Much of that plastic comes from flimsyfood storage bagsthat are designed to be used once and tossed.

Of course, like anysilicone kitchenware, reusable bags require regular and proper cleaning.

Submerge the bags and allow them to soak for two or three minutes.

Reusable food storage bags with orange slices and almonds and sandwich with cilantro

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Use a non-abrasive sponge or dishcloth to wipe down the inside and outside of the bags.

Rinse well with hot water and invert over a drying rack to air-dry.

Do not turn the bags inside out to dry because that can harm the sealed edges.

Yellow sponge with bottle brush, cloth rag and bowl with dishwashing gloves

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Use a Dishwasher

Rinse out the bags with warm or cold water to remove loose food particles.

Use your regular dishwasher detergent and cycle.

Warning

Never turn the food storage bags inside out before hand-washing or placing them in the dishwasher.

Reusable storage bags hand washed with gloves and dish detergent in small bowl

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

This can damage the seals at the corners causing the bags to leak.

(NEVER mix the two chemicals.)

Pour the solution into the bag and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.

Reusable storage bags placed upside down in top rack of dishwasher

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Dispose of the bleach solution and wash the bag as recommended.

If the bags become stained or begin to feel sticky, a more thorough cleaning will be needed.

Remove smells by filling a reusable bag with equal parts warm water andvinegar.

end the bag and let the mixture sit inside for a few hours.

Some reusable silicone sandwich bags last three to five years, or 3,000 uses.

Some silicone bags come individually or assets of the sameor different sizes.

If sandwich bags are used daily, consider having two on hand for each person in your household.

Cleaning for a Healthy Home.UMN Extension.