Before Reusing Your Pickle Jars, Try This Trick To Get Rid Of The Odor

Reusing pickle jars is a fantastic way to live more sustainably. These containers are tough and versatile, perfect for storing leftovers or organizing small household items. You can even use the glass jars as plant holders. However, a common concern is that the jars retain a lingering pickle smell even after you give them a good scrub with soap and water. The strong odor might make you think twice about repurposing those containers, especially for fresh food. Fortunately, there's a simple trick to effectively remove the odor using baking soda and white distilled vinegar.

Compared to harsh chemical cleaners, this non-toxic method offers a safer alternative to get rid of the pickle odor. Using products like disinfectant wipes isn't ideal if you plan to use the jars for food storage to organize your pantry. These cleaning products may contain quaternary ammonium compounds, which have been linked to serious health problems if ingested. But with just a bit of baking soda and vinegar, your jars will be odor-free and ready for anything, whether it's homemade jams, dry goods, or even as cute storage containers. Let's jump into the easy, no-fuss process that will make your jars smell like new.

Start by washing your jar in hot, soapy water. This will get rid of any leftover pickle bits. Rinse well to make sure there's no soap left. Then, sprinkle a good amount of baking soda inside the jar, making sure to cover the bottom and sides. Baking soda neutralizes odors by reacting with acidic molecules to create neutral, smell-free compounds. Its alkaline nature changes the pH balance of acidic odors, getting rid of or lessening the smell. Next, pour in some white distilled vinegar. It's best to add vinegar in equal measure to baking soda. Vinegar is safe and effective in cleaning food-related tools because it absorbs odor and contains acetic acid, which is widely used for cleaning and disinfecting in food processing plants.

Once you've poured in your baking soda and vinegar, put the lid on tight and shake the jar. This step helps the baking soda and vinegar mixture reach every part of the container. Then, let it sit overnight with the lid off. When morning comes, you can empty the jar and rinse it well with hot water. Make sure all the baking soda and vinegar are gone. Dry the jar completely, either by air-drying or with a clean towel. The result is a clean, fresh-smelling jar you can reuse for multiple purposes at home.