How To Salvage A Reusable Water Bottle That's Gotten Too Smelly To Use - Tasting Table

"Without daily cleaning and regular deep cleans, your reusable water bottle can develop mold, harbor dangerous bacteria, and get smelly. Unfortunately, most people aren't cleaning their reusable water bottles as often as they should. Many people also aren't using the best cleaning methods to remove harmful bacteria from their water bottles. If your water bottle has developed a funky odor, you can salvage it by doing a deep clean using bleach or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar."

"First, take apart all components of the water bottle, including the lid, gasket, straw, and spigot or spout (if removable). Then soak them overnight in a plastic bowl filled with water and a cup of white vinegar. For stubborn stains or persistent odors, mix a tablespoon of baking soda into the water and vinegar solution. If you see any signs of mold or algae, soak all parts of the water bottle in a container of water with a tablespoon of bleach."

Reusable water bottles can develop mold, dangerous bacteria, and odors without daily cleaning and regular deep cleans. Disassemble all parts including lids, gaskets, straws, and spigots before cleaning. Soak components overnight in water with a cup of white vinegar; add a tablespoon of baking soda for stubborn stains or odors. For visible mold or algae, soak parts in water with a tablespoon of bleach, and never mix bleach with other cleaners. Rinse thoroughly, scrub with a bottle brush and dish soap, clean straws with a straw brush, and fully dry each part separately. Store bottles away from moisture, excess heat, and dust.

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