The Stanley Quencher had its run as the trending water cup for about two years, but now a new brand has taken over: the HydroJug.
The HydroJug Traveler, a 40-ounce capacity cup with a handle, is the most popular option, appearing as an influencer favorite on TikTok and Instagram. It comes with a flip straw and is leakproof even when held upside down.
If you’ve gotten your hands on one of these prized cups, here’s the best way to clean it so it doesn’t develop mold.
Are HydroJugs Dishwasher Safe?
The HydroJug Traveler is dishwasher-safe, so feel free to pop it on the top rack of your dishwasher anytime you need to clean it (especially after using it for any liquid besides water).
HydroJug PolyJugs are also top-rack dishwasher safe. However, you must hand wash any glass or stainless steel HydroJug tumblers.
How to Handwash Your HydroJug
To handwash your HydroJug, fill your sink with warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Immerse your cup and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Then wash with a rag or sponge, rinse, and place face down on a dish towel or rack to dry.
If you use your cup for drinks other than water and it develops a bad smell, wash it using the previous directions. Then, drizzle vanilla extract on a paper towel, place it in the cup, and let it sit overnight. You can also absorb bad odors by filling the cup with coffee grounds for 24 hours before rewashing.
How to Clean the HydroJug Lid
HydroJug doesn’t specify whether its lids are dishwasher safe. However, we’ve found that it’s best to handwash lids to ensure you reach all nooks and crannies.
If you only drink water from your cup, you don’t have to worry about mold filling the straw and crevices within the lid. Simply wash the lid with warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Lay it on a towel with the straw open to fully dry.
If you drink soda, juice, tea, or any other non-water beverages from your HydroJug, washing the lid after each use is important to prevent bacteria and mold growth. Soak the lid in hot, soapy water, and then use a straw cleaner to wash out the straw portion of the cup.
Sometimes, if you’ve gone too long between cleanings, your lid will not come clean with only soapy water. Tackle this by filling a tub or bowl with half water and half white distilled vinegar. Add a couple of drops of dish soap to the mixture. Soak your lid for twenty minutes, then scrub with a straw cleaner brush. Rinse well, and lay with the straw portion open to dry.
