How to Clean Copper Water Bottle or Drinkware

Copper water bottles have become a hot trend, with a 55% supply increase in the U.S. over the past year alone. But these bottles aren’t just pretty to look at; they also pack some serious health perks.

One big plus is their antimicrobial effect, which helps kill bacteria, yeast, and viruses on contact. Besides that, copper drinkware also helps with digestion, supports weight regulation, and even contributes to healthier skin, nails, and hair.

But like any precious metal, copper needs some TLC to keep delivering these health benefits. While copper water bottles are designed to last for generations, over time, they will start to lose their shine and develop water spots. This is natural.

So, don't panic if you notice your drinkware beginning to dull. We'll show you how to clean copper water bottle, get rid of these spots, and restore your drinkware's shine.  

We’ll also cover: 

• Why water spots happen
• When to clean your bottle
• Tips to keep it in great shape for years

Why Water Spots Form On Copper Water Bottles 

What the inside of a water spot-free copper bottle looks like 

Copper, like silver and brass, is a metal that reacts to its environment. Over time, when your copper water bottle is exposed to oxygen, water, and air, it develops a layer of tarnish or water spots. It’s a completely normal reaction and will not affect the taste of the water or its benefits. 

Interestingly, some tarnish is actually beneficial, as it shows your bottle is made from pure, 100% uncoated copper—which is what you want. Impure copper bottles or those with an interior lining that will neither tarnish won't offer health benefits.

The type of water you use can also cause water spots to build up. Most tap water contains chlorine and other minerals that can contribute to water spots. Still water (non-carbonated water) is best for your drinkware, as it results in less tarnish.

While most water spots are safe, there is one exception. A greenish-blue patina—similar to what you see on old coins—is unsafe inside your water bottle.

Keep in mind that this will never happen under normal use and is very obvious if it ever does (look at the color above; you can’t miss it). This only occurs after years of unuse, with moisture still locked inside the bottle. Or if you drink something besides still water with the bottle. 

P.S. If you ever notice this greenish-blue patina (like in the image above), it can be cleaned with exact methods explained below.

When And How To Clean Copper Water Bottle

Because copper is antimicrobial and naturally cleans itself, the bottle doesn’t need daily cleaning or any washing at all—except to remove water spots when there is a buildup.

We recommend you wash only when more than 25% of the bottle’s interior has water spots. The reason we suggest this is: at 25% buildup, water spots can make the bottle less effective. Clean, shiny copper is most reactive with water, and water spots can reduce the surface area and reactivity with water.

Step-by-step cleaning guide

Here are three different methods you can use to clean copper bottle at home naturally.

For the interior:

1. Lemon and salt method

• Cut a lemon in half.
• Sprinkle some salt on the cut side.
• Use this as a natural scrubber inside your bottle.
• Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
• Let the bottle air dry completely with the cap off.

2. Vinegar rinse method

• Pour a small amount of white vinegar into your bottle, about 1/4 full.
• Close the lid and shake the bottle vigorously for about 30 seconds.
• Let the vinegar sit in the bottle for about 15 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with warm water until you can't smell the vinegar anymore.
• Air dry as before.

3. Baking soda cleanse

• Fill your bottle about 1/3 full with warm water.
• Add a tablespoon of baking soda.
• Close the lid and shake well for about a minute.
• Let this mixture sit in the bottle for about 30 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

For the exterior:

A soft, damp cloth is usually sufficient. Avoid using any scrubs or abrasive material on the bottle’s protective exterior lacquer, as it can damage it.

What to avoid when cleaning your copper water bottle

1. Harsh scrubbers can damage the copper surface and the protective lacquer on the outside.
2. Dishwashers: Our CopperWater bottles are NOT dishwasher safe. The heat and harsh detergents can severely damage both the copper and the protective exterior lacquer.
3. Chemical cleaners and soap may also react negatively with the copper and result in more water spot buildup.

Tips To Keep Your Copper Bottle In Shape For Years

1. When I received my bottle, there were small water spots inside. Is this normal?

Yes, this is completely normal. It's not dirt—these are just water spots or tarnish, which occur during the final rinse cleaning when we make our bottles.

2. How often to clean copper water bottle?

Clean your bottle when about 25% of the interior shows tarnish. Depending on your water type—tap, filtered, or spring—you may not need to do a deep clean for many months or even longer.

3. Can I use my CopperWater bottle for hot beverages? 

No. It's best to stick to room temperature or cool still water. Hot beverages, like coffee, can accelerate tarnishing and may affect the bottle's beneficial properties.

Wrapping up

Cleaning your copper water bottle is a simple yet key part of copper bottle maintenance. But you should only clean it when about 25% of the inside looks tarnished, using either lemon and salt, vinegar, or baking soda. And do not drink anything besides still water with the bottle. These easy methods will keep your bottle effective and hygienic for years to come.