6 Methods to Get Smell Out of Silicone

Have you ever opened a brand-new silicone product—maybe a baking mat, a spatula, or a phone case—and been hit by that distinct smell? You know the one I’m talking about. It’s not quite chemical, not quite plastic, but it’s there, lingering. You can’t ignore it, and you certainly don’t want it near your food, face, or really anything that’s supposed to be clean and fresh. I’ve been there, wrestling with the stubborn stench that just won’t go away. But don’t worry, we’re in this together. Let’s dive into some tried-and-true methods to banish that smell for good.

First, What’s the Deal with That Smell?

Before we jump into solutions, let’s take a moment to understand why silicone sometimes smells in the first place. Silicone is a synthetic material made from silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. When it’s newly manufactured, certain byproducts and leftover chemicals can cling to the surface, causing that annoying odor. The good news? It’s not dangerous, but it is annoying. And if you’re anything like me, you want that smell gone yesterday.

Method 1: The Soapy Water Soak

Let’s start simple. Sometimes the easiest solutions are the best, right? Soapy water is a classic for a reason.

1. Fill a basin or sink with warm water.
2. Add a generous squirt of dish soap (the kind that cuts through grease is ideal).
3. Submerge the silicone item in the soapy water and let it soak for a few hours. If you’re impatient like me, you might be tempted to rush this step. Don’t. Patience is key here.
4. Scrub lightly with a sponge to work the soap into every nook and cranny.
5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a clean towel.

You might notice a difference right away, but sometimes, that pesky odor is more persistent. If that’s the case, fear not! There are more tricks up our sleeve.

Method 2: The Baking Soda Blitz

Ah, baking soda. Is there anything it can’t do? It’s like the Swiss Army knife of the cleaning world. Here’s how it can help with your silicone situation:

1. Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a bit of water. You want it thick enough to stick, but not so dry that it crumbles off.
2. Apply the paste to your silicone item, making sure to cover every inch.
3. Let it sit for a few hours. Again, patience, my friend. Good things come to those who wait.
4. Rinse the silicone thoroughly under warm water, making sure all the baking soda is washed away.
5. Dry it off, and give it a good sniff.

I’ve found that this method is especially effective for items like baking mats or storage containers where odors can get trapped more easily. If the smell isn’t completely gone, though, don’t despair. We’re not done yet.

Method 3: The Vinegar Victory Lap

Vinegar is another household staple that’s perfect for this kind of job. It’s acidic, so it cuts through residues and neutralizes odors. Plus, it’s cheap and you probably already have it in your kitchen.

1. Fill a large bowl or basin with equal parts white vinegar and water.
2. Submerge the silicone in the mixture and let it soak for at least 30 minutes. (I’ve been known to leave mine overnight, just to be safe.)
3. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry.

Yes, your silicone might smell a bit like vinegar after this, but that’s temporary. A quick rinse or another wash with soapy water will take care of it. And trust me, the vinegar smell is way better than the original mystery scent.

Method 4: The Air It Out Approach

Sometimes, the best solution is the simplest: just let it breathe. Fresh air can do wonders for stubborn smells.

1. Find a spot with good airflow (like near a window or outside in the shade).
2. Lay out the silicone item, making sure it’s fully exposed to the air.
3. Leave it there for a day or two, checking periodically.

It sounds almost too easy, but this method can work wonders, especially in combination with the others. After a good soak and scrub, letting your silicone item air out can be the final step that does the trick.

Method 5: The Boiling Water Bash

When all else fails, there’s always the boiling method. Heat can help break down the compounds causing the smell and give your silicone a fresh start.

1. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil.
2. Carefully place your silicone item in the boiling water.
3. Boil for 5-10 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the item.
4. Remove carefully (it’s going to be hot, obviously) and let it cool on a clean towel.

This method works best for sturdy items like spatulas or baking mats. Be cautious with thinner or more delicate silicone, though, as boiling might warp it.

Method 6: The Dishwasher Drive-By

Got a dishwasher? You’re in luck. The heat and steam from a dishwasher can help blast away those odors.

1. Place the silicone item on the top rack of your dishwasher.
2. Run it through a hot cycle—no need for extra soap, just the usual amount you’d use for a regular load.
3. Check it after the cycle is complete. If the smell persists, try another method from this list.

I’ve had mixed results with this one, but it’s worth a shot, especially if you’re dealing with multiple items at once.

When to Call It a Day

After you’ve tried these methods, take a moment to appreciate your hard work. If the smell is gone, congratulations! You’ve won the battle. If it’s still lingering, don’t be too hard on yourself. Silicone is notoriously stubborn when it comes to odors, and sometimes, it just takes a little extra time and effort. Or, if all else fails, you might want to consider retiring the smelly item and treating yourself to a new one (just be sure to give it a good clean first!).

Final Thoughts

Getting the smell out of silicone isn’t always a quick fix, but with a bit of persistence, it’s definitely doable. Whether you’re dealing with a funky baking mat, a smelly phone case, or anything in between, these methods will help you freshen things up. After all, life’s too short to let a bad smell get in the way of enjoying your favorite silicone products. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some baking soda, and show that smell who’s boss!