I've been noticing some of my reusable bottles, especially the plastic ones, start getting a weird smell after a while—even after washing them regularly. Anyone have good tips or products they swear by to keep this from happening?
"I've been noticing some of my reusable bottles, especially the plastic ones, start getting a weird smell after a while—even after washing them regularly."
Have you checked the lids closely? I had the same issue and realized the smell was actually coming from the rubber seal inside the cap. Even regular washing didn't help much. Now I soak them in diluted vinegar every week or so... seems to help. But honestly, I'm still a bit paranoid about it and end up replacing bottles more often than I'd like. Anyone else find a better solution?
Even regular washing didn't help much.
Yeah, the vinegar trick helps a bit, but honestly I just gave up on plastic bottles altogether. Switched to stainless steel and haven't had that funky smell since. Maybe plastic just likes to hold grudges...?
I've had similar issues with plastic bottles too, even after trying vinegar and baking soda. Stainless steel bottles definitely seem easier to keep clean. But I always wonder about the mouthpiece or straw attachments—do you find those parts tricky to maintain? I get a bit anxious about bacteria hiding in those tiny crevices, so I end up taking everything apart and scrubbing obsessively. Probably overkill, but it helps ease my mind a bit...
Also, does anyone else worry about scratches inside stainless steel bottles? I've read somewhere (can't remember where exactly) that scratches can trap germs, and now I'm paranoid every time I accidentally drop mine!