How to Clean Silicone Molds
Silicone molds are skyrocketing in popularity for their uses in the kitchen. These non-toxic molds are easy to use and can go from the freezer to the oven without issues. Over time, however, they can absorb the odors of whatever has been cooking in them, and they tend to develop a greasy film that can be tricky to remove. The good news is there are simple ways to clean silicone molds.
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Is Silicone Dishwasher Safe?
Yes, silicone is dishwasher-safe. Thanks to its chemical makeup, it can withstand high temperatures without melting, and detergent won’t damage it. Silicone will be safe in the top rack of the dishwasher.
That doesn’t mean the dishwasher is always the best way to clean it, though, especially after a few uses. The greasy film that develops might need more TLC than your dishwasher can provide.
How to Clean Silicone Molds
Time to completion: 1 hour 10 minutes
Tools and Materials:
- Dish soap
- Warm water
- Baking soda
- Soft sponge
Instructions:
The process for cleaning silicone molds is straightforward and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Baking soda will help cut grease, absorb any unwanted odors, and leave your silicone bakeware looking good as new. How to Clean Silicone Molds
- Make baking soda paste
Mix baking soda and just enough water to form a paste. Spread the paste all over the molds and scrub it in, paying extra attention to any greasy areas.
- Let sit
Let the baking soda mixture sit for an hour or until it dries, soaking up the grease and the odors.
- Wash the mold
Wash off the baking soda paste with warm water and dish soap, using a soft sponge to get off all of the baking soda and any remaining grease
- Dry the mold
Let dry on a dish rack or using a soft towel. Silicone molds absorb static electricity, so it’s best to use microfiber or any towel that won’t leave behind lint.
How to Remove Sticky Grease from Silicone Molds
Silicone molds have a habit of developing a sticky grease film after a few uses. It can be tricky to remove with just soap and water, but the good news is there is an easy, clever solution to get rid of that grease.
Put your silicone molds in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes. The heat will liquefy stubborn grease stains. Remove the mold from the oven and scrub it with dish soap and hot water.
Avoid These Common Mistakes When Cleaning Silicone
When cleaning silicone, it’s important to avoid using anything sharp or abrasive to avoid damaging the material. Sharp objects can puncture or slice the silicone, and abrasive sponges or steel wool can scratch the silicone and affect its nonstick properties.
It’s also important to avoid using harsh cleaners like bleach or ammonia because they will eat away at the silicone and also potentially leave a residue that can impact your food.
FAQs
Rubbing alcohol can damage silicone, so it’s essential not to use it too often or to soak silicone in rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol can be used to sanitize things like silicone phone cases quickly, but for silicone food molds, it’s best to use other options.
Vinegar doesn’t harm silicone unless left to sit for days on end. For a quick wash or soak, vinegar has no adverse effect on silicone materials.
Yes, silicone molds can be boiled to sanitize. They can withstand high temperatures, usually between 475 and 600 degrees Fahrenheit, so boiling will not damage the molds.
The best way to get black mold off of silicone is to use a white vinegar solution and let the silicone soak. Vinegar is an effective mold killer and won’t add toxic chemicals to something you’re using for food.
