Reusable water bottles we all use them, plastic and metal. They are refilled day after day and go everywhere with us. They are convenient, cost effective and a great way of stopping the never ending trail of plastic into our already busting at the seams landfill areas. How often, though, do we clean or even think about cleaning them? More importantly, how do we clean our drink bottles effectively and efficiently?
Even though we may be doing the right thing by ensuring that our drink bottles are BPA free or using a metal bottle as an alternative, if we are not keeping it properly cleaned we are exposing ourselves and our families to all sorts of germs. With metal bottles, remember to ensure that if you are using aluminium that the liner and lid are also BPA free. Stainless steel bottles don’t need a liner.
# Dishwasher FriendlyThe easiest way would be just to toss it in the dishwasher upside down at the end of every day. If you don’t have a dishwasher, or yours just isn’t cleaning them out sufficiently, then try some of these alternatives below.
# Give It A ScrubAnother top tip to give your bottles a good clean is to use a Chux cleaning cloth on the end of a toothbrush or bottle brush. Just fill up the bottle with hot water and a little dishwashing detergent then give it a good scrub. Old toothbrushes are especially good for getting into the crevices in the lid or screw top.
# House RemediesVinegar is a natural disinfectant and is very effective with cleaning drink bottles. Wash with soap and hot water first, then refill the bottle with hot water, adding a couple of tablespoons of white or cider vinegar. This can be left to soak overnight and is great for killing most germs and bacteria. Just rinse out and either allow to dry naturally or refill to go again.
# Extra CareAfter washing and drying your bottle, freezing it can kill any remaining bacteria. You may also store your bottle this way if you have room in the freezer, then when you fill it for reuse the water will stay cold just that little bit longer.