How to Clean a HydroJug Can Cooler So It Stays Odor-Free
By HydroJug | Premium Water Bottles for Your Active Lifestyle | Published: 2026-10-16
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to clean a HydroJug can cooler properly so it stays odor-free. Step-by-step guide covers daily rinses, deep washes, and what to avoid.
Quick answer
Clean your HydroJug can cooler after every use with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft bottle brush, then air-dry it completely with the lid off. For stubborn smells, soak the cooler in a baking soda solution for 30 minutes before washing. Avoid abrasive scrubbers and never put it in the dishwasher unless the manufacturer confirms it is dishwasher-safe.
Why your can cooler gets smelly (and why it matters)
Even if you only put sealed cans inside, a can cooler traps moisture, warmth, and tiny spills. That dark, damp space is perfect for odor-causing bacteria and mold. Stainless steel itself does not absorb smells, but the lid, threads, and rubber gaskets can hold onto sticky residue from sweet drinks or beer. If you notice a sour or musty smell, it is a sign that residue has built up in the crevices. Cleaning regularly prevents that and keeps your drinks tasting fresh.
What you need (and what to skip)
Gather warm water, mild dish soap, a soft bottle brush or sponge, and a clean towel. For tough odors, keep baking soda and white vinegar on hand. Skip abrasive scouring pads, bleach, and harsh chemicals. These can scratch the stainless steel or leave behind a chemical taste. Also avoid submerging the cooler if it has a screw-top lid with a locking system; water can get trapped inside and cause mold. Check your specific model's care instructions before using a dishwasher.
Step-by-step cleaning routine
- Rinse immediately after use: As soon as you finish your drink, empty the cooler and rinse it with warm water. This removes sticky residue before it dries and becomes harder to clean. Mistake to avoid: letting the cooler sit overnight with leftover liquid.
- Wash with mild soap and a soft brush: Apply a drop of mild dish soap to a soft bottle brush or sponge. Scrub the inside walls, the rim, and the screw threads. If your cooler has a gasket, gently clean around it without removing it unless the manufacturer says it is removable. Checkpoint: no visible residue or slippery feel remains.
- Deep-clean for stubborn odors: If a smell lingers, mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one cup of warm water. Let the solution sit inside the cooler for 30 minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. For extra odor removal, you can also soak the cooler in a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water for 15 minutes. Mistake to avoid: using bleach or harsh chemicals, which can damage the finish and leave a taste.
- Rinse and dry completely: Rinse all soap or cleaning solution away with warm water. Dry the cooler inside and out with a clean towel, then leave it upside down with the lid off to air-dry fully. Moisture left inside is the main cause of musty smells. Checkpoint: the cooler is completely dry before you store it.
- Store it open and clean: Keep the cooler in a dry, well-ventilated spot with the lid off or loosely attached. This prevents trapped moisture and lets air circulate. Next step: if odor persists after deep cleaning, replace the gasket or contact HydroJug support.
HydroJug can coolers that fit this routine
- Fruit Punch: HydroJug 12 oz Standard Can Cooler features double-wall stainless steel insulation, a screw-top locking system, and secures your can for a no-slip, no-spill experience. The screw-top lid and insulation mean you should clean the threads and gasket carefully to prevent odor buildup.
- Primrose: HydroJug 12 oz Slim Can Cooler is crafted from durable stainless steel and has a screw-top design to securely lock your can into place, preventing slips and spills. The slim shape and screw-top require a soft brush to reach inside without scratching.
