smell or pinkish staining, soak the seals in white vinegar for 15 minutes, or scrub with a baking soda paste. Rinse well.
• Dry absolutely everything before you snap the seals back in. Air-dry the box and the silicone pieces separately, upside down. This is the step people skip, and it’s the whole game.

Dishwashers are okay for the box itself, but take the seals out first — the heat can warp them, and the dishwasher doesn’t get under the seal anyway.

Never close the latches and store it while it’s still damp. A dry seal is a clean seal.

Future You deserves better than mystery mold.