Some Facts You Need to Know About Reusable Water Bottles

When you ask people to think of an eco-friendly item that they own, most people will have reusable water bottles as a top-of-mind answer. It is a handy item they can take wherever they go or a helpful piece they can have while at home if you own one, congratulations on taking baby steps towards saving the planet! If you want to learn more, here are some facts you need to know about your reusable BPA-free drinking bottle.

How Often Should You Wash Your Reusable Water Bottle?

The short answer is either daily or after every use. It's essential to wash it often to keep harmful bacteria at bay. When your bottle is not in use, it's best to keep it in a cool, dry place. 

Consider sanitising your water bottle once a week. It’s best to do it more often if you are sick or often bring your water bottle outdoors. 

How Dirty Can Water Bottles Become?

If you are not careful, your water bottle can get quite unsanitary. Bacteria from your hands, from touching the outside of the bottle, or from food residue can grow in a matter of hours. 

In fact, according toa study conducted in the US, the average reusable water bottle has 300,000 colony-forming units every square centimetre (CFU/sq cm). They also said that some of those are harmful bacteria, includingE. coli. It was even said to have more bacteria than a pet's feeding bowl.

If you see any food particles stuck on your bottle, rinse it with hot water as soon as you can. If it has been a while since you used the bottle, open the lid and add dish soap. Then, wash it in the dishwasher or the sink.

What Type of Water Bottle Is Easier to Clean and Maintain?

The most eco-friendly water bottles are stainless steel or glass wrapped in natural silicone. Martha Stewart claims they are also the cleanest since plastic bottles may look smooth, but they harbour bacteria more easily than stainless steel water bottles or glass. 

The worst types of water bottles are plastics, including any kind of plastic that has been recycled. Recycled plastic water bottles can leach chemicals, especially if it's been heated up in the microwave for food.

How to Clean Your Reusable Water Bottle

Cleaning a reusable water bottle is as simple as placing it in the dishwasher or washing it with soap and water. We recommend using a long-handled cleaning brush for stainless steel water bottles to clean all hard-to-reach places. 

Cleaning your bottle is not enough, however. You need to maintain it properly to ensure your health and your family's health. 

Here are the things to remember:

• Don't let it sit around with food particles. Even one particle can breed bacteria if you don't wash it right away.
  
  
• Consider using a disinfectant such as vinegar or baking soda to wipe off the outside. It will kill any bacteria that may have grown on its surface.

• Rinse your bottle regularly. Use hot water so you can kill off any bacteria.

• Check your bottle for cracks. Minor damage may be a prelude to more significant problems. Replace your bottle if there is a crack.

• If you are sick, do not use your bottle. If you have to, wash your hands thoroughly before you touch them.
  
  
• Clean your bottle after use. If you can't do it right away, keep it clean by rinsing it with hot water.

Conclusion

When you decide to purchase a reusable water bottle, you are saving the planet because you are cutting down on the number of single-use plastic drinking bottles. Unfortunately, these bottles can be a source of bacteria. You can clean them, but you also need to make sure you follow the steps above to reduce the risk of getting sick.

If you're looking forAustralian-owned stainless steel water bottles, Ecococoon is the leading Australian brand for 18/8 stainless steel drinkware and other essentials. Our water bottles are vacuum insulated to keep your drinks icy cold for 24 hours and your winter drinks warm for 12 hours. Get yours today!