The water bottle is one of the basic necessities in our everyday lives. It is a handy item which you can take anywhere and everywhere with you.
With our fast-moving lifestyle, we often forget to wash our water bottles properly, which leads to an unpleasant smell. We know that this is absolutely harmful to our health because bacteria can build up over time.
Cleaning them with chemicals might seem like a good option, but I suggest you try a more nature-friendly approach. That’s why in this article, I’ll show you a simple way to clean your water bottle with baking soda.
What you’ll need:
Baking soda
Water
Brush
Tablespoon
Shallow Container or bowl
Steps:
Step 1. Put baking soda into the bottle and fill it with water. Use 1 tablespoon of baking soda per half a liter of water.
Step 2. Close the lid or mouthpiece of the water bottle and shake it a few times. Leave it for 1-2 hours.
Step 3. Make a paste by mixing 1 tablespoon of water with 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Use this to brush the mouth of your water bottle.
Step 4. Rinse the inside and outside of the bottle with clean water. Make sure you rinse away all the traces of baking soda.
Step 5. Dry your water bottle. Check if your water bottle is completely dry before you store it, or else you give harmful bacteria a chance to multiply.
Why Use Baking Soda For Cleaning Water Bottles?
Baking soda is a very cost-effective and natural way to clean water bottles.
Germs hate baking soda because it has antiseptic properties. Furthermore, baking soda helps prevent any odor from your bottle, which is another thing you want in a container that holds your drinking water.
So cleaning with baking soda keeps your water bottles clean and odor-free.
How Often Should You Deep Clean Your Water Bottles?
Wash your water bottles every day after each use and deep clean them with baking soda at least once every 1-2 weeks.
Ways to Determine if Your Water Bottle is Safe (and if it’s time to Wash It)
If you’re unsure if your water bottle is safe to use, here are a few tips to guide you.
- Smell it. Sniff the opening of the bottle. If it smells strange, then it’s time to wash it.
- Taste test. Notice if there’s a change in the taste of water. If the water has a weird taste, it could mean that it’s time to deep clean your bottle or maybe buy a new one. This is especially common with plastic water bottles.
- Check the opening. If you see water stains (yuck!) building up around the mouthpiece, then it’s time to clean it.
- New water bottles. For water bottles you just bought, make sure you wash them first just to be on the safe side.
Conclusion:
That’s how to use baking soda to deep clean your water bottles. It’s cheap and very effective.
Baking soda is also a great electric kettle descaler. Check out my article on how to descale an electric kettle with baking soda if you’re interested.
Thank you for reading and until next time!
-Baking Soda Guy
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Cleaning Water Bottles with Baking Soda:
- Can I use baking powder instead of baking soda to clean my water bottle? No, baking powder is not a suitable substitute for baking soda in this cleaning method. Baking powder contains additional ingredients, such as cream of tartar and cornstarch, which may not have the same cleaning properties as pure baking soda.
- Can I clean stainless steel water bottles with baking soda? Yes, baking soda is safe to use on stainless steel water bottles. It is a gentle abrasive that can help remove stains and odors without scratching the surface.
- Is it safe to use baking soda to clean insulated water bottles? Yes, baking soda is safe to use on insulated water bottles, but it’s essential to ensure that no baking soda residue remains inside the bottle after cleaning. Residue can affect the insulating properties and may alter the taste of the liquid.
- Can I use baking soda to clean water bottles with infusers or strainers? Yes, baking soda can be used to clean water bottles with infusers or strainers. However, you may need to pay extra attention to cleaning these removable parts thoroughly to prevent any residue or buildup.
General Water Bottle Care:
- How should I store my water bottle to prevent odor and bacteria buildup? To prevent odor and bacteria buildup, always store your water bottle with the cap or lid off when not in use. This allows for proper ventilation and helps the bottle dry completely.
- Can I use the baking soda cleaning method for reusable plastic water bottles? Yes, you can use the baking soda cleaning method for reusable plastic water bottles. Baking soda is non-toxic and safe for use on most plastics. However, check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure compatibility with your specific water bottle.
Water Bottle Replacement:
- How often should I replace my water bottle? The lifespan of a water bottle depends on its material, quality, and usage. Reusable plastic bottles may need replacement every six months to a year, while stainless steel or glass bottles can last for several years. Replace your water bottle if you notice any cracks, leaks, or signs of wear and tear.
Safety Precautions:
- Can I use hot water with baking soda to clean my water bottle? It’s generally safe to use warm water with baking soda for cleaning. However, avoid using boiling water, especially with plastic water bottles, as extreme temperatures can cause warping or damage to the bottle.
Disclaimer: Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of your water bottle. If you have specific concerns about cleaning your water bottle, consult the manufacturer or seek professional advice.
Top Photo by Bluewater Sweden on Unsplash
