Have you ever finished a jar of delicious pickles only to be left with a container that forever smells like vinegar and dill? It can be pretty frustrating! You want to reuse the jar, but that lingering pickle smell just won’t go away. Don’t worry, though! You’re not alone, and thankfully, there are many simple ways to get rid of that stubborn pickle smell from your jars.
This article will show you some easy and effective methods to de-odorize your jars, so you can use them for storing other foods or crafts without that pickle scent interfering. Let’s dive in!
Why Do Jars Hold Onto Pickle Smell?
Before we get to the solutions, it’s helpful to understand why pickle jars tend to hold onto those strong odors. Pickles are typically made with vinegar, salt, and spices, all of which have potent smells.
These strong scents can permeate the porous material of the jar, especially the lid, making it difficult to get rid of the smell with just regular washing.
The Science Behind the Smell
The smell of pickles is mainly due to acetic acid, which is the main component of vinegar. Acetic acid molecules are small and can easily get trapped in the tiny spaces of the jar’s material. Plus, the spices used in pickling, like dill, garlic, and mustard seed, also contribute to the lingering odor.
How to Get Rid of Pickle Smell: Tried and True Methods
Here are some of the most effective ways to banish that pickle smell from your jars:
The Baking Soda Method
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that works wonders on pickle jars. It’s great at absorbing odors and neutralizing acids. Here’s how to use it:
- Make a paste: Mix baking soda with a little water to form a thick paste.
- Apply and wait: Coat the inside of the jar and the lid with the paste. Let it sit overnight.
- Wash and rinse: Wash the jar and lid thoroughly with warm, soapy water and rinse well.
Why Baking Soda Works
Baking soda is alkaline, which means it neutralizes the acidic odor of the vinegar. It also absorbs the odor molecules, trapping them within its structure.
The Vinegar Method
It might seem strange to use vinegar to get rid of a pickle smell (since pickles are preserved in vinegar!), but white vinegar is excellent at cutting through strong odors.
- Vinegar Solution: Fill the jar with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Soak: Let the jar soak overnight with the lid off.
- Wash and rinse: Wash the jar and lid with warm, soapy water and rinse well.
Why Vinegar Works
While white vinegar has its own strong smell, it’s different from the dill-infused vinegar used in pickles. White vinegar helps to break down the odor-causing molecules and neutralize the smell.
The Sunlight Method
Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. It can help to fade the pickle smell from your jars.
- Wash and dry: Wash and dry the jar and lid thoroughly.
- Sunbathe: Place the jar and lid outside in direct sunlight for a day or two.
Why Sunlight Works
The ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight break down the odor-causing molecules, helping to eliminate the pickle smell.
The Newspaper Method
Newspaper can help absorb lingering odors. This method works best in combination with other methods, like the baking soda or vinegar method.
- Wash and dry: Wash and dry the jar.
- Crumple and insert: Crumple up some newspaper and stuff it into the jar.
- Seal and wait: Seal the jar tightly and leave it for a few days.
- Remove and air out: Remove the newspaper and let the jar air out.
Why Newspaper Works
Newspaper is porous and can absorb odors. The ink in the newspaper also contains carbon, which is known for its odor-absorbing properties.
The Coffee Grounds Method
Coffee grounds are another excellent natural odor absorber.
- Wash and dry: Wash and dry the jar.
- Add coffee grounds: Place a small bowl of used coffee grounds inside the jar.
- Seal and wait: Seal the jar tightly and leave it for a few days.
- Remove and air out: Remove the coffee grounds and let the jar air out.
Why Coffee Grounds Work
Coffee grounds are porous and have a strong aroma that can help mask and neutralize the pickle smell.
Dealing with Stubborn Pickle Smells
Sometimes, the pickle smell can be particularly stubborn, especially in the lid. Here are a few extra tips for those tough cases:
- Focus on the lid: The lid often retains the most odor. Pay special attention to cleaning and deodorizing it. You can try soaking it in a baking soda solution or white vinegar overnight.
- Repeat the process: If the smell persists, try repeating your chosen method a few times.
- Use a specialized cleaner: For really stubborn odors, consider using a commercial odor eliminator specifically designed for tough smells.
Preventing Pickle Smell in the First Place
While these methods are effective at removing pickle smells, here are a few tips to prevent the problem in the first place:
- Transfer pickles: If you plan to store pickles for a long time, transfer them to a glass container with a plastic lid. Plastic lids are less likely to absorb odors than metal ones.
- Wash promptly: Wash the jar as soon as you finish the pickles. Don’t let it sit with the pickle residue for too long.
- Store properly: Store empty jars with the lids off to allow for air circulation.
Beyond Pickle Jars: Removing Other Food Odors
These methods aren’t just for pickle jars! You can use them to remove other stubborn food odors from your containers, too. Here’s a handy table summarizing the methods and their best uses:
| Method | Best for |
|---|---|
| Baking soda | Vinegar-based odors, general food smells |
| White vinegar | Strong food odors, spice smells |
| Sunlight | Mild odors, general deodorizing |
| Newspaper | Absorbing lingering odors |
| Coffee grounds | Strong, lingering odors |
Repurposing Your Jars
Once you’ve successfully removed the pickle smell, you can repurpose your jars in many creative ways! Here are a few ideas:
- Food storage: Store dry goods like pasta, rice, beans, and spices.
- DIY crafts: Create beautiful decorations, candle holders, or vases.
- Organization: Use them to organize small items like buttons, beads, or office supplies.
Summary: Say Goodbye to Pickle Smell
Getting rid of that pesky pickle smell from your jars is easier than you might think! By using simple household ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and sunlight, you can effectively neutralize odors and repurpose your jars for a variety of uses.
Remember to focus on cleaning the lid, as it tends to hold onto smells the most. With a little effort, you can enjoy fresh, clean jars ready for their next purpose!
FAQs
How do you get the pickle smell out of plastic lids?
Plastic lids can be tricky because they are porous and tend to absorb odors. Soaking the lid in a baking soda solution or white vinegar overnight can be particularly effective. You can also try leaving the lid out in direct sunlight.
Can you put pickle jars in the dishwasher?
Yes, most glass pickle jars are dishwasher safe. However, the high heat might not be enough to eliminate strong odors. It’s a good idea to pre-wash the jars and lids using one of the methods described above before putting them in the dishwasher.
Why do my jars still smell like pickles after washing?
If your jars still smell after washing, the odor might be trapped in the lid or microscopic scratches in the glass. Try repeating one of the deodorizing methods or using a commercial odor eliminator.
Is it safe to store food in a jar that previously held pickles?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to store food in a jar that previously held pickles, as long as you have cleaned and deodorized it thoroughly.
What is the fastest way to get rid of pickle smell in a jar?
The fastest way is likely a combination of methods. Wash the jar with hot, soapy water, then try soaking it with a baking soda solution or white vinegar for a few hours. If possible, leave the jar and lid in direct sunlight to help speed up the process.