Reusable plastic bottles are a convenient way to carry water with you on the go, and not having to worry about throwing the bottle away when it’s empty. You can just refill the bottle from any clean drinking water source and you are good to go. However, reusable plastic water bottles have a major problem – they tend to get dirty, stained and give off foul odours over time.
Thus, it is important that you know how to clean your plastic water bottle. This is why in this blog we have laid out 10 tips that will help you clean your plastic water bottle so that it re- mains as good as new for a long time.
So, let’s read on to find out more.
Why Proper Cleaning of Plastic Bottles is Essential?
It is important that you know how to properly clean your reusable plastic water bottles, as they tend to accumulate bacteria, mold, dirt and other foreign particles over time. Also, if you use your plastic water bottles for a long time, they tend to give off a foul smell.
Moreover, incorrect cleaning techniques can damage your bottle, and also cause health issues.
For example, if you use a harsh cleaning liquid inside the bottle, then the inner surface of the bottle may get eroded. This can lead plastic molecules to seep inside the water you drink, and ul- timately get inside your body, causing adverse health effects. Moreover, if you don’t wash the bottle properly after cleaning it, then the residual dirt or even the cleaning liquid can mix with the water and get inside your system.
Thus, it is important that you follow proper cleaning techniques as mentioned later in this blog.
5 Benefits of Properly Cleaned Plastic Water Bottles
Below are some of the benefits of properly cleaned water bottles.
Maintains hygiene
Maintains hygieneCleaning your water bottle properly helps get rid of germs and bacteria that can make you sick. It keeps your bottle safe to drink from.
Tastes Fresh
Tastes FreshWhen your bottle is clean, your water tastes better. You won’t get any bad flavours from leftover drinks or bacterial growth.
Longer lasting
Longer lastingCleaning your bottle regularly keeps it in good shape. It won’t get smelly or stained, so you can use it for a long time.
Cleans residue
Cleans residueProperly cleaning your water bottle helps to get rid of any residue that may have accumulated at the bottom.
Moving on, let’s look at 10 ways to clean your water bottle.
Top 10 Tips On How To Clean Plastic Water Bottles The Right Way
Use Hot Water With Soap
Use Hot Water With SoapFill your bottle with hot water and a drop or two of dish soap. Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen any grime.
Scrub with a Bottle Brush
Scrub with a Bottle BrushBuy a bottle brush with soft bristles to reach all corners of your bottle. Try to scrub the inside thoroughly, especially the area around the mouthpiece.
Pay Attention to the Lid
Pay Attention to the LidDon’t forget to clean the lid and any attached parts. The lid is the part of the bottle which is most susceptible to get dirty. Try to use a small brush or a cloth to get into crevices.
Rinse Well
Rinse WellAfter scrubbing, rinse the bottle and lid thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Use Vinegar
Use VinegarIf you are dealing with stubborn odours or stains, try soaking your bottle in a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water for a few hours before washing.
Baking Soda Scrub
Baking Soda ScrubAnother option for tough stains is to make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the inside of the bottle, scrub, and then rinse well.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Avoid Harsh ChemicalsTry to stay away from harsh chemicals or bleach. They can leave behind harmful residues and affect the taste of your water.
Air Dry
Air DryAfter washing, leave your bottle and lid to air dry completely with the lid off. This helps prevent mold and mildew growth.
Clean Regularly
Clean RegularlyAim to clean your water bottle after each use, especially if you’ve had anything other than water in it.
Inspect for Damage
Inspect for DamageTry to regularly check your bottle for any signs of damage, such as cracks or scratches, which can harbour bacteria. Replace the caps if necessary, as they are most prone to getting cracked.
Safety Considerations While Cleaning Plastic Water Bottles
There are also certain safety considerations that you need to keep in mind when cleaning your water bottles. For starters, avoid using harsh detergents for cleaning. This may erode the inner surface of the water bottle and can cause chemicals to leach into the water. Moreover, using harsh detergents can also lead to residues in the water bottle which can be hard to remove.
You also need to make sure to avoid using boiling water. Extreme temperatures can potentially damage the plastic or cause it to release harmful chemicals. In addition to this, if you’ve used your water bottle for beverages other than water, be sure to clean it thoroughly to avoid cross-contamination.
Final Thoughts
Now, cleaning your plastic water bottles is a breeze. All you need to do is follow the tips mentioned above. And voila! Your plastic water bottles will be squeaky clean in no time at all.
However, even reusable plastic water bottles have a shelf life. Thus, you must avoid using the same bottle for a long time.
Shop for BPA-free plastic water bottles in a variety of colours and designs. Head over to Varmora Plastech now and quench your thirst in style.
