Quck answer
Cleaning plastic water jugs is a simple process that requires only a few steps. First, empty the jug and remove the cap. Rinse the jug with warm water to remove any residue. Next, mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. Use a brush or sponge to scrub the inside of the jug with the vinegar solution. Pay extra attention to any stains or odors. Rinse the jug thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining vinegar. Finally, allow the jug to air dry before using or storing it. Regular cleaning will help keep your plastic water jug fresh and odor-free.
In the ever-expanding market of beverages, sometimes there’s nothing more refreshing than a simple glass of water. If you own reusable plastic water containers, it’s essential to know how to clean them properly. Clean and bacteria-free containers are crucial for enjoying the benefits of drinking water.
Using Rice for Cleaning
To effectively clean your water container, you can use rice and dishwashing liquid every two weeks. Start by adding 1 gallon of tap water, 1 cup of rice, and 1 squirt of dishwashing liquid into the container. With your hand covering the opening, shake the container in all directions for about 30 seconds. This allows the rice to scrub the interior. Dispose of the mixture and rinse the container. If you don’t plan to disinfect with bleach, continue rinsing until all soap residue is gone and leave the container to air dry.
Disinfecting with Bleach
Twice a year, after the rice cleaning, it’s important to disinfect the water container with bleach to eliminate bacteria. After emptying the rice and water mixture, add 1 teaspoon of unscented disinfecting bleach and another gallon of tap water to the container. Close the container tightly and shake it for 30 seconds. Let it sit for five to 15 minutes with the cap on. Pour out the bleach solution and rinse the container multiple times with tap water.
If you still smell bleach after several rinses, you can use 1 cup of baking soda. Sprinkle it inside the container, shake it thoroughly, and then add 1 gallon of water. Shake the container for 30 seconds before emptying and rinsing it thoroughly. Flip the container upside down and allow it to dry overnight.
Alternative Methods
If you don’t have bleach or prefer not to use it, there are several alternatives that can help clean and deodorize your water container. White distilled vinegar, over-the-counter hydrogen peroxide, or baking soda are all viable options.
To use vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, rinse out the rice and soap mixture first. Then, add 1 tablespoon of either vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to 1 gallon of water. Shake the solution inside the container and fill it with tap water. Close the container and let it sit for approximately 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly and allowing it to air dry. If using baking soda, follow the same procedure but use 2 tablespoons per gallon of water.
