How to Clean Your Kids' Tumbler

by Owala Team
kids' stainless steel tumblers with a blue background

How To Clean Your Kids' Tumbler

Your kids' tumblers are real lifesavers: They keep drinks spill-free and at just the right temperature. But hydration heroes can’t do everything on their own—they need regular cleaning so they can last longer and stay safe and sanitary for little ones. Bacteria, mold, and unpleasant odors can build up if tumblers aren't cleaned thoroughly and regularly, potentially affecting your child's health. The good news is that cleaning a tumbler doesn’t have to be hard. With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can easily keep your kids' tumblers in pristine condition. 

By setting up a cleaning routine, you’ll make sure your kids’ tumblers are always ready for the next adventure, keeping their drinks fresh and free from any harmful contaminants.

Hand washing

Kids often leave their tumblers in places where germs can thrive, so thorough cleaning is essential. We highly recommend hand washing your kids’ tumbler because it removes bacteria without harming the finish. That way it stays just as bright and beautiful as the day you bought it.

  1. Separate the rubber insert and straw from the lid to remove trapped debris..
  2. Using a bottle brush, scrub the interior and exterior with warm, soapy water, reaching all the nooks and crannies. Pay special attention to the lid and any crevices
  3. Lay out all parts to dry completely before reassembling. This prevents moisture buildup that can lead to mold and odors.

Dishwasher

Wishing for an easier way? We’ve got good news! While hand washing is best for the base and lid, some parts of the tumbler can safely go in the dishwasher. It’s easy as 1,2,3. 

  1. Place the rubber insert and straw on the top rack.
  2. Place the lid on the top rack. 
  3. Run the dishwasher, then ensure all parts are thoroughly dry before reassembling to prevent moisture and mold.

How To Tackle Tumbler Stains and Odors

It’s normal for kids' tumblers to get a little funky over time, especially when it’s used for juice and other drinks. These stains and odors can be challenging to remove with regular washing alone and can make the tumbler taste pretty yucky. By using natural cleaning agents like baking soda and vinegar, you can banish problem areas without harsh chemicals. Here’s how to clean a kids’ tumbler that has a bit of buildup.

Baking Soda Paste

Create a simple paste with baking soda and water:

  1. Mix baking soda and water until a thick paste forms.
  2. Apply the paste to stained areas inside the tumbler and scrub with a bottle brush.
  3. Rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.

Vinegar Soak

For tougher stains and odors, use a vinegar soak:

  1. Fill the tumbler with white vinegar and let it soak for several hours or overnight.
  2. After soaking, scrub with a bottle brush and rinse thoroughly.

Avoid These Tumbler Cleaning Mistakes

If you want your kids' tumblers last, avoid these common mistakes that can damage them and compromise their functionality. Using the wrong cleaning tools or methods can lead to scratches, corrosion, and other issues that reduce the lifespan of your tumbler.

Using Metal Brushes

Metal brushes can scratch the stainless steel surface, leading to rust. Ouch. Use soft bottle brushes instead.

Using Bleach

Bleach is way too harsh for stainless steel and can cause corrosion. Stick to natural cleaning agents like baking soda and vinegar.

Microwaving the Tumbler

Trust us when we say you should never, ever microwave a stainless steel tumbler. It can cause a pretty dangerous fireworks show and damage both the tumbler and your microwave.

Freezing the Tumbler

Tumbler Cleaning Routine

Knowing how clean a kids’ tumbler is great, but you need to keep up a consistent routine. Clean the tumblers right after use to prevent residue buildup, stains, and unpleasant odors over time. You also should make sure all pieces are thoroughly dry after cleaning to avoid bacteria. By following these simple steps, your kids' tumblers will stay fresh, clean, and safe for their daily use.

Grab Your Next Kids' Tumbler with Owala!

Struggling to find the right tumbler for your kiddos? We’ve got you covered. Owala Kids' Tumblers are tough enough to handle daily wear and tear while keeping drinks cold. They’re not just functional though—they also come in their favorite shades.. Ready to find yours and add a splash of color to their day?

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