How to Clean Canteen Water Bottles

Canteens are a convenient way to keep water with you at all times. When travelling in warm weather or over long distances, a canteen provides an easy way to access water and prevent dehydration. Keeping canteens clean is imperative, as you want to prevent the build up of bacteria and germs that can make you ill. However, they are easy to clean and maintain, with just a few minutes of effort.

Things You'll Need

• Dish soap
• Clean cloth
• Clean dry towel

Instructions

1. Empty out the contents of the canteen, and remove it from any attachments or holders it may be in.

2. Pour hot soapy water into the canteen, and swish it around. The mouth of the canteen is usually not big enough to be able to get your hands or a sponge into, so the "swish method" is the easiest way to clean it out.

3. Pour out the hot soapy water, and repeat at least once, if not more times.

4. Wipe down the outside of the canteen and around the mouth with a clean cloth or sponge.

5. Fill the canteen with clean hot water to rinse out the soap, and repeat this several times, until the water comes out clear with no bubbles.

6. Set the canteen upside down or on a clean dry towel to drip dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not store the canteen with the lid on. Keep the lid off to allow it to dry out. Mold and bacteria thrive in moist places.