Tired of That Funky Bottle Smell? Here’s How to Keep Your Flasks Fresh and Odor-Free
Tired of That Funky Bottle Smell? Here’s How to Keep Your Flasks Fresh and Odor-Free
Whether it’s your gym water bottle, a flask for hot tea, or a jug you carry during long trips — we’ve all noticed that weird, musty smell that refuses to go away even after rinsing. This smell usually creeps in when bottles are used for more than just water. If you’ve ever stored juice, buttermilk, coffee, or even detox drinks in your bottle, you probably know what we’re talking about.
But don’t worry — there’s good news! Chef Pankaj Bhadouria, a well-known culinary expert, recently shared some easy and effective tips to completely eliminate that lingering odor from your bottles. These methods are not only simple, but also rely on ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Why Do Bottles Start to Smell?
Let’s be honest — bottles aren’t just for water anymore. These days, we carry lassi, flavored juices, buttermilk, coffee, and detox water in our flasks and bottles. While this is super convenient, it also means these liquids leave behind strong odors over time. And unfortunately, just rinsing with plain water usually doesn’t cut it.
Especially with drinks like tea or coffee, the smell tends to seep into the inner lining of the bottle or flask, particularly if it’s made of steel or plastic. So how do you deal with it?
Chef-Approved Hack: The Baking Soda & Vinegar Method
This is the most effective trick Chef Pankaj recommends — and it’s incredibly easy.
What you’ll need:
1 tablespoon of white vinegar
1 tablespoon of baking soda
A small amount of water
What to do:
1. Mix the baking soda and vinegar with a bit of water.
2. Pour the mixture into your bottle.
3. Close the lid and shake it thoroughly so the solution reaches every corner.
4. Let it sit for a few minutes if the smell is strong.
5. Rinse out the bottle with clean water.
This combination works wonders because baking soda neutralizes odors, while vinegar helps break down residue and bacteria. Together, they leave your bottle smelling fresh and clean.
Tried-and-Tested Alternatives
If you’re out of baking soda or vinegar, don’t worry — there are other natural methods you can try.
1. Lemon Juice Rinse
Lemon is known for its natural deodorizing properties. Just squeeze some fresh lemon juice into your bottle, add a bit of water, close the lid, and give it a good shake. Rinse well afterwards. The citrusy scent will replace any musty odor and also help disinfect the bottle.
2. Tea Bag Overnight Soak
This one might surprise you — but it actually works! Take a used or fresh tea bag, drop it into your bottle with water, and let it sit overnight. In the morning, discard the water and tea bag, and rinse the bottle. The tea helps absorb and neutralize the smell.
