Are Hydroflask Bottles Dishwasher Safe?
Hydro Flask water bottles are a popular choice for keeping drinks cold on the go. But when it comes time to clean your Hydro Flask, can you just toss it in the dishwasher like other bottles? The short answer is yes, Hydro Flask bottles are dishwasher safe, but there are some important caveats to keep in mind.
The key factor allowing Hydro Flasks to be dishwasher safe is their powder coated exterior finish. This matte powder coating offers heat resistance, allowing the bottles to withstand high dishwasher temperatures that could potentially damage the vacuum insulation otherwise. So you can safely wash your Hydro Flask bottle on the top rack of the dishwasher without worrying about compromising its thermal performance.
Understanding Dishwasher Risks
However, it's still best to avoid using harsh dishwasher cycles or settings when cleaning your Hydro Flask. The intense high pressure spray of dishwasher jets, combined with extremely hot water and strong detergents, can be rough on parts like rubber gaskets and seals over time.
To understand why it's ideal to handwash your Hydro Flask, let's take a closer look at some of the potential risks of frequent dishwasher use:
Extreme Heat
Dishwashers typically operate with water temperatures between 140-160degF to sanitize dishes. Exposing your Hydro Flask to such intense heat repeatedly can gradually weaken the vacuum insulation inside. This TempShield insulation layer is what allows the bottle to maintain temperatures so well. High heat can compromise the performance of this insulation over time.
High Pressure Jets
The powerful spray jets in your dishwasher apply intense pressure to clean dishes. This high-pressure water stream could push past seals and gaskets, allowing moisture to seep into the insulation layer. Moisture buildup impairs the bottle's ability to regulate temperature.
Harsh Detergents
Many dishwasher detergents contain harsh ingredients like chlorine bleach that help break down and remove grime. But these strong chemicals may also strip off any custom vinyl decals or stickers on your Hydro Flask over time. Prolonged exposure to corrosive detergents could also degrade the stainless steel, causing discoloration or corrosion.
Repeated Exposure
While an occasional dishwasher cycle won't ruin your Hydro Flask, repeated dishwashing will weaken parts like rubber gaskets with prolonged exposure. The combination of high heat, pressure, and harsh detergents gradually wears components down. For long-lasting performance, it's wise to handwash.
Benefits of Handwashing Your Hydro Flask
For these reasons, handwashing is generally the recommended cleaning method by Hydro Flask to best preserve your bottle's integrity. By handwashing with a soft brush and mild, eco-friendly dish soap, you can avoid subjecting your Hydro Flask to the risks of high heat, pressure, and harsh detergents.
Let's look at some of the biggest benefits of making handwashing your primary cleaning method:
Gentler Cleaning
Handwashing provides a much gentler overall cleaning process for your Hydro Flask. With the soft scrub of a brush and low water temperature, you avoid wearing down parts prematurely.
Thorough Inspection
Handwashing enables you to fully inspect the interior and exterior of your Hydro Flask, looking for any cracks, tears or unusual wear and tear. It's much easier to spot issues than quick dishwasher cleaning.
Targeted Scrubbing
A bottle brush allows you to scrub away stubborn spots, stains or smells in a targeted way. Grimy areas like the underside of the Flex Cap lid can be cleaned more effectively than in a dishwasher.
Seal & Gasket Care
You can take extra care when handwashing to avoid getting harsh detergents on rubber gaskets or submerging the Flex Cap entirely. This preserves the lid's ability to seal tightly.
No Harmful Chemicals
Handwashing avoids any contact with corrosive bleach or additives found in dishwasher detergents. A mild, eco-friendly soap protects your Hydro Flask's finish.
Air Drying
After handwashing, bottles can be air dried upside down. This eliminates any moisture buildup inside that could lead to mold or odors if left closed.
Establishing A Handwashing Routine
Handwashing your Hydro Flask doesn't need to be a chore. Here are some tips for making it a quick, hassle-free part of your regular routine:
Supplies
- Mild eco-friendly liquid dish soap
- Warm water
- Hydro Flask bottle brush
- Absorbent towel for drying
Steps
- Rinse: Rinse bottle and lid with warm water to remove excess dirt.
- Wash: Add a small amount of soap and scrub interior and exterior with brush.
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse away all soap residue with warm water.
- Dry: Use a towel to dry any exterior moisture. Air dry upside down.
It's quick and easy! Just 5-10 minutes is all you need. Make post-workout shake blending or morning coffee the reminder you need to wash your Hydro Flask.
Monthly Deep Clean
Once a month, do a deeper handwash cleaning:
- Remove the Flex Boot and handwash separately.
- Use a bottle brush to scrub the underside of the lid.
- Clean with baking soda and vinegar solution to remove odors.
- Dry thoroughly upside down to prevent mold in lid.
An Occasional Dishwasher Cycle is Okay
Now, does this mean you can never put your Hydro Flask bottle in the dishwasher? Not at all. While handwashing is ideal for routine cleaning, the reality is that tossing your Hydro Flask into the dishwasher once in awhile won't ruin it.
Hydro Flask confirms that the occasional dishwasher cycle is perfectly fine. Just be sure to follow these tips:
- Use top rack only - bottom rack is too intense.
- Opt for light or eco wash and dry cycles.
- Skip the high-heat sanitize option.
- Use a mild detergent, avoid harsh additives.
- Inspect gaskets afterward for deterioration.
Limit dishwasher use to an occasional as-needed basis. Handwash daily for best results. With proper care between cycles, the dishwasher won't cause damage. Just don't make it your daily go-to for convenience.
Should You Pre-Rinse Before Dishwashing?
Opinions vary on whether you need to pre-rinse your Hydro Flask before loading in the dishwasher. Some find it helpful:
- Pre-rinsing removes excess dirt and oils.
- Can help prevent detergent build-up.
- Makes the dishwasher filter cleaner.
However, others argue pre-rinsing defeats the purpose of a dishwasher's cleaning power. The consensus seems to be it's helpful but not strictly necessary with an occasional cycle. Do what works best for you!
Specialized Hydro Flask Cleaning Products
Hydro Flask offers its own line of cleaning products designed specifically for your bottles, mugs and food jars:
Comes with a soft bristled brush that fits standard and wide mouth bottles. Safe for use on all finishes.