Table of Contents
Teaspoons (sometimes known as flatspoons) are an indispensable type of cutlery used daily in our lives, from stirring our morning coffee to measuring ingredients for cooking. Over time, however, they can develop stains and residues from regular use.
In this article, we will discuss how to deep clean teaspoons, ensuring they remain spotless and safe for use. We’ll cover three great methods of cleaning, and address some frequently asked questions.
Deep Cleaning Teaspoons with Baking Soda and Vinegar
This method uses natural ingredients to clean your teaspoons thoroughly. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to achieve the best results:
- Fill a bowl with 1 cup of warm water.
- Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to the bowl. Stir the mixture until the baking soda is dissolved.
- Place the teaspoons in the bowl, making sure they are fully submerged in the mixture.
- Let the teaspoons soak for at least 30 minutes. For heavily stained teaspoons, you may need to soak them for up to an hour.
- Remove the teaspoons from the bowl and gently scrub them with a soft-bristle brush or a sponge to remove any remaining residue.
- Rinse the teaspoons thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining mixture.
- Dry the teaspoons with a clean, soft cloth or let them air dry on a dish rack.
Deep Cleaning Teaspoons with Lemon and Salt
This method uses the natural cleaning power of lemon and salt to effectively remove stains and residue from your teaspoons. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve the best results:
- Cut a lemon in half and extract the juice. Set the lemon halves aside.
- Mix the lemon juice with 1 tablespoon of table salt in a small bowl. Stir until the salt is partially dissolved.
- Dip a soft cloth, sponge, or soft-bristle brush into the lemon-salt mixture.
- Gently scrub the teaspoons with the dampened cloth, sponge, or brush, focusing on any stained areas.
- For stubborn stains, rub the cut side of a lemon half directly on the stain, then sprinkle a pinch of salt over the area and scrub gently with the cloth, sponge, or brush.
- Rinse the teaspoons thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining lemon-salt mixture.
- Dry the teaspoons with a clean, soft cloth or let them air dry on a dish rack.
This method not only cleans and removes stains from your teaspoons but also leaves them with a fresh citrus scent. Remember to rinse and dry your teaspoons properly after each use to prevent future staining.
Deep Cleaning Teaspoons with Oxygen Bleach
Oxygen bleach, also known as sodium percarbonate, is a safe and effective alternative to chlorine bleach for cleaning your teaspoons. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to achieve the best results:
- Fill a bowl or container with 1 quart (4 cups) of hot water.
- Add 1 tablespoon of oxygen bleach powder to the water. Stir the mixture until the powder is dissolved.
- Place the teaspoons in the bowl, making sure they are fully submerged in the mixture.
- Let the teaspoons soak for at least 30 minutes. For heavily stained teaspoons, you may need to soak them for up to an hour.
- Remove the teaspoons from the bowl and gently scrub them with a soft-bristle brush or a sponge to remove any remaining residue.
- Rinse the teaspoons thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining mixture.
- Dry the teaspoons with a clean, soft cloth or let them air dry on a dish rack.
Oxygen bleach is an eco-friendly cleaning agent that effectively removes stains and residue without damaging the finish of your teaspoons. Make sure to rinse and dry your teaspoons properly after each use to prevent future staining.
The oxygen bleach method is our favorite. A tip is to use the kitchen sink to soak the spoons, as that can also build some stain around the plug hole. Using hot or boiling water the job is done in 10-15 mins.
Does It Wash Team
FAQ’s
Why do teaspoons stain?
Teaspoons can stain for several reasons, including exposure to acidic or tannin-rich foods and beverages, such as coffee and tea. Over time, these substances can cause discoloration and stains on the surface of the teaspoon. Additionally, improper cleaning or prolonged exposure to water can cause mineral buildup and tarnishing.
Is it safe to use bleach or other chemicals to clean teaspoons?
Using bleach or other harsh chemicals to clean teaspoons is generally not recommended, as it can damage the finish and potentially leave harmful residues on the utensil. Instead, opt for natural cleaning methods like the baking soda and vinegar, or oxygen bleach solution mentioned above.
How to remove stubborn stains from teaspoons?
For stubborn stains, you can create a thicker paste using baking soda and a small amount of water. Apply the paste directly to the stained areas of the teaspoon and gently scrub with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse thoroughly afterward and dry with a clean cloth.
How can I prevent teaspoons from becoming stained in the first place?
To prevent staining, rinse your teaspoons immediately after use, especially when they come into contact with acidic or tannin-rich substances. Regularly deep clean your teaspoons to maintain their appearance and prevent buildup. Store your teaspoons in a dry location to avoid moisture-related tarnishing.
How long should you soak teaspoons to remove stains?
The soaking time for teaspoons depends on the severity of the stains. For regular cleaning, 30 minutes should be sufficient. For heavily stained teaspoons, you may need to soak them for up to an hour or use the baking soda paste method for stubborn stains.
Summary
In summary, deep cleaning your teaspoons is crucial to maintain their appearance and ensure they are safe for use. By following the baking soda and vinegar method, you can effectively remove stains and residue without using harsh chemicals.
Be sure to rinse and dry your teaspoons properly after each use and store them in a dry location to prevent future staining. With proper care and maintenance, your teaspoons will remain spotless and functional for years to come.
