Newly purchased silicone products, such as silicone tableware, silicone toys, and silicone phone cases, sometimes emit a special odor. Although the odor of qualified silicone products mostly originates from small molecular substances left over from processing, which are non-toxic and harmless, the unpleasant smell can still affect the user experience. Today, I will share with you several quick and effective methods for removing the odor from silicone products.
(1) Physical odor removal method
1. Ventilation method: This is the most basic and simple method. Place silicone products in a well-ventilated place, such as a balcony or by a window, allowing natural wind to accelerate the evaporation of odors. Generally, after 2-3 days of ventilation, the odor will be significantly reduced. Silicone tableware, silicone phone cases, etc. can all be treated in this way.
2. Sunlight exposure method: Ultraviolet rays in sunlight not only disinfect and sterilize, but also accelerate the internal air circulation of silicone products, which helps the volatilization of odors. However, the duration of exposure to direct sunlight should be strictly controlled to avoid prolonged exposure, as this can easily cause the surface of silicone to age or discolor. For example, silicone toys can be exposed to sunlight for 1-2 hours, and they should be taken back promptly once the time is up.
3. Boiling Water Soaking Method: First, clean the silicone products with detergent to remove surface impurities and oil stains. Then, soak them in boiling water for about 2 hours, and finally remove and air dry. This method is effective for high-temperature resistant products such as silicone kitchenware and silicone cups. For example, after soaking a newly purchased silicone steamer mat in boiling water, the odor will be greatly reduced.
(2) Chemical odor removal method
1. White vinegar wiping method: After diluting white vinegar, use a clean soft cloth to dip the solution and wipe the surface of silicone products, then rinse with clean water. The acidity of white vinegar can neutralize odor molecules, achieving the purpose of removing odor. Methods like silicone keyboard protective film, silicone mouse pad, etc. can be wiped and deodorized using this method.
2. Toothpaste scrubbing method: Squeeze toothpaste onto a wet cotton cloth, then scrub the surface of silicone products in a circular motion. After it foams, continue scrubbing for about 1 minute, and finally rinse with clean water. The cleaning ingredients and abrasive particles in toothpaste can effectively remove odors and stains, and are suitable for most silicone products, such as silicone ornaments and decorations.
(3) Professional odor removal method
There are odor removers specifically designed for silicone products on the market. When using them, simply follow the product instructions, apply or spray the odor remover evenly on the surface of the silicone product, let it sit for a while, and then rinse it with clean water and let it dry. This method is effective for silicone products with strong odors, but it is important to choose odor removers produced by reputable manufacturers and that meet safety standards.