A reusable drink bottle is an excellent way to increase your daily water intake and decrease the environmental impact disposable plastic alternatives make on our planet. But it's important to keep in mind that it needs regular cleaning to continue being beneficial for your health.
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Reusable drink bottles can carry risks for your health
You may not know it, but even if a reusable bottle allows you to reduce its ecological impact, it can also carry risks for your health. According to Leslie Reichert, a cleaning expert interviewed by the website Apartment Therapy, these useful items can accumulate harmful bacteria over time. She believes that it is crucial to clean your bottle after each use.
Reichert said:
It may only hold water, but bacteria and germs thrive in damp, dark environments, like inside a bottle.
Here is how to clean your drink bottle
Cleaning your eco tool is easy: you can either fill it with hot waterand a little dish soap or mix white vinegar with hot water, shake and rinse. If your water bottle consists of several parts, make sure to clean them all as germs can form even in zones difficult to reach.
Keep your bottle open when you don't use it
When your bottle is empty and you aren't using it, remember to rinse it and leave the lid open. Why? This allows you to air it out and prevent germs from forming on the wet wall.
Don't put your bottle in a dishwater
Finally, avoid putting it in the dishwasher. While you might think it's more practical, it's a no-no. The appliance could accelerate the deterioration of your bottle. Always wash it by hand.
This article has been translated from OhMyMag FR.
Sources used:
Apartment Therapy: 'How Bad is It If You Don’t Wash Your Reusable Water Bottle Daily?'
