July 7, 2020 by Mulberry Maids
Nowadays, reusable water bottles are very common to use to help stay hydrated in the hot summer months, and to reduce environmental impacts from waste. Staying on top of cleaning your reusable water bottles can be a challenge, especially while trying to keep your Fort Collins home clean and germ free. If you are short on time, book the most dependable cleaners in Fort Collins and let us keep your home clean week after week.
Different types of bottles require different types of cleaning, so it is best to familiarize yourself with the type of bottles you are working with. For some other tips and tricks to help keep your house in good shape you can read our guide to summer house cleaning or how you can have sparkling clean glass tables.
To make cleaning your water bottles easier, read on for some tips on keeping them clean and germ free.
How can I make sure that my water bottles are clean?
In addition to your water bottle being a high touch item, it is likely that your bottle has picked up other germs and bacteria from being placed on a dirty counter or handled with soiled hands. To be extra safe, especially during these current times, you should wash your water bottle frequently, along with other common household items as recommended by the CDC.
While some water bottles are dishwasher safe, not all of them are. Additionally, the lids, hoses, or bite valves may not be dishwasher safe, and will require hand washing.
To wash your reusable water bottles gather the following:
- Liquid Dish Soap or
- Distilled White Vinegar or
- Bleach and Baking Soda
- Cotton Swab or Brush
How often should I wash my water bottles?
As annoying as it may be, experts recommend washing your water bottle daily. This is easiest if you have multiple dishwasher safe bottles.
To get started, gather your supplies for cleaning. For a bottle that has been regularly cleaned, follow the directions below:
- Simply wash your bottle in warm water and dish soap.
- Put the soapy liquid in the bottle, and shake it around. Use a brush to get the insides and the grooves in the lid.
- Rinse the bottle thoroughly to make sure all the soap is out of the bottle.
Use vinegar for less frequently cleaned bottles:
- Fill the bottle halfway up with a 1:1 mixture of water to distilled white vinegar.
- Close the bottle and shake a few times.
- Let the bottle sit overnight, then rinse thoroughly with warm water and air dry completely.
For bottles in need of a deep cleaning:
- Put a teaspoon of bleach and a teaspoon baking soda into water bottle.
- Fill the rest of the bottle with water, and use the solution with a brush to wash the lid and any crevices or corners.
- Let the bottle sit overnight, then rinse thoroughly with warm water and air dry completely.
- If the bottle is dishwasher safe, run it through a cycle before using it.
What are some other tips and tricks to help clean water bottles?
Always make sure to read any warnings or directions with the water bottles. These days there are so many types of materials used for water bottles, not all cleansers will be safe to use. Additionally, different seals may be present on the bottle, which will likely be sensitive to harsh chemicals such as bleach or vinegar.
Another trick to help with soft water containers, such as water bladders with straws and bite valves, is to take them apart as much as possible. You will want to clean the straw and mouthpiece as thoroughly as possible. Try to use a cotton swab or other thin brush to get inside the bite valve with your warm soapy water solution, rinse, and let it dry completely before reassembling it.
For the actual reservoir and straw, you can use a hot water and baking soda mixture, holding the reservoir above your head to fill the straw with the liquid. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, then repeat with hot soapy water. Rinse it all out thoroughly and dry before reassembling it. It is best to consult with the specific water bladder you own to make sure you are cleaning it safely. Some manufacturers make a specific cleaning tab to take care of your water bladder.
Now that your water bottles are clean and fresh, take them out for a hike or picnic at your favorite local Fort Collins parks and trails, and leave the home cleaning to us!
Who are the most dependable cleaners in Fort Collins?
Mulberry Maids prides ourselves on being the most trusted cleaning company in northern Colorado. We use safe green cleaning techniques to make sure that both your home and our cleaners stay healthy and safe.
Our 100% happiness guarantee will allow you to rest assured that everything will be taken care of and handled to your satisfaction.
Get online and book your cleaning today with Mulberry Maids! Sit back and relax, and don’t worry about the hard work of cleaning your home. Give us a call today – we are always here to help!