14+ years of experience in manufacturing kitchen appliances, is a professional food vacuum sealer manufacturer.
A vacuum sealer is supposed to be a handy kitchen helper, preserving food and extending its freshness. However, many users are deeply troubled by the unpleasant odor coming from their sealers.
Take a housewife as an example: every time she opens the sealer, a pungent smell hits her face. She has tried wiping it with water and using chemical cleaners, but the odor remains. Worse still, the cleaners leave a harsh residual smell and may even corrode the machine’s components. Another food enthusiast, who uses the sealer to store ingredients, is equally frustrated by the odor. He has attempted placing activated carbon packs to absorb the smell and sticking aroma patches on the sealer’s exterior to mask it, but these are not long-term solutions—the odor still plagues him every time he uses the machine.
These users have all sought ways to solve the odor problem, but most efforts yield little result. They can only put up with the smell, feeling disappointed and helpless with their vacuum sealers. Yet, among these users troubled by the odor, some have accidentally discovered the amazing effect of white vinegar. a bottle of white vinegar (yes, the one in your pantry!) fixes it cheaply—without harming your machine or ruining bag compatibility.
Why does vinegar work so well? Its acetic acid cuts through the grease and protein residues that cause odors, and neutralizes those yucky heated plastic smells at the source—not just masking them. And it’s gentle: no corrosion on rubber gaskets or metal heating elements, which is key to keeping a tight seal with both textured and smooth vacuum bags.
Follow these 3 simple steps:
1. Mix solution: Combine white vinegar and water 1:1 (2:1 for strong odors) in a spray bottle. Prep a lint-free cloth and old toothbrush.
2. Target clean: Unplug and cool the sealer. Wipe the heating element (remove burnt marks gently) and gasket (scrub crevices with the toothbrush). Soak detachable drip trays 10 minutes; lightly spray and wipe the chamber (avoid power ports).
3. Dry thoroughly: Air-dry open for 1-2 hours. Wipe with damp cloth if vinegar scent lingers.
For long-term results: Wipe components immediately after sealing oily foods to prevent residue hardening. Deep clean weekly—this maintains sealing performance, reduces leakage, and ensures your vacuum bags deliver optimal freshness every time.