What the gross black spots in your water bottle are doing to you: 'Breeding ground'

In the age of hydration obsession, water bottles have become as crucial as our daily coffee fix. We’ve got our favourite bottles, some of us even have a rotation going, and many carry them everywhere, all day. But could there be mould hiding in your trusty emotional support water bottle and doing you more harm than good?

Food Safety Auditor Edward McCartney from Food Safety Plus told Yahoo Lifestyle, "If you notice any signs of mould (black spots, unusual odours), it's crucial to clean and sanitise your bottle promptly. Mould can grow quickly in a moist environment, and ingesting mould spores can lead to health issues such as respiratory problems and allergic reactions."

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But how often are we truly checking out bottles for this kind of problem? After all, it’s easy to forget about your water bottle once it’s filled and you’re on the go, but if you’re not cleaning it regularly, you could end up carrying around more than just water.

How often should I clean my water bottle?

Mould loves damp, dark places, and guess where your water bottle fits that description? If you leave a bit of water in there or don’t let it dry out properly, you’re giving mould a perfect place to grow.

Edward suggests washing your water bottle daily with warm, soapy water and a bottle brush to scrub the inside, especially the hard-to-reach areas and the cap, which can harbour bacteria and mould. "Bottles should also be regularly sanitised by washing on the longest dishwashing cycle or by using boiling water," he says.

Another important thing to keep in mind is to avoid contamination, Edward cautions. "To minimise bacterial contamination, avoid touching the inside of the bottle or the mouthpiece with your hands. Always close the bottle when not in use, and avoid leaving water in the bottle for extended periods, as stagnant water can become a breeding ground for bacteria," he says.

How often should I replace my water bottle?

While cleaning and sanitising is your first port of call, it's also important to know when to say goodbye and spring for a new Stanley/Frank Green/Yeti etc.

Speaking to Yahoo Lifestyle, Food Scientist and microbiology expert Dr Vincent offered some valuable insights into when it's time to bid farewell to your trusty hydration companion.

Plastic bottles: Dr Vincent advises replacing plastic water bottles every 6 to 12 months. "Plastic bottles can degrade over time, even if they don’t show visible damage," he explains. "Degradation can cause bacteria to thrive, and UV exposure can disperse microplastics into your water." So, while the bottle might look fine, it’s a good idea to swap it out regularly to avoid potential health risks.

Stainless steel bottles: Stainless steel bottles are known for their durability and resistance to stains and odours. Dr Vincent suggests replacing them every 2 to 3 years, or sooner if you spot any damage. "Dents and micro-cracks can compromise the bottle's structural integrity, creating potential breeding grounds for bacteria," he notes. Regular checks for dents and damage can help keep your bottle in tip-top shape.

Glass bottles: Though less common, glass bottles are a sturdy choice as long as they’re handled with care. "Glass bottles don’t harbour odours or stains easily, but they should be replaced if they crack or chip," Dr Vincent advises. While they don’t need to be replaced as frequently as plastic or metal, any visible damage warrants a replacement to avoid potential issues.

Keeping bacteria at bay

It's not just scientists and safety experts who are trying to alert us to the potential danger lurking inside of our bottle besties - social media has also become a breeding ground of conversation about the importance of keeping on top of cleaning them.

Delish recipe developer, test kitchen assistant and TikToker Alessandra Cuiffo, emphasised the need for daily cleaning: "Yes! You’re drinking that!" she says as she dismantles a water bottle. "This is why you need to wash your water bottles every single day!"

She then provides a detailed rundown of how to clean your bottle properly saying, "Even if you think it's clean, I hate to break it to you, it’s probably not.”

What type of water bottle is best?

When it comes to mould resistance, the material of your bottle also plays a significant role. Dr Vincent highlights the differences:

Stainless Steel: "Stainless steel bottles are generally very resistant to mould due to their non-porous surfaces," he says. They’re also easier to clean thoroughly and don’t retain odours.

Silicone: Silicone bottles are flexible and heat-resistant but can sometimes retain odours or develop mould if not properly dried. "Ensure silicone bottles are dried thoroughly after washing to prevent mould growth," advises Dr Vincent.

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Plastic: Unfortunately, plastic bottles are the most prone to mould and bacteria growth, especially if not cleaned regularly or if they have scratches. "Scratches can harbour bacteria, so regular cleaning and timely replacement are crucial," he warns.

Kids’ Bottles: Dr Vincent also stresses the importance of checking kids' water bottles. "They often have food residues inside the sippy or straw system and may develop micro cracks due to frequent drops, which can leach microplastics and promote bacteria and mould growth."

In the meantime, keep sipping smart and don’t let your bottle become a breeding ground for bacteria.

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