How to Clean a Water Bladder & Ditch That Plastic Taste
STEP 1: BUBBLES
Forget about those bubbly fantasies involving a hot tub. The kind of bubbles we're talking about are those created by a mix of warm water and dish soap! Fill up your water bladder, give it a good shake and allow the soapy solution to flow into the hose. Let it soak for about 20 minutes. If you prefer, bladder-cleaning tablets or even denture-cleaning tablets (yes, really!) can be used instead of your classic dish soap.
I suggest getting one of these bladder cleaning kits. This will allow you to get all up in there and scrub away.
Once you've shaken, soaked and scrubbed, rinse until the last soap bubble has bid farewell.
STEP 2: THE BATTLE AGAINST THAT PLASTC TASTE
If you suffer from dreaded plastic taste syndrome, I’ve got you. Sometimes a single wash with the soapy bubble bath will do the trick. If that doesn't help, it's time to bring out the big guns, citrus power. Squeeze the juice of three lemons in with some warm water. Again, let some flow into the hose, give your bladder a good shake around, and let it soak overnight.
One golden nugget of advice is to check reviews before buying a bladder in regards to the plastic taste. Some brands like my Platypus Hoser 2L will have a ‘certified taste free’ badge.
STEP 3: DRYING & STORAGE
The grand finale. Drying your water bladder is crucial unless you're keen on running a mold-breeding program. Ensure your bladder is open and leave it out to dry. You can prop it open with a chopstick, stuff it with paper towels, or use a hair dryer.
If you live in a humid climate, or you just can't deal with drying shenanigans, you have the cryotherapy option. Just stash your bladder in the freezer, and any potential mold will hibernate. This is quite a popular option among hikers and runners.
Here's to staying hydrated!
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