How to Clean and Care for Silicone Kitchen Utensils
By Fred - Fun & Whimsical Products - Official Site | Published: 2026-10-15
Category: Tips & Care
Keep silicone spatulas and tools fresh with a simple wash routine, a deep-clean for stains and smells, and smart storage habits that prevent greasy buildup.
Quick answer
Wash silicone utensils in hot, soapy water after every use, then air-dry them completely before storing. For stubborn stains or smells, boil them in water with a splash of white vinegar for 10 minutes, or bake them at 250°F (120°C) for 20 minutes. Most silicone tools are dishwasher safe on the top rack, but check the manufacturer's guidance first.
Why silicone holds onto grease and odors
Silicone is a non-porous material, but its surface can attract and hold onto oils, which is why cleaning greasy silicone utensils sometimes takes a little more than a quick rinse. Over time, cooking oils, tomato sauce, turmeric, and strong spices can leave a film or a faint smell. The good news: silicone is heat-resistant, so you can use heat to loosen stubborn residue without damaging the tool. The key is to act before the residue bakes on in storage or during a hot wash cycle.
Step-by-step silicone utensil care
- Rinse immediately after use: Scrape off food bits and rinse under hot water as soon as you finish cooking. This stops oils and acids from settling into the surface. Common mistake: letting tools sit in the sink overnight, which gives grease time to bond. Checkpoint: if the surface still feels slick after rinsing, move on to a full wash.
- Wash with hot soapy water: Use a soft sponge or dish brush and a mild dish soap. Pay attention to crevices, handles, and any textured areas. Avoid steel wool or abrasive cleansers, which can scratch silicone and make it more likely to hold onto stains later. Checkpoint: run your finger over the surface; it should feel squeaky, not slippery.
- Deep-clean for stains and smells: For discoloration or lingering odors, submerge the utensil in a pot of boiling water with 1/2 cup white vinegar for 10 minutes. Alternatively, bake clean, dry silicone tools at 250°F (120°C) for 20 minutes on a lined baking sheet. This is silicone utensil smell removal at its simplest. Checkpoint: let the tool cool completely before handling, and repeat only if the odor persists.
- Dry completely before storing: Silicone can trap water in small grooves or between layers. Towel-dry, then let it air-dry fully on a rack. Storing while damp can encourage mildew or a musty smell. Common mistake: tossing tools into a closed drawer while still wet. Checkpoint: if you see water droplets inside a handle seam, give it more drying time.
- Use the dishwasher wisely: Most silicone utensils are dishwasher safe on the top rack, but high heat and harsh detergents can shorten their life. Place them so they don't flip over and fill with water. If your tool has a wooden handle or a painted detail, hand-wash instead. Checkpoint: after a dishwasher cycle, inspect for any warping or lingering film; if you see either, switch to hand-washing.
Fred products that fit this routine
- CHOMP: CHOMP oven mitts are made from heat-resistant silicone and come as a set of 2. Because they are silicone, they follow the same care rules as your spatulas: wash in hot soapy water, avoid abrasive scrubbers, and let them dry fully before storing.
- TABLE SAW: TABLE SAW is a big, toothy silicone tool designed for slicing lettuce and cutting cake. Its wide, flat shape can trap food particles along the teeth, so a soft brush or a quick soak is the easiest way to clean it without scratching the surface.
