Cleaning a water backpack, also known as a hydration reservoir, is crucial for preventing mold and bacteria buildup and ensuring safe hydration. Here's a comprehensive guide:
Cleaning Solutions
You can use several solutions to effectively clean your water backpack:
- Baking Soda: An excellent all-around cleaner and deodorizer. Platypus recommends a solution of ¼ cup of baking soda in ¾ cups of water per liter of reservoir volume.
- Household Bleach: Kills bacteria and viruses. Use a diluted solution of 2 to 5 drops of unscented household bleach per liter of water. This is a strong disinfectant, so rinse thoroughly afterward.
- Commercial Hydration Reservoir Cleaners: Many brands offer specialized cleaning tablets or solutions specifically designed for hydration reservoirs. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Cleaning Steps
Follow these steps to thoroughly clean your water backpack:
- Empty and Rinse: Completely empty any remaining water from the reservoir and drinking tube. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Prepare Cleaning Solution: Choose your preferred cleaning solution (baking soda, bleach, or a commercial cleaner) and prepare it according to the instructions above.
- Fill the Reservoir: Pour the cleaning solution into the reservoir. Make sure to fill it completely so the solution reaches all areas.
- Clean the Tube: Attach the drinking tube and bite valve. Squeeze the bite valve to allow some of the cleaning solution to flow through the tube. Let it sit for a few minutes.
- Soak: Let the cleaning solution sit in the reservoir for approximately 30 minutes (or as directed by the specific cleaner's instructions) to disinfect and remove any buildup. For especially dirty reservoirs, you can soak overnight.
- Scrub (If Needed): If you notice stubborn residue, you can use a soft brush (like a bottle brush) to gently scrub the inside of the reservoir. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that could damage the plastic.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Empty the cleaning solution and rinse the reservoir and drinking tube multiple times with clean, warm water until there's no trace of the cleaning solution's smell or taste. This step is especially important if you used bleach.
- Dry Completely: This is the most important step to prevent mold and bacterial growth. Hang the reservoir upside down with the opening propped open to allow air to circulate. You can use reservoir hangers designed for this purpose or improvise with household items. Disconnect the drinking tube and allow it to dry separately. Ensure everything is completely dry before storing.
Cleaning Frequency
- After Each Use: Rinse the reservoir with water and allow it to dry completely.
- Deep Cleaning: Perform a thorough cleaning with a cleaning solution every few weeks, or more frequently if you notice any odor or discoloration.
- Before Storage: Clean and thoroughly dry the reservoir before storing it for an extended period.
Storing Your Water Backpack
Proper storage is crucial for preventing mold growth:
- Dry completely: As mentioned above, ensure that your reservoir and tube are completely dry before storing.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing your water backpack in direct sunlight or in humid environments.
- Consider using reservoir hangers: These help to keep the reservoir open and allow air to circulate, preventing mold growth.
By following these steps, you can keep your water backpack clean, hygienic, and ready for your next adventure.
