Cleaning your Owala water bottle is actually easier than it might initially seem, though there are a few key steps you could be missing. If you’re just giving your water bottle a quick rinse between uses, germs and bacteria are likely secretly hiding out in the mouthpiece. A bit of patience and technique will keep this trusty companion clean for repeated use and maximum hydration. Follow these simple steps to disassemble every Owala model and thoroughly wash your bottle every time.

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Owala bottles are the strong but sensitive type. Harsh chemicals, abrasive tools, and extreme temperatures do more harm than good. Here’s what to avoid when cleaning your Owala.

• Don’t use metal brushes: to clean the inside or outside of the bottles. Doing so could compromise the appearance and create crevices where bacteria can hide. Remember to use gentle or soft-bristle brushes when cleaning your bottle.
• Stick to gentle cleaners: Don’t use scouring or bleach cleansers. Your bottle will thank you for simply soaking it in regular detergent or natural cleaning products.
• Avoid extreme heat: Owala bottles should not be placed in extreme temperatures. These bottles are made of metal; trying to warm liquids inside them in a microwave causes sparks to fly. Avoid a fire hazard by warming liquids in a kettle or another container before pouring them into the Owala. If you plan to be in a sauna or steam room, avoid bringing your bottle inside. The external heat can affect the metal surface. 
• Skip the freezer: Similarly, extreme cold can cause the liquids inside to freeze and expand, breaking or warping the original shape. Avoid putting your Owala bottle in the freezer for extended periods. Instead, add ice cubes to the drink inside the bottle or place the bottle in a temperature-controlled refrigerator. Both approaches let the drink cool at an appropriate temperature and pace, without causing permanent damage to the bottle.

Brie Goldman

How to Clean an Owala Water Bottle

Follow these steps to properly clean your water bottle every few days. Owala sells a cleaning brush specifically for their water bottles, but as long as you have these other tools on hand, you don’t need to buy one.

Supplies needed

• Gentle dish soap or detergent
• Straw cleaning brush or pipe cleaner
• Owala 2-in-1 brush or soft sponge brush with a handle
• Baking soda and white vinegar scrub (for deep cleaning)

1. Disassemble the Bottle

Taking an Owala bottle apart is the first step in the process. Whether your model is the FreeSip, Flip, or Twist, a thorough clean requires separating each component. Unscrew the lid and detach the straw.

2. Clean the Mouthpiece, Straw, and Lid

After detaching the straw, use a straw cleaning brush or a pipe cleaner to thoroughly scrub it with a mild detergent. Rinse well.

Next, take apart the mouthpiece and lid. Be cautious with the silicone gaskets or seals, which are typically small and either white or clear. These rings need to be wiped clean and put back in place to prevent spillage or leakage during use.

Clean the mouthpiece thoroughly (the straw cleaning brush also works well here) to make sure it is bacteria-free. After cleaning, dry thoroughly with a cloth or air-dry overnight. Doing so makes sure no mold or soap residue lingers behind.

3. Scrub the Inside

Cleaning the interior of a stainless-steel bottle requires the right tools. An Owala 2-in-1 brush lets you clean both the inside of the bottle and its component parts. However, if you don’t have one handy, you can use a soft sponge brush with a handle that lets you reach the bottom surface of the bottle. Wash with warm soapy water. Rinse multiple times if you’ve used juice or sports drinks inside.

If smells or flavors linger, fill the inside with warm water and leave it for an hour before washing again with a cleaning solution. Place the bottle parts on a drying rack or a clean towel with the mouth of the bottle facing down. This position allows any trapped water to flow out; repeat this process every night before bed so the bottle is fresh and dry for the next morning.

4. Deep Clean When Needed

If your usual daily detergent routine doesn’t deliver, hand-washing with a baking soda and vinegar scrub, made by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda and 2-3 tablespoons of distilled white vinegar, is the best option.

For the occasional stubborn smell or flavor, some Owala components are top-rack dishwasher safe.1 However, the lid and base shouldn’t be placed in the dishwasher, as extreme temperatures and harsh detergents can damage the bottle. The straw can go on the top rack, and the gasket and spout can be washed in the utensil rack.