Many people today are using reusable water bottle to carry their water bottles to work and the gym. Products like SodaSense are also becoming increasingly popular. Point being, we are seeing more and more reusable bottles that need to be cleaned. We are also seeing bottles that are literally melting in dishwashers, so we want to address what you can and cannot clean in your dishwasher safely.
Types of Water Bottles
Stainless Steel – This is a mixed bag. If the water bottle has any insulation, powder coating, or paint for the design, you will want to hand-wash the bottle. Putting it through a cycle is likely to damage the aesthetics or insulation. You will also want to avoid putting bottles that have seals on them, as they can also be damaged. Stainless steel water bottles that are safe for dishwashers are usually labeled as such, and you can always check with the store before making the purchase.
Aluminum – these bottles are generally not dishwasher safe. In most cases, these bottles have a protective coating that will break down in the dishwasher. When that happens, the aluminum gets exposed and is likely to interact with the cleaning liquids and break down.
Plastic – for the most part, avoid putting plastic bottles, into the dishwasher. However, some plastic water bottles will be top-rack safe, like most shaker bottles. SodaSense bottles should NOT be put in, as they will be ruined with the heat cycle in most dishwashers. I have personally seen these bottles come out completely disfigured. I bring these up specifically because of the item’s popularity and the bottles’ cost.
Glass – in the majority of cases, glass water bottles are going to be dishwasher safe. The exceptions are going to bottles with graphics that could be damaged during the cycle.
Dishwasher Safe Bottle Markings
Usually, bottles will be marked on the bottom if they can be put into a dishwasher. They will be one of the following:
- A square with a cup and fork icon inside
- A square with a wine glass and water droplets inside
- A plate or several dishes with water droplets or dotted lines above
If you do not see these markings, check your packing or manufacturing website if you think it may be dishwasher safe but is not marked.
Extra Tips
To ensure your water bottle is clean, be sure to wash it after every use. You can do a quick wash by hand by adding a few drops of dishwashing liquid to the bottle, then fill about halfway with warm water, put the cap on, then shake it a few times to ensure the entire inside is being cleaned. Rinse thoroughly before filling.
We would also recommend cleaning the cap on a regular basis, as the inside can get quite gnarly if not cleaned. I like to put white vinegar or a few drops of bleach in a large bowl with hot water and dishwashing liquid and allow them to soak overnight. I will give them a good scrub, then rinse them thoroughly before putting them back on the bottle.
