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How to Clean a Water Bottle

a woman holding her water bottle while driving

Today, so many people carry around a water bottle to stay hydrated. They've become a necessity and accessory for many people. Just because it may only hold water, it's still important to regularly clean your water bottle. Our Experts walk you through simple steps to regularly clean your water bottle as well as offer tips if you're noticing an odor or buildup.

Daily Water Bottle Cleaning

It's not always the first thing on people's mind each night, but a quick wash daily can go a long way in keeping your water bottle fresh and odor free. Here's what can be done in under two minutes:

  • Place a few drops of dish soap in your water bottle and fill with warm water

  • Use a bottle brush to scrub the inside

  • With a cloth, clean the lid and any seals or straws thoroughly

  • Rinse well and let air dry

Expert Tip | This is where having a few different water bottles that you like in your rotation helps. You don't have to make sure you get to cleaning your water bottle every night since you'll have another one clean in the morning!

How to Deep Clean a Water Bottle

Daily water bottle cleaning will help keep the odor and mold away, but sometimes that's not even enough. Before you're tempted to throw out your water bottle, our Experts share a few tips that help remove buildup and lingering smells, especially the inside of your water bottle which is hard to reach.

  • Use Baking Soda: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of baking soda into your bottle. Fill with warm water and shake. Let this sit overnight. In the morning, wash and rinse thoroughly.

  • Use Vinegar: Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Shake your water bottle and let it sit overnight. Wash and rinse well.

  • Use Water-Bottle Specific Cleaners: With options like Bottle Bright, you can easily drop a tablet in, let it fizz, and rinse thoroughly.

Washing Lids & Straws

Washing your water bottle lids and straws are a little more challenging but it's important because this is where the bacteria and mold hide. It's best to let them soak in warm, soapy water for at least half an hour. You can use a small brush to scrub the inside of the straw. If there are rubber gaskets and seals, make sure to completely scrub those areas too

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning a Water Bottle

Keeping your water bottle clean doesn’t take much effort, but it makes a big difference in taste, freshness, and overall use. With a simple daily wash and an occasional deep clean, you can prevent odor, buildup, and unwanted residue from forming. If you have additional questions about drinkware, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with an Expert.