Clean your child’s Lunch box

• For your son’s lunchbox, place a paper towel dampened with white household vinegar inside and leave overnight. (Alternatively, sprinkle baking soda into the bag/box, or stuff with crumpled newspaper to absorb moisture).

• In the morning, discard towel, wash the box and dry well. When it’s not in use, leave the lid open to air out.

• Remind your son to dispose off food scraps and wrappers as soon as he has finished eating, then use a napkin to wipe off the inside surface.

keep clean your child’s school bag

• Empty your child’s bag and turn it upside down over an open newspaper to get rid of lurking debris.

• Remove visible dirt from the inside and outside with a dry brush or a vacuum, using the upholstery attachment.

• Wipe all over with a sponge moistened with dish detergent; give a final wipe with a damp, sponge and air-dry.

• Do not soak or submerge it in water (which damages the protective surface coating, unless the bag is canvas, in which case, wash weekly).

• Store in a dry place to prevent mould and mildew.

• If the zipper gets stuck, run a piece of soap or candle on the zipper for smooth running.

• Make sure your children unload food, candy, gum wrappers, dirty napkins and tissues as soon as they get home. Set aside one day a week when they have to empty the pack and remove non-essential items before repacking it for school.