Why and How to Clean Your (Probably Gross) Water Bottle

By Sierra McConnell

Have you ever left a little bit of water in your water bottle for a couple of days, only to come back to find it full of fuzz? Or maybe you noticed a couple of little black dots in your straw or around the rubber part of the lid? That’s mold!

If this has happened to you, you’re not alone. It happens to the best of us from time to time. We get busy, and these frequently used items aren’t cleaned as often as they should be, or they can be left behind in a bag or on the counter for a few days. According to one survey, 25 percent of people clean their water bottles a few times a week, while 13 percent said they only clean theirs a few times a month. Read on to discover how you can make sure your water bottle stays in tip-top (and mold-free) shape.

Health Risks of Dirty Water Bottles

Some bacteria and molds are good and helpful, like the bacteria in your belly that helps digestion or the mold in blue cheese. However, the stuff that grows in your water bottle can be harmful.

Not only can it taste terrible if you happen to take an unsuspecting swig of moldy water, but bacteria like strep, staph, and other bad microbes that cause sickness can grow there, too. Plus, if you’re letting your friends share your drinks or if you accidentally leave your bottle somewhere it can get warm (like in the car), you’re even more likely to encounter some of these germs.

Why Mold and Bacteria Love Water Bottles

• Ideal environment: The inside of a water bottle is often dark and moist, making it a perfect habitat for mold and bacteria to grow
• Material matters: While metal and glass bottles are generally better than plastic (which can develop tiny cracks that harbor bacteria), all types of bottles require regular cleaning. No material is inherently antibacterial, so consistent maintenance is key

Tips for Keeping Water Bottles Clean

To keep water bottles safe and hygienic, it’s important to adopt some simple cleaning practices:

1. Daily rinse: Make it a habit to rinse your bottle with hot water every day. If you have a little extra time, use soap and a bottle brush. Just remember to rinse it well so there’s no soap left inside.
2. Weekly deep clean: Aim to give your bottle a thorough cleaning at least once a week. Use hot, soapy water and a bottle brush to scrub all parts, including the lid and any straws. If your bottle is dishwasher safe, you can run it through the dishwasher for an easy clean.
3. Monthly disinfecting: For an extra clean, try disinfecting your bottle once a month. You can use a mix of vinegar and water or a diluted bleach solution. Just make sure to rinse it well afterward.
4. Let it dry: After cleaning, let your bottle air dry completely. Bacteria and mold need moisture to grow, so drying it out is important, especially if you are tucking it away in a cabinet.
5. Know when to replace it: If your bottle smells bad or has scratches and dents, it might be time to get a new one. These imperfections can trap bacteria and are hard to clean. However, keep in mind that the purpose of a reusable water bottle is not only to keep you hydrated, but to help keep single-use plastic out of the landfill.

Keeping your reusable water bottle clean is essential for your health and helps reduce plastic waste. By following these simple cleaning tips, you can stay hydrated without worrying about germs and mold making you sick.