How often should I clean a reusable water bottle?

Wash it regularly, ideally after each day of use and especially after drinks other than water. Follow the manufacturer's care instructions for your specific bottle.

Can I put my reusable water bottle in the dishwasher?

Only if the manufacturer says the bottle and its individual parts are dishwasher-safe. Some insulated bottles, coatings, seals, filters and lids require hand washing.

How do I get rid of a smell in my water bottle?

First disassemble and wash the bottle, lid, seals, threads and drinking parts thoroughly, then rinse and let everything dry completely. Persistent odors may be trapped in a seal or other small component that needs separate cleaning or replacement according to the manufacturer.

What if I see mold or stubborn residue?

Stop using the bottle until it has been fully cleaned. Follow the manufacturer's deep-cleaning instructions and inspect removable seals and hidden grooves. Replace any component that cannot be safely cleaned or that remains damaged or contaminated.

Guides/Home/How to Clean a Reusable Water Bottle Properly

How to Clean a Reusable Water Bottle Properly

Clean a reusable water bottle thoroughly, including the lid, threads, seals and drinking parts. Regular washing and complete air-drying help prevent odors, residue and buildup.

Updated Oct 6, 2026

15 min6 stepsBeginnernew

What you need

Tick off what you already have.

Tools

Bottle brush
Small cleaning brush or clean toothbrush

Materials

Warm water
Mild dish soap

Reusable water bottle and removable lid parts being checked before cleaning

AI illustration

Step 01 / 06

Check the care instructions

Check the bottle manufacturer's cleaning instructions before you begin, especially for insulated bottles, painted finishes, filters, straws and dishwasher-safe claims. Empty the bottle and remove any electronic, filter or other component that should not get wet.

Guide progress1 / 6

1. Check the care instructions
Instructional illustration generated with AI for Howmigo.
Check the bottle manufacturer's cleaning instructions before you begin, especially for insulated bottles, painted finishes, filters, straws and dishwasher-safe claims. Empty the bottle and remove any electronic, filter or other component that should not get wet.
2. Take the bottle apart
Instructional illustration generated with AI for Howmigo.
Remove the lid, straw, mouthpiece and any removable silicone seals or gaskets that the manufacturer says can be removed. Note how small parts fit so they can be reassembled correctly. Do not pry out a seal that is not designed to be removed.
3. Wash the bottle interior
Instructional illustration generated with AI for Howmigo.
Add warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap. Scrub the inside, bottom and shoulder of the bottle with a clean bottle brush, paying attention to any visible film or residue. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can damage the interior finish.
4. Clean the lid and small parts
Instructional illustration generated with AI for Howmigo.
Wash the lid, threads, drinking opening, straw and removable seals with warm soapy water. Use a small clean brush to reach grooves, valves and tight corners where residue collects. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for parts with complex valves or filters.
5. Rinse every part thoroughly
Instructional illustration generated with AI for Howmigo.
Rinse the bottle and every cleaned component with clean running water until no soap or loosened residue remains. Check narrow channels, threads and the underside of seals carefully, because soap can remain trapped there.
6. Air-dry completely before reassembling
Instructional illustration generated with AI for Howmigo.
Place the bottle and all parts separately on a clean drying rack or towel with openings exposed to air. Let everything dry completely before reassembling and storing the bottle. Store it with the lid loose or off when practical so trapped moisture can escape.