We are absolutely sure that you just love your water filter pitcher. Even more so, if you own a quality one that works extra hard to get your water free of any chlorine and fluoride, as well as bad smells and heavy metals. Completely understandable! And what do we do with the things we love so dearly? We take good care of them. This is why we are going to answer the pressing question - how to clean a water filter pitcher?

In order to be able to fully reap the benefits of using a water filter pitcher, you need to keep a clean water pitcher. There is no point in filtering your tap water if you are using a dirty pitcher. You would still wound up drinking water with bacteria, and that is what you are trying to avoid in the first place.

Keep reading for step-by-step instructions on how to make sure you always have access to your clean filtered water.

The Preparation

Other than accepting the fact that the water filter pitcher is now added to your to-do list as a cleaning item, there are a few other items to get if you don't already have them at your home. Even though it's perfectly fine to clean your water filter pitcher with plain soap and water (as it doesn't require any special or unique cleaning products), we'll still list everything you might need. Just in case, and also in the spirit of good organization.

• Liquid dishwashing soap
• Water (preferably warm)
• Sponge
• Vinegar (in case of mildew)
• Brush
• Bucket or small container (for soaking the pitcher)
• Paper Towels/ Towel (preferably lint-free microfiber)
• Clean space on a countertop or table (to keep pitcher components)
• Drying rack
• Replacement Filter (just in some cases, if needed)

Most water filter pitchers have a similar build, so you shouldn't have a problem using this guide for most of them. It will apply to their curves, crevices, reservoirs, and hollows in the handles, and it will get them squeaking clean.

If you have everything ready, you can now move on to the second step.

The Disassembly

You need to put apart your pitcher before being able to perform that deep clean that it needs. Some models are easier to disassemble than others, so if you are having any troubles removing any of the components from your pitcher - make sure you contact your provider and ask for further instructions, before incidentally damaging or breaking any of the parts.

However, most water filter pitchers will succumb to the following plan of action: Start the cleaning process by removing any water that might be leftover in the pitcher. This is followed by carefully removing the lid and taking out the filter element and top reservoir. Now is a good time to change the filter cartridge with a replacement filter, if it needs replacing. But, if it doesn't - just rinse it with warm water and put it aside while you finish cleaning the rest of the components.

The Washing

The third step on this little journey to a clean water pitcher is the actual opening act of the cleaning. Start with making a solution of warm water and dish soap. Take that solution and pour it into the lid, the pitcher, and the reservoir. Here is when your inner bartender comes out - shake and swish it around for a while (pretending it's a cocktail shaker) and then leave it to rest and soak for about 15 mins.

A fair warning - don't do the bartender bit if your water filter pitcher has a chrome lid or electronic display. In this case, use a soft, damp cloth to wipe it. This is not to say that you shouldn't use warm soapy water or a vinegar solution if any of them are needed, but simply be careful not to submerge the lid.

The Scrubbing

Time for the sponge and brush. To get the best possible results out of this step, you will need a small brush with a long handle. You will want to get to the bottom of all the stuck-on dirt and grime, and you simply won't be able to do that with an unfit brush or just the sponge. A good tip here is to try and use a toothbrush - it will easily fit in all the nooks and crannies, and it will reach the curves, crevices, and gaps.

While busy with scrubbing and brushing, keep in mind to be careful with the seal (if applicable). This is a part that you don't want tampered with or damaged.

The Rinsing

Okay, this step is a fairly obvious one, but here it is, nevertheless. After a satisfactory level of scrubbing is done, rinse the water filter pitcher with warm water. Do this multiple times, to make sure the solution you used is completely drained out and removed.

The Drying

Even though this step might also seem like an obvious one, it isn't. It contains an important message for your filter pitcher. In fact, it is entirely necessary to let your pitcher air dry completely. So, turn the jug upside down and place it on a drying rack.

Alternatively, if you are in a rush, you can use lint-free towels or paper towels to dry the water filter pitcher.

The Reassembly

The end is near! After working hard on cleaning your water filter pitcher, you still need to put all the pieces back together into one functioning, clean water pitcher. Make sure that the seal is in place and that all the pieces fit into their places perfectly. If needed, contact your provider to ensure the correct reassembly of your pitcher.

You've Done It!

Congratulations, there is nothing quite like the rewarding feeling of a job well done. Even if it's an easy one. Your water filter pitcher is cleaned, and you and your family members can safely enjoy all the benefits that filtered water has to offer.

Bonus Cleaning Tips

We want to make sure that your water is completely safe. We also want to make sure that you get the best use of your water filter pitcher, for the longest possible time. So, we've put together the bonus section for cleaning tips. These will help you maintain your pitcher in excellent condition.

• There is an age-old method that is used to immerse even deeper in the cleaning process. In the washing stage, add a few slices of lemon to sit and soak along with your solution. It is believed that adding lemon will ensure a deep clean, and it will also remove any unpleasant odors.

• Give your pitcher a quick rinse once a day to keep it fresh. Once a week wash it with warm water and soap. No need to bring out the sponges and brushes here and there is no need for scrubbing and soaking - a simple wash will do. However, a deep clean is necessary at least twice a month. Yes, soaking, scrubbing, sponges, and brushes included.

• It may seem like a good idea to simply put your pitcher in the dishwasher and be done with it. Regardless, most water filter pitchers are not dishwasher safe, so it is not a recommendable action. A pitcher put in the dishwasher may lose its form and become disfigured due to the very hot water and hard detergents.

• If you are experiencing mold and mildew and your water filter pitcher has a musty smell - there is a solution for this. It is a very common problem that can be successfully resolved by changing the cartridge according to schedule. Another reason you might have trouble with mold and mildew is skipping the drying step of the cleaning process. The pitcher needs to be completely dry before you move on to reassembling, otherwise - yes, you guessed it - mold and mildew.

Final Thoughts

A clean water pitcher is a good water pitcher. Deep cleaning the pitcher is beneficial for both yourself and the filter pitcher. If you tend to leave your pitcher uncleaned for a long period of time, the end result could be harmful to your health. As your water filter begins to pile on dirt, it will lose the effectiveness of filtering out damaging components that might be present in your tap water. Now, what it might actually do is add bacteria to the water you are drinking, as the moist environment in the pitcher filter is perfect for its multiplication. So, take good care of your health by taking good care of your water filter pitcher.

FAQ

Can Water Filters Be Cleaned and Reused?

Even though water filter cartridges are not meant to last forever, you can still prolong the life expectancy of your water filter by cleaning it and reusing it. However, this will not be a permanent solution, as eventually, you will need to change the filter cartridge.

How Often Should I Wash My Water Filter Pitcher?

There are three stages in the frequency with which you need to wash your water filter pitcher. Once a day, once a week, and twice a month. A simple rinse with warm water will do just fine for the once a day stage. A simple wash with soap will cover the once-a-week stage. But, twice a month you need to do a deep clean on your water filter pitcher to be on the safe and long-lasting side of things.

Can I Clean a Water Filter With Vinegar?

Absolutely, you can. A washing solution containing vinegar can prove very beneficial in resolving issues such as mold and mildew, as well as removing mineral buildup. Simply fill up your pitcher with vinegar and leave it to soak for a couple of hours. The highly acidic vinegar will dissolve the calcium film on surfaces (caused by hard water), leaving your water filter pitcher perfectly clean. After using the vinegar, just wash your filter with soap and warm water, as you normally would.

Can I Use Bleach To Clean a Water Filter Pitcher?

The mention of household bleach usually brings associations with disinfection and cleanliness. And, even though this is not wrong, you should still avoid using bleach or any harsh chemicals to clean your pitcher. The reason for this is that the hard chemicals can actually cause damage to the water filter. Use warm water and soap as the safest cleaning solution for your water filter pitcher.

How Do I Clean My Water Filter at Home?

The best practice to make sure that your water filter pitcher will be truly clean is the soak and wash practice. Using a solution of warm water and soap (or vinegar if needed), soak your pitcher for at least 15 mins to a couple of hours. Then wash it with warm water and soap and let it air dry.