Do you pat yourself on the back because you’re hydrated AF, thanks to your emotional support water bottle that tags along everywhere you go? We’re glad you’re not thirsty, but before you give yourself a medal in the self-care Olympics, you might wanna do a wellness check on your water bottle.
It could be doing more harm than good.
Shaun Veran is a microbiologist, COO, and co-founder of OURA, a brand that creates antimicrobial home goods and apparel. He wants everyone to know that although water bottles may only contain water, they can get dirty in a hot minute.
“While microbes can come from the water itself, most of them come from the person drinking it. Every time we take a sip, we introduce new microbes from our mouths and skin, further contributing to the bacterial cocktail,” he explains. The most common microbes transferred from our skin and mouths are Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, which Shaun says can lead to skin and respiratory infections.
“But we aren’t the only contaminating factor,” Shaun points out. “Water bottles can also gather various microbes from the environment—air, dust, and contact. These cling to the bottle’s exterior and eventually make their way inside.” He reminds everyone to “frequently” wash and sanitize our hands, otherwise “fecal bacteria like E. coli can also find their way onto and into your bottle.”
According to Shaun, variables like amount of usage, cleaning frequency, and the type of water bottle material determine how “dirty” a particular water bottle is. Another factor that may cause microbes to multiply in your water bottle? What you put inside of it. “Bacteria can grow in a lot of environments, but adding sugar to your water bottle expedites that growth.”
These truth bombs can feel like a bummer, but below, Shaun shares five tips for keeping water bottle bacteria at bay.
Think of cleaning your water bottle like brushing your teeth—a daily habit. Just as you wouldn’t skip brushing to avoid cavities, cleaning your bottle every day prevents bacteria buildup. If you’ve filled it with anything besides water, a thorough wash after each use is a must. Be sure to use hot, soapy water and a brush. Alternatively, you can use a dishwasher if your bottle is designated as dishwasher-safe.
You should be disinfecting your water bottle weekly. All you need is boiling water—anything above 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Take that hot water, pour it directly into your bottle to the top, and let it sit for three to five minutes before dumping it out. That will kill everything inside the bottle.
Open the bottle and air dry completely, since bacteria love moisture.
4. Straw Brushes and Bottle Brushes
Get into those nooks and crannies (especially for bottles with straws or complex lids) inside the rubber lip, along the cap, and inside the straw or nozzle. These areas are often full of bacterial buildup.
Opt for durable materials like stainless steel or glass, which are easier to clean. They create an environment that is less inviting for bacteria to settle on and multiply.
Shop emotional support water bottles below:
Stainless Steel Wide Mouth Water Bottle
Price: $39
Hydro Flask
Quencher H2.0 FlowState
Price: $44
Stanley
Frosted Glass
Price: $21
Water Drop
Rambler 26 oz
Price: $40
Yeti
The content provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice and consultation, including professional medical advice and consultation; it is provided with the understanding that Poosh, LLC (“Poosh”) is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services. The opinions and content included in the article are the views of the author only, and Poosh does not endorse or recommend any such content or information, or any product or service mentioned in the article. You understand and agree that Poosh shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in the article.
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