Vinegar and baking soda, not bleach, for that lunch box seal

The safest way to clean mold off a lunch box rubber seal is white vinegar and baking soda.

Bleach seems obvious, but it breaks down the rubber over time and can leave a residue that isn’t great next to food. Vinegar kills mold and is completely food-safe. Baking soda is just there as a mild abrasive to scrub the mold spots off without scratching.

Pull the seal out of the lid first. Rinse it, then make a thick paste of baking soda and a little water. Spread it on the moldy spots, add a splash of vinegar, and scrub gently with an old toothbrush. Rinse well, dry it completely, and put it back. The dry part matters — mold comes back fast if any moisture stays trapped.

If the seal is still dark or smells after that, don’t overthink it. Replacement seals are cheap and safer than fighting a losing battle.