Cleaning your Go Series Bottle and TumblerUpdated 2 months ago

To prevent mold and algae growth, we recommend cleaning your Go bottle filter weekly and doing a deep clean once a month. 

How to Clean and Store Your LifeStraw Go Series Bottle or Tumbler

Regular cleaning helps your bottle perform better and last longer. Follow these steps to keep it clean and mold-free:

Before Storing

• Prevent Mold: Store the membrane filter in saltwater when not in use.
  Important: Do not put saltwater in stainless steel bottles—it can cause rust.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Remove Carbon Filter
2. Let it air dry for 30 minutes. Store it in a sealed bag or container.
3. Disinfect the Membrane Filter
   • Mix ¼ tsp (1.25 ml) bleach with 2 cups (0.5L) clean water.
   • Attach the empty carbon chamber to the membrane filter and reassemble it into the lid.
   • Pour the bleach solution into the bottle, close the lid, and let sit for 5 minutes.
     • For deep cleaning, you may allow the solution to sit for an hour or more being sure to rinse thoroughly. 
   • Rinse twice with clean water, shaking 30 seconds each time.
   • Blow through the filter to remove any leftover bleach.
     Salt Storage Solution
   • Mix 1 tsp salt with 0.5L water in a non-metal container or bag.
   • Place the membrane filter in the salt solution and seal.
     Tip: Plastic bottles can hold the solution, but never use this method with steel bottles or tumblers.
     Storage
   • Store the saltwater + membrane filter in a cool, dry place.
   • Keep the carbon filter in a sealed bag inside the bottle and close the cap.

Before Using Again

• Reinsert the carbon filter.
• Discard the saltwater and reinstall the membrane filter.
• Fill the bottle and discard the first few sips if salty.
• If stored for 3+ months, replace the carbon filter.

Alternative Cleaning Methods (Use with Caution)

We’ve also received questions about using vinegar or hydrogen peroxide on the membrane filters (not for use on carbon filters):

• Vinegar:
  Vinegar can be used to remove iron and lime scale buildup. Soak the membrane overnight, then backwash and rinse until no residue remain. Note- the vinegar taste will remain for a short period but can be removed by rinsing and backwashing very thoroughly. 
  Monthly vinegar soaks may help if your water is high in minerals. However, vinegar is not effective for mold removal.
• Hydrogen Peroxide:
  This may help with short-term disinfection. However, hydrogen peroxide is not effective at preventing mold growth during long-term dry storage.

For best results—especially if storing your filter for more than a few days—we continue to recommend the bleach and salt solution method. 

Quick Tip: If you won’t be using your bottle often, store the membrane filter separately. Leaving it damp inside the bottle can lead to mold—even if it looks dry.