It’s important that you take your Hydro Flask apart before cleaning it. In order to get a good cleaning, you’ll need to wash all of the components, not just the outside of the bottle and the spout.
A sponge or rag won’t be able to reach the bottom of your bottle, so you’ll definitely want to use some type of long brush. A bottle brush from the baby section of your local department store works perfectly. Do not soak your lid. Submerging the lid for an extended period of time can trap water inside of it. [1] X Research source Pay special attention to the drinking spouts since this is where bacteria likes to collect. If you have one, use a small bottle brush or nipple brush to help clean these small spaces. [2] X Research source If you have pipe cleaners, use one to clean the inside of the straw. Simply insert the pipe cleaner into one end of the straw, and firmly move it up and down along the insides to remove any buildup. [3] X Research source
Run tap water over the top of the lid, then flip the lid over to allow the water to run through the underneath side as well. Slowly rotate the lid under the water to make sure it is completely rinsed off. Hold one opening end of the straw under the running tap water to rinse it out. Allow the water to flow through the straw for about 10 seconds, or until the water runs clear.
Note that frequent washing in the dishwasher can decrease the useful life of these lids. If it’s possible, wash these lids by hand during regular cleanings and save the dishwasher for occasional deep cleanings. [6] X Research source
Thoroughly drying your flask is the most important step, so don’t skip it![8] X Research source Try washing your Hydro Flask in the evening, that way it can dry overnight and will be ready to use the next morning.
Alternatively, fill your Hydro Flask about ⅕ of the way with vinegar and the rest of the way with water. Allow the solution to sit overnight. [9] X Research source Using distilled white vinegar to clean your Hydro Flask is the best option for effective cleaning. Using other chemicals like bleach or chlorine can damage the outside of the bottle and cause the stainless steel to rust. [10] X Research source
Firmly press the bristles along the inside walls of the flask. Be sure to get all the way down to the bottom of the bottle, and underneath the ledge at the top of the flask.
Make sure your Hydro Flask is ready to use by washing it in the evening and allowing it to dry overnight.
If the mixture is too thick, add a little more water to thin it out. If you put too much water and the mixture is too thin, add a little more baking soda to thicken it.
Repeat this step as needed. It may take a few goings over to completely remove the stain, so don’t worry if the stain doesn’t come out on the first go.
Try filling the bottle up about halfway with water, putting on the lid, and gently shaking the bottle up and down. Pour the water out and run fresh water into the bottle. The agitation will help clear out excess residue. Once there is no baking soda residue remaining on the inside of the flask, continue to run the warm water into the flask, swirl it around, then pour it out. Repeat this step 2 or 3 times, or until the water runs clear.
To help with timing, try washing your Hydro Flask in the evening to allow it to dry overnight and be ready to use the next day.
