If you’re a regular user of plastic water bottles, you may experience weird smells from the bottles over time. Sometimes, it can smell like rotten eggs, sometimes, the smell can be like a wet dog.
You may ask, “Why does my plastic water bottle smell?” Well, such odors can come from bacteria buildup, leftover drinks, or the plastic itself absorbing smells.
Is it safe to use? What’s the best way to clean it? Don’t worry; this guide covers everything you need to know, from why the smell happens to easy, effective ways to banish it for good.
Let’s make your water bottle fresh again!
5 Reasons Why Your Plastic Water Bottle Smells
Common questions from plastic bottle users are: “Why does my water bottle smell like a wet dog? Or, Why does my water bottle smell like rotten eggs?”.
Here, we will talk about the five reasons why plastic water bottles smell weird.
1. Bacterial Build-Up
A common reason for water bottles developing an unpleasant smell is the build-up of bacteria. It usually happens when you don’t clean a bottle that is used daily and thoroughly. Without regular washing, bacteria can grow over time, which creates odors that are difficult to ignore.
Storing your plastic water bottle unintentionally in damp or sealed conditions for long periods can further lead to bad smells. To prevent this, it’s best to let the bottle air dry with the lid off after washing.
2. The Type of Plastic
The plastic-type in your bottle can make a big difference in how it smells. Lower-quality plastics, like polyethylene (PET) or polycarbonate (PC), tend to absorb and hold onto odors.
If your bottle smells like chemicals or plastic, especially when it’s brand new, or after it’s been in the heat, this could be the reason. These plastics are porous, so they trap smells and even bacteria over time.
Using your bottle regularly can also cause tiny scratches inside, which may give bacteria a place to hide and grow. This leads to that unpleasant odor no one wants to deal with.
The good news? You can avoid this by choosing bottles made from high-quality plastics like Tritan™. Tritan™ is odor-resistant, tough, and free of harmful chemicals.
3. Effects of High Temperatures
Exposure to heat can also lead to bad odors in plastic water bottles. High temperatures can cause gases inside the bottle to react, which may lead to an unpleasant smell.
4. The Duration of Water Storage
Even when cleaned regularly, your bottle may still develop a wet dog smell due to stagnation.
Certain plastics can leach chemicals into the water, leaving behind a bad taste and odor. Leaving water in the bottle overnight, even in small amounts, can cause bacteria growth, leading to odors the next day.
5. The Liquid Inside
Sometimes, the smell isn’t caused by the bottle itself but by the liquids stored in it.
For instance, if you use your bottle for juices, sodas, or coffee, their flavours can seep into the bottle’s material. Even if you only use your bottle for water, the quality of the water can sometimes be the culprit.
Groundwater with hydrogen sulfide can cause a rotten egg smell, while chlorinated tap water may leave a chemical or “pool-like” odor. If you notice such smells, test your water source, as the problem may lie with the water and not the bottle.
Should You Drink From A Smelly Water Bottle?
If your plastic water bottle still smells or has stains that won’t go away, it’s time to stop using it.
Scratches on plastic can become breeding grounds for bacteria, which will surely lead to health risks when ingested. Plus, the smell? That’s likely coming from the chemicals in the plastic, and it’s not going away anytime soon.
It’s best to switch to stainless steel water bottles as they are super tough, don’t stain easily, and won’t hold onto bad smells. Plus, you won’t have to worry about tiny scratches becoming a hideout for bacteria.
How to Get Rid of The Smell in Plastic Water Bottle?
If your bottle already smells bad, don’t worry; here are some tried-and-true methods to get rid of the odor.
Method 1: Use Soapy Water
Firstly, clean your bottle properly. Take a bowl and fill it with hot, soapy water. Place the bottle in the water and get a bottle brush to scrub every inch, paying extra attention to crevices and hard-to-reach areas. Let it air dry upside down to prevent water from pooling, which could cause future smells.
Method 2: Remove Odors with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and works wonders on smelly water bottles.
- Add two tablespoons of baking soda into your bottle, then fill it with warm water.
- Close the lid and shake the mixture to distribute it evenly.
- Allow the bottle to sit overnight so the baking soda can break down any odor-causing compounds.
- The next morning, rinse the bottle thoroughly with clean water and let it dry completely.
This method is safe, effective, and works for both plastic and stainless steel bottles.
Method 3: Try Vinegar
Vinegar can also effectively neutralize metallic or stubborn odors.
- Pour white vinegar into the bottle and let it sit for a few hours. The acidic nature of vinegar helps to break down odor-causing substances while boiling water sterilizes the interior.
- After the soaking period, rinse the bottle thoroughly with warm, soapy water to remove any lingering vinegar scent.
- Allow the bottle to air dry completely before using it again to ensure it stays fresh.
Note: Proper storage is essential to prevent odors from returning. Once your water bottle is completely dry, store it upright with the lid off to allow airflow. Do not leave any water in the bottle when storing it, as even a small amount can become stagnant and smelly over time.
FAQs
Why Does My Water Bottle Smell Like Mud?
The dampness inside your bottle creates an ideal spot for bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms to thrive. This buildup is what causes those bad smells which can be anything like mud, rotten eggs, etc. To keep your bottle fresh and hygienic, make sure to wash it thoroughly every day.
How To Clean A Plastic Water Bottle Without A Brush?
Pour in half a cup of water, add a tablespoon of uncooked rice, and a small drop of dish soap. Seal the bottle tightly and give it a shake. The rice acts like a gentle scrubber, helps to loosen and remove stubborn residue from the inside. Once done, rinse the bottle with hot water to clear out any remaining rice and soap.
Last Thoughts
Hopefully, you’re not confused about “why does my plastic water bottle smell?” anymore.
Plastic water bottles smell due to trapped odors from the material, bacteria buildup, or leftover liquids. Regular cleaning with soap, warm water, or natural solutions like vinegar and baking soda can help eliminate odors and keep your bottle fresh.