If you're into hiking or biking, the best option for staying hydrated is a hydration bladder. It's super convenient because you can drink from it on the go, without having to stop and take it out of your pack. However, it's important to keep in mind that hydration bladders require proper care and maintenance, as they can be a bit more complicated to refill and clean than traditional water bottles.
Cleaning your hydration bladder can be a daunting task, but it's easy once you know how. In this article, we will take you through the steps of how to clean your hydration bladder.
Step 1: Empty and Disassemble Your Hydration Bladder
Before you start cleaning your hydration bladder, you need to empty it of any remaining liquid. Once it's empty, disassemble the bladder by removing the hose, mouthpiece, and any other detachable parts.
Step 2: Rinse and scrub
Next, rinse and scrub the hydration bladder with warm water to remove any loose dirt or debris. Make sure you get all the parts of the bladder, including the tube, valve, and mouthpiece. You can use a bottle brush or a soft sponge to clean the interior of the bladder.
Step 3: Use a cleaning solution
To clean your hydration bladder thoroughly, you can use specialised cleaning tablets. These tablets are designed to dissolve in water and effectively clean the interior of your hydration bladder. Follow the instructions on the packaging for the number of tablets to use and the amount of water to mix. After adding the cleaning tablets to the water, fill the hydration bladder with the solution and let it soak for the recommended amount of time. This will allow the cleaning solution to penetrate the hard-to-reach areas of the bladder. If you don't have specific cleaning tablets, you can use mild dish soap, but make sure you rinse extra thoroughly.
Step 4: Rinse Again
Once the recommended soaking time is over, drain the cleaning solution from the hydration bladder, and rinse it thoroughly with warm water. Make sure you rinse all the parts of the bladder to remove any traces of the cleaning solution.
Step 5: Dry the Hydration Bladder
Finally, dry the hydration bladder thoroughly. You can air dry it by hanging it upside down, or using a utensil (such as a whisk) to hold it open. Make sure the bladder is completely dry before storing it. Storing your bladder in the freezer is the best way to avoid mould.
See, that wasn't so hard, was it? By cleaning your hydration bladder regularly, you'll keep it in great shape and ready for your next adventure. Cheers to clean and fresh hydration every time!