How to Clean Your Reusable Water Bottle

Published: August 2, 2024
Updated: January 23, 2025

PSA: Your reusable water bottle could probably use a wash. It goes with you from work to the gym to your bedside, and as much as you love it, the average person tends to neglect its very necessary care. So today we’re giving you a complete breakdown of all the ways you can get your bottle back to its former safe and sparkling clean glory.

The Dirty Details

When you aren’t cleaning your bottle regularly, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew. It’s constantly damp, after all. Sure, it’s gross to think about, but more importantly, it can seriously impact your health over a period of time. To keep your reusable bottle safe, consider a quick (but efficient) scrub down a new necessary part of your daily routine.

Essential Tools and Products for Effective Cleaning

Yes, you can clean a bottle by hand with a standard sponge, but if you want to take it up a notch there are a few simple tools that can completely transform your bottle hygiene routine.

• Bottle Brush: Look for a brush made specifically for bottles, as they’re built with tough bristles and ergonomically designed to get into all your bottles nooks and corners without scratching its surface.

• Eco Cleaner: When it comes to a vessel you’re drinking out of, don’t skimp on the cleaning agent. Better (and safer) for you and the planet options, like gentle dish soap, can effectively clean your bottle without leaving behind any harmful residues. For those who prefer DIY, mix equal parts white vinegar with warm and fill your bottle with the solution. Let it sit overnight and come morning, just give the bottle a rinse with warm water.

The Daily Cleaning Guide

To keep your reusable water bottle in tip-top shape, i.e. free from harmful mold and bacteria, it's really best to clean it every day:

• Start by filling up the bottle with warm, soapy water.
• With a bottle brush, give the inside a thorough scrub, paying special attention to corners, curves, and the bottom and top sections of the bottle.
• After scrubbing, rinse out all the soap with more warm water until there’s no soap left inside.
• Before using again, let your bottle air dry fully or grab a clean towel to dry it off completely. To air dry, you can place it top-down on a dry towel but a drying rack is even better.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my reusable water bottle?
To keep your reusable water bottle clean and free from mold and bacteria, it's best to wash it every day.

Can I use vinegar to clean my water bottle?
Yes, vinegar is a great choice when you're looking to clean your water bottle naturally. It's effective without any harmful chemicals. Mix equal parts of white vinegar with warm water in your water bottle and let it sit overnight, you'll find the acidity from the vinegar works wonders for breaking down stains and eliminating bacteria. After soaking overnight, just give it a good rinse, and your water bottle will be as fresh as new.

What are the best practices for cleaning bottle caps and straws?
When cleaning bottle caps, straws, and bite valves, scrub them with warm soapy water and use a small bottle brush to get rid of any gunk and germs in all the tight spots. Some of these items can also safely go in the dishwasher; just be sure to put them on the top rack for an effective yet gentle wash.