The Wappa Bento Box (わっぱ弁当箱) is crafted from natural cedar wood. It is lightweight, durable, and naturally antibacterial. The wood also helps to regulate moisture, keeping rice and other dishes fresh, making it perfect for daily lunches and picnics. To enjoy it for years to come, a little mindful care makes all the difference. In this post, we’ll guide you through how to use, clean, and care for your Wappa Bento Box, with helpful tips passed down through generations of bento lovers in Japan.

Before First Use

Since the bento box is made from natural wood, it is essential to thoroughly wash it before using it to store food. 

Rinse the box and lid under warm water, and use a soft sponge with mild detergent to remove any dirt. Avoid using hot water, bleach, or any harsh chemicals, as these can damage the wood. When washing the box with soap, be careful not to scrub too hard.

Once the box is clean, use a dry cloth to wipe away any moisture and allow it to air dry completely before use. It is important to keep the bento box dry, as excess moisture can affect the longevity of the wood.

How to Pack a Wappa Bento

1. Let Hot Foods Cool Slightly Before Packing
A key tip for packing rice into a wooden Wappa is to wait until the rice cools to about room temperature before closing the lid.

• First, make sure your box is completely dry.
• Then, pack warm rice inside and leave the lid open to allow excess steam to escape.

• If you close the lid too soon, trapped steam can cause moisture buildup, leading to mould or unpleasant smells.
• Once the rice has cooled to room temperature, you can add your side dishes and close the lid securely.

2. Packing Side Dishes Thoughtfully
Natural wood can absorb oil and sauces easily, which can lead to stains. To protect your box:

• Gently blot oily or simmered dishes with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture before packing.
• You can also place leaves (like shiso or lettuce) or parchment underneath dishes to prevent direct contact with the wood.

3. Arrange Side Dishes by Size and Colour
For an attractive and balanced bento:

• Start with the largest items, then fill in with medium and small side dishes.
• Aim for a mix of colours: red, green, yellow, black, and white — this not only looks beautiful but ensures nutritional variety.

After Eating

• Remove any leftover food as soon as possible.
• Wash the box gently by hand with warm water and a soft cloth.
• Avoid soaking, harsh detergents, scrubbing brushes, or dishwashers.
• Dry immediately with a soft cloth, then air dry completely in a shaded, well-ventilated place.
  

When Stains, Odours, or Mould Appear

Because whitewood Wappa Bento Boxes are made from untreated natural wood, they can sometimes absorb food smells or develop mould if not properly dried.

For lingering odours:
Use green tea! Fill the box with cooled green tea and let it soak for a while. Discard the tea, refill, and repeat a few times. The deodorising effect of tea helps remove unwanted smells naturally. Be sure to dry the box completely afterwards.

If mould appears:
Briefly soak the affected area in warm water and gently scrub with a mild cleanser. Even if the stain doesn’t entirely disappear, soaking in hot water will eliminate the mould spores, keeping your box hygienic for future use.

For daily users:
If you use your Wappa Bento Box every day, it’s recommended to own two boxes and alternate between them. This allows each box to fully dry for at least one day between uses, reducing the risk of odour or mould.

When in doubt:
If stains, odours, or mould persist, don’t hesitate to contact the workshop or artisan you purchased it from. Many can offer professional cleaning advice or repair services.

A Daily Ritual Worth Preserving

Using a Wappa Bento Box invites you to slow down, be mindful of what you eat, and connect with the beauty of natural materials. With proper care, your Wappa Box will age gracefully, developing a soft patina and becoming a treasured part of your daily life.