How to… clean a water bladder

And ditch that plastic taste!

Brent 10.07.2026

Your water bladder carries the elixir of life, not the beginnings of a science experiment.

Leave it unwashed for too long and that innocent sip can come with a bouquet of stale sports drink, mystery flavours and a whiff of swamp.

While most bladders are made from antimicrobial materials, they still need regular cleaning and thorough drying to stop mould, bacteria and funky smells setting up camp.

A quick rinse after every hike and a proper clean every few trips will keep your water tasting fresh and your hiking mates from recoiling when you take a drink. Your taste buds will thank you.

This video beak down howe to clean your bladder. Watch and learn.