A good bottle should last for years, and a few simple habits make that much more likely. If you have ever wondered how to clean a stainless steel water bottle, or whether it can go in the dishwasher, this guide covers it. Every tip below comes from the care guidance we give our customers, so you can follow it with confidence.

Start with the right wash for a new bottle

Before you fill your bottle for the first time, hand wash it with warm, soapy water. It takes a minute, and it is the same method we recommend for everyday cleaning, so it is a good habit to start on day one.

Not sure which kind of bottle you own? The care steps differ slightly between the two main types, and the difference is simple:

• Single-wall bottles have one layer of stainless steel and no insulation.
• Double-wall bottles have two layers of stainless steel with a vacuum insulation barrier between them.

Our full care instructions and frequently asked questions explain both in detail.

Everyday cleaning for a single-wall bottle

Single-wall bottles such as Audrey and Sunny are made for water at a medium temperature, and they are easy to look after. After each use, rinse your bottle with warm water and mild soap. That is really all there is to it.

What matters more is what to keep away from a single-wall bottle:

• The dishwasher. The high temperatures and harsh detergents can damage the bottle and its finish.
• Bleach, chlorine and abrasive cleaners. They may damage the stainless steel, and bleach or chlorine can cause discolouration.
• The freezer and the microwave. Both can damage the bottle and compromise its integrity.
• Hot liquids. A single-wall bottle is not designed for them. It can become extremely hot to the touch and may cause burns.

Single-wall bottles are known for their durability, but they may dent or scratch if dropped or handled roughly, so a little care when you carry yours goes a long way.

Extra care for a double-wall bottle

Double-wall bottles, like Krema and Charlie, are the ones to choose for hot or cold drinks. The vacuum insulation barrier is what makes that possible, so the aim is to protect it.

The cleaning method is the same: rinse after each use with warm water and mild soap. The same list of things to avoid applies, with the reasons tied to the insulation:

• No dishwasher: the high temperatures and harsh detergents can damage the bottle and its vacuum-sealed insulation.
• No freezer or microwave: either can damage the bottle and compromise its insulation properties.
• No bleach, chlorine or abrasive cleaners.

Be gentle with the inner lining

The one extra rule for double-wall bottles is to avoid abrasive sponges and brushes. They can damage the inner lining of the bottle and affect its insulation properties, so reach for a soft sponge instead.

What to keep out of your bottle

The simplest way to keep a bottle in good shape is to match the drink to the bottle. Single-wall bottles are designed for water at a medium temperature and are not intended for hot or cold beverages. If you want something hot or cold to stay that way, pick a double-wall bottle.

A note on copper bottles

Our copper bottles have their own rules, set out in our care guide and FAQ:

• Fill them with clean, potable water. Avoid other liquids such as juices or carbonated drinks.
• Do not store acidic liquids, such as citrus juices, in a copper bottle.
• Avoid hot liquids.
• Keep the bottle dry. After washing, dry it completely with a soft cloth.
• To keep the shine, our care guide suggests a mixture of salt and lemon juice rubbed on gently with a soft cloth, then rinsed with warm water and dried completely.

Storing your bottle and replacing parts

When you are not using your bottle, store it in a dry place with the lid off. That is the advice in our care instructions for both single-wall and double-wall bottles, and it helps prevent mould or mildew from forming.

Where to find replacement lids and accessories

Lids take a lot of daily use, and sometimes one goes missing or wears out. You do not need to replace the whole bottle. Have a look at our replacement lids, and browse the rest of our accessories for other bits that make daily life easier.

Why good care is part of reusing

The whole point of a reusable bottle is to use it again and again instead of buying single-use bottles. A bottle you look after is a bottle you keep using, which is why care matters as much as the bottle itself. If you would like more ideas for reusing and reducing, our post on taking action now is a good next read.

Ready to give your bottle a little love? Pick up a spare lid or a handy accessory in our accessories collection, or explore the full shop to find the right bottle for your day.