Tomato / Oil on Plastic

How to Remove Tomato Sauce Stains from Plastic Containers

Tupperware turned orange? Don't throw it out. The sun is your friend.

Verification Pending

Checking community feedback...

Did this work?

Required Supplies

  • Lemon
  • Dish Soap
  • Sugar
  • Ice Cubes

The Logic Verdict

It’s lycopene. The red pigment in tomatoes is oil-soluble, meaning it bonds with the plastic (which is also oil-based).

The Fix: The “Lemon & Sun” Method

  1. Lemon Juice: Rub the inside of the container with a cut lemon or lemon juice.
  2. Solar Bleach: Set the container outside in direct sunlight for 2-4 hours. The UV rays break down the lycopene pigment.
  3. Wash: Wash normally with dish soap.

The “Sugar Shake” Method (For Greasy Residue)

  1. Add 1 tsp of sugar, 1 tsp of dish soap, and a few ice cubes.
  2. Shake vigorously for 1 minute. The sugar acts as an abrasive to scrub the pores of the plastic without scratching it.

Don't Panic When Spills Happen.

Get our printable Emergency Stain Chart for your laundry room. Know exactly how to treat wine, oil, blood, and ink instantly.

We respect your inbox. No spam, just solutions.