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1. Deep-Clean Every Piece
I scrub the lid, the straw, and the bottle itself and call it a day. But when it comes to smells, that’s usually not enough. “The stainless steel itself usually isn’t the problem,” says Fletcher. Most odors “come from the parts that aren’t stainless steel, especially the lid, silicone gaskets, straws, bite valves, and mouthpieces.”
If your bottle still smells after it’s been washed, Fletcher says she “immediately suspect[s] the gasket.” Those silicone rings “are a perfect place for mold to grow. Many people don’t even realize they’re removable, so they never get cleaned,” she adds.
The next time your bottle needs washing, take the whole thing apart. That includes the gasket, straw, mouthpiece, and any other removable pieces. Wash each part with hot, soapy water, and use a narrow brush to clean the inside of the straw. A quick rinse won’t cut it.
