How To Clean the Kids’ FreeSip® Water Bottle

Is your little one taking their Kids' FreeSip Water Bottle everywhere they go? We love to see it! But as parents, we know that keeping their water bottles clean is just as important as keeping them filled. Regular cleaning keeps your child's bottle fresh and free of bacteria, mold, or weird smells—so they can sip all day worry free.

The Kids' FreeSip water bottle is designed to handle all the drops, bumps, and tumbles that are bound to happen (maybe even a few times a day). But even the most durable bottles can collect grime over time. Yuck, right? That’s why a consistent cleaning routine is key to keeping their bottle in top shape.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the best ways to clean your Kids' FreeSip Water Bottle—keeping it safe, hygienic, and ready for all your little one’s adventures. 

Why Regular Cleaning Matters for Kids' Water Bottles

Because kids can be... well, kids. They toss their water bottles in backpacks, leave them on the playground, or forget them in the car. As a result, dirt, bacteria, and even mold can build up if the bottle isn't cleaned regularly. A thorough cleaning routine helps prevent germs that can cause illnesses—something that no parent wants. keeping your kids healthy and their water tasting as crisp as ever.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide for the Kids' FreeSip Water Bottle

Whether they like sipping water, juice, or flavored drinks, here’s how to make your Kids' FreeSip Water Bottle spic and span.

1. Take Apart the Bottle:
• Unscrew the lid and pull out the straw.
• Carefully pop off the rubber gasket (that little ring under the lid). Trust us, it’s a germ and mold magnet if you don’t clean frequently. 
2. Time to Scrub A Dub Dub:
• Wash the stainless steel base with hot, soapy water and a soft bottle brush. This gets it thoroughly cleaned without any scratches.
3. Don’t Forget the Other Pieces:
• Wash the lid, straw, and gasket with hot, soapy water to remove any residue.
• For an extra deep clean, place the lid and straw on the top rack of your dishwasher.
• Place the rubber gasket in the utensil basket of the dishwasher. Note: We recommend hand washing the base to protect its finish.
4. Reassemble and Enjoy:
• Once everything is washed and completely dry, reassemble your Kids' FreeSip Water Bottle.
• It’s now clean, fresh, and ready for your child’s next adventure!

Pro Tip for Busy Parents: Keep a bottle brush set handy in your kitchen for quick clean-ups after each use.

Removing Stubborn Stains and Odors

Kids love sweet drinks. While juice, sports drinks, and flavored water can leave their mark, we have some tips and tricks to kick stubborn stains and odors to the curb.

Baking Soda Paste

• What You Need: Baking soda and water.
• How to Use: Mix into a paste, scrub with a bottle brush, and rinse thoroughly. The gentle abrasiveness of baking soda helps remove stains without scratching.

Vinegar Soak

• What You Need: Distilled white vinegar.
• How to Use: Fill the bottle with a vinegar solution and let it sit for a few hours. For extra power, mix in a bit of baking soda. Rinse well so no gross vinegar taste remains and ruins the next drink. 

Cleaning Tablets

The ultimate tired parent hack. Eco-friendly cleaning tablets like EcoBrite give a deep clean without scrubbing like crazy. Just drop a tablet into warm water inside the bottle, let it fizz for the recommended time, and rinse. The easiest thing you’ll ever do. 

Avoid These Cleaning Mistakes

These are big no-nos. 

• Metal Brushes: These can scratch the surface, making it more prone to harbor bacteria.
• Harsh Chemicals: Bleach and stainless steel definitely don’t mix. Avoid using it or other strong chemicals, since they damage the bottle and leave behind harmful residues.
• Microwaving: Never put a stainless steel bottle in the microwave—it’s not popcorn, don’t try it. 
• Freezing: Remember science class? Water expands when frozen, which can crack or warp the material. Add ice cubes if you want those drinks a little chilly.

Set Up a Cleaning Routine

Daily scrubs with warm soapy water are your best move. For bonus points, go deep once a week with baking soda or vinegar. Consistency keeps their bottle fresh, odor-free, and ready for action—whether it’s soccer practice or snack time.

Find Your Perfect Kids' FreeSip Water Bottle at Owala!

Looking for a durable, leak-proof bottle that can keep up with your child? The Owala Kids' FreeSip Water Bottle is designed to make hydration fun and easy for kids. With its innovative FreeSip spout, kids can choose to sip or swig (because what kid doesn’t love options?), and the leak-proof lid fights off spills. Plus, it comes in all kinds of cool colors kiddos absolutely love!

Check out our collection today and make hydration a breeze for your little adventurer. Clean bottles mean happy kids and happy parents. Win-win.