As the weather gets warmer, it seems like we somehow amass reusable water bottles like it’s going out of style.  There’s potential that they just multiply overnight in the cupboard.  That being said, it’s super important, especially during the warm summer months to clean the bottles since they are constantly being used, warmed, and cooled.  This is the a perfect recipe for mold and funk growth.  Try these tips to keep those bottles clean and ready for constant use.

1. Make sure you can clean it in the dishwasher.  If it is hand wash only, there’s a reason for that notation.  Chemicals (even if non-BPA) can leach out or be trapped from the dishwasher soap.  Gross.
2. Clean it after each use.  Water bottles are used very frequently and even if you are super careful they can touch pavement, floors, etc. meaning that if not properly cleaned you could be ingesting thousands of bacteria.
3. Start scrubbing.  Make sure your water is hot and soapy, just a nonabrasive brush to get into the crevices, and rinse thoroughly.
4. Air dry overnight.  It may seem weird to suggest drying completely, this is key to avoiding bacteria and mold growth.
5. Once a week (if used heavily) fill the bottle about 20% of the way with white vinegar and then top with water and let stand overnight.  Thoroughly rinse and dry and you will be good to go!