How to Clean, Dry and Store a Hydration Reservoir

What You’ll Need

Gather the appropriate cleaning and drying supplies before disassembling the reservoir.

• Warm water
• Mild dish soap or reservoir cleaning tablets
• Reservoir cleaning brush
• Tube cleaning brush
• Clean air-drying area
• Reservoir dryer, if available

Important: Review the care instructions for your specific reservoir before using cleaning products or washing components in a dishwasher.

How to Clean a Hydration Reservoir

Clean the reservoir body, tube, bite valve and removable components so cleaning solution reaches every surface that comes into contact with your beverage.

1. Empty and Disassemble the Reservoir

Empty any remaining liquid. Remove the drinking tube, bite valve and other detachable components according to the instructions for your reservoir.

Do not force apart components that are not designed to be removed.

2. Add Warm Water and Cleaning Solution

Fill the reservoir with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap. You can also use a reservoir cleaning tablet according to its package directions.

Close the reservoir and gently shake it so the solution reaches the interior surfaces.

3. Clean the Tube and Bite Valve

Reconnect the drinking tube if needed. Hold the bite valve below the reservoir and open or pinch it to allow the cleaning solution to flow through the entire tube.

Use a tube brush to loosen residue inside the drinking tube. If the bite valve is removable, wash it separately with warm, soapy water.

4. Scrub the Reservoir

Use a reservoir brush to gently clean the interior, paying particular attention to:

• Corners and seams
• The area around the opening
• Caps and closures
• Connection points
• Areas with visible residue

Avoid sharp or abrasive tools that could damage the reservoir.

5. Rinse Thoroughly

Empty the cleaning solution and rinse the reservoir with clean water.

Run clean water through the drinking tube and bite valve. Rinse all removable components separately until no soap or cleaning solution remains.

When Does a Reservoir Need a Deeper Clean?

Give your reservoir a more thorough cleaning when:

• You carried a flavored or electrolyte beverage.
• You notice a lingering taste or odor.
• You see residue inside the reservoir or tube.
• The reservoir has been stored for an extended period.
• Routine rinsing is no longer sufficient.

Use a reservoir cleaning tablet according to its directions, then scrub and rinse the reservoir, drinking tube and bite valve thoroughly.

Do not combine cleaning products or use harsh chemicals unless they are specifically approved for your reservoir.

How to Dry a Hydration Reservoir

Moisture can remain in the reservoir’s corners, drinking tube and bite valve after rinsing. Dry each component completely before reassembling or storing the system.

1. Drain the Reservoir

Hold the reservoir over a sink and drain as much water as possible. Turn it in different directions to help release water trapped in the corners.

2. Keep the Reservoir Open

Prop the reservoir open so air can circulate through the interior. A reservoir dryer can help hold the inner surfaces apart and allow water to drain.

Do not seal the reservoir while it is damp.

3. Hang the Drinking Tube

Drain the drinking tube and hang it vertically with both ends open. Avoid leaving it tightly coiled, which can allow water to collect in low points.

4. Air-Dry the Remaining Components

Place the bite valve, cap and other removable parts on a clean surface with good airflow.

Before reassembling the system, check the reservoir’s seams, corners, tube and connection points for droplets or condensation. Continue air-drying if you find any moisture.

How to Store a Hydration Reservoir

Once every component is clean and completely dry:

• Store the reservoir in a clean, dry location.
• Keep it away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
• Leave removable parts disconnected when practical.
• Protect the reservoir from sharp or heavy objects.
• Inspect and rinse the system before using it again after extended storage.

Never store a hydration reservoir while it is still damp.

Cleaning After Water vs. Flavored Beverages

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

• Cleaning only the reservoir: Liquid also travels through the tube and bite valve, so clean the complete system.
• Storing it while damp: Moisture may remain in corners and inside the tube even when the outside looks dry.
• Using excessive heat: Use warm water and allow the system to air-dry unless its care instructions say otherwise.
• Using sharp tools: Choose brushes designed for hydration reservoirs and tubes.
• Leaving cleaning solution behind: Rinse until no soap, suds or cleaning-product scent remains.
• Reassembling too soon: Wait until every component is completely dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Clean My Hydration Reservoir?

Rinse and dry your reservoir after carrying water. Clean it more thoroughly after using flavored or electrolyte beverages, before long-term storage, or whenever you notice taste, odor or residue.

Can I Use Dish Soap to Clean a Hydration Reservoir?

Mild dish soap and warm water can be used for routine cleaning when permitted by the reservoir’s care instructions. Use a small amount and rinse every component thoroughly.

How Do I Clean the Drinking Tube?

Disconnect the tube if it is removable, rinse it and use a flexible tube brush to clean the interior. Run clean water through the tube after brushing to remove soap and loosened residue.

How Do I Dry the Drinking Tube?

Drain the tube, then hang it vertically or position it with both ends open. Avoid tightly coiling the tube while it dries.

Should I Leave the Reservoir Open While It Dries?

Yes. Keeping the reservoir open improves airflow and allows trapped moisture to escape. A reservoir dryer can help separate the interior surfaces.

What Should I Do If the Reservoir Still Smells After Cleaning?

Clean the complete system again using an approved reservoir cleaning tablet and appropriate brushes. Rinse thoroughly and allow every component to dry. Consider replacing any part that remains difficult to clean or shows signs of deterioration.

When Should I Replace the Tube or Bite Valve?

Replace components that are cracked, leaking, excessively worn, damaged or no longer possible to clean effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Clean the reservoir body, drinking tube, bite valve and removable components.
• Use warm water and mild dish soap or an approved reservoir cleaning tablet.
• Review the care instructions for your specific reservoir before using cleaning products or a dishwasher.
• Use reservoir and tube brushes rather than sharp or abrasive tools.
• Rinse every component until no cleaning solution remains.
• Keep the reservoir open while it air-dries.
• Hang the drinking tube with both ends open and avoid tightly coiling it.
• Clean more thoroughly after carrying flavored or electrolyte beverages.
• Never reassemble or store the hydration system while it is damp.
• Replace worn, leaking, damaged or difficult-to-clean components.

Sources and Standards Referenced

• CamelBak® hydration reservoir care and cleaning guidance
• General hydration reservoir, drinking tube and bite valve cleaning principles
• Common air-drying and long-term storage considerations for hydration systems
• Individual reservoir and cleaning-product care instructions

Shop Reservoir Cleaning Supplies

Find brushes, cleaning tablets, reservoir dryers and other supplies for cleaning and maintaining your hydration reservoir.

• Shop Reservoir Cleaning Supplies

Keep Your Reservoir Ready for Your Next Adventure

Clean the reservoir body, drinking tube and bite valve after use, rinse every component thoroughly and allow the complete system to air-dry before storage. A consistent care routine will keep your reservoir ready when it’s time to get back outside.

Need help caring for another CamelBak product? Visit our Care & Cleaning resource for additional product-care guidance.