How Do You Clean a Backpacking Bladder?

By Alice Nichols

Cleaning and maintaining your backpacking bladder is an essential part of caring for your gear. A well-maintained bladder can last for years, but a neglected one can lead to bacteria growth and an unpleasant taste. To ensure the health and safety of your drinking water, it’s important to properly clean and disinfect your bladder after each use.

The first step in cleaning a backpacking bladder is to remove any debris from the reservoir. This can be done by rinsing the bladder with clean water, then using a brush or cloth to scrub away any dirt or residue that may have built up inside. If you’re using a brush, make sure it is a soft bristled brush that won’t scratch the interior of the bladder.

Once all visible debris has been removed, fill the reservoir with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Gently swish the soapy water around to help remove any remaining particles that may be clinging to the walls of the reservoir. Then empty the reservoir completely and rinse it out several times until all traces of soap are gone.

To disinfect your backpacking bladder, mix 1 tablespoon of unscented bleach per quart (1 liter) of warm water. Fill up your reservoir with this solution and let it sit for 20 minutes before thoroughly rinsing it out with clean tap water. Be sure to rinse it until there are no traces of bleach left behind.

Finally, let your backpacking bladder air dry completely before storing it away in a cool, dry place. This will help prevent bacteria growth or musty odors from developing inside.

Cleaning your backpacking bladder regularly is an essential part of caring for your gear and ensuring safe drinking water while on outdoor adventures. With proper maintenance and care, you can keep your bladder in top condition for years to come.

Conclusion: To properly clean and disinfect a backpacking bladder, first remove any debris from inside by rinsing with clean water then scrubbing away any dirt or residue with a soft bristled brush. Next mix 1 tablespoon of unscented bleach per quart (1 liter) of warm water then fill up the reservoir with this solution and let it sit for 20 minutes before thoroughly rinsing it out with clean tap water. Finally, let the bladder air dry completely before storing away in a cool, dry place.