Outdoor Blog

7 Easy Ways to Clean & Dry Your Hydration Bladder

Published

3 years ago

May 20, 2021

Boy with Hydration Pack on His Shoulder Wearing White Shirt before Surfing,

Cleaning your hydration pack’s bladder is probably the last thing on your mind right now. It’s one of those chores that’s remarkably easy to overlook and even the most experienced backpackers sometimes forget to scrub out the water bladder after every trip.

Yes, you read that right, you’re supposed to clean your water reservoir after each use! It may sound extreme, but water bottles, hydration packs, and other hydration reservoirs are the perfect environment for growing mildew, mold, and bacteria.

Thankfully cleaning and drying your hydration bladder isn’t too complicated. There are a few different ways to do it and we’ll cover them all below. First, let’s take a closer look at why it’s so important to keep your hydration pack clean.

Moisture from water and other fluids (especially sugary sports drinks) causes mold to grow easily.

Dangers of a Dirty Hydration Pack

Like many pieces of camping and backpacking gear, hydration packs are rarely cleaned as often as they should be. Most people are content to clean a water bladder only occasionally and just get used to the kind of nasty plastic taste that develops after a while. The thing is, that plastic taste means something is wrong!

At the risk of getting too nasty, part of the problem is that you can’t see into a hydration bladder. Unless you have a model that can be turned inside out, it’s anybody’s guess what’s in there. If we could see it, though, the necessity of cleaning your water bladder often would be clear.

It only takes a tiny bit of leftover water to grow mold and mildew in storage. Most of what grows are just gross, but there are also some dangerous pathogens that thrive in moist environments, so it’s important to take gear cleaning seriously.

There are a surprising amount of people who think that if you just put water in it, you don’t need to clean a hydration pack at all. This is not true! Not only does regular cleaning protect you from nasty bacteria, mold, and more, it will also make your water taste fresher and cleaner. This is what actually sells people on regular clearing. So try it once, taste the difference, and you’ll never go back.

7 Ways to Clean a Water Bladder

There are a few different kinds of hydration packs out there, but most used by hikers and backpackers today utilize a water bladder of some kind. And bladders have really been a game-changer for backcountry explorers of all kinds. You can carry more water much more easily in bladders than in water bottles.

Besides, most use a tube and bite valve to allow you to access water at any time without digging all through your pack for it. While some water bladders may need special kinds of care, the following methods should work on most models and are focused on removing build-up from the inside of the bladder.

You can and should also clean the outside to some extent, but it’s less important than the bladder itself. After all, the water you’re going to drink is what you want to keep clean. So here are the seven best methods for cleaning a water bladder.

1. Hydration Reservoir Cleaning Tablets

Perhaps the easiest method is to use cleaning tablets made specifically for water bladders. All the major hydration reservoir brands offer cleaning tablets. Just mix them with warm water and you’re ready to go. Be careful not to use hot water or boiling water as this can damage the lining of your hydration bladder.

You can also buy full reservoir cleaning kits for Osprey, Hydrapak, Platypus, and Camelbak bladders, among others. These will provide you with brushes and scrubbers designed specifically for the hydration pack you have and can make it easier to clean the mouthpiece and drinking tube. You don’t necessarily need a branded kit, however. DIY methods can work just as well.

2. Use a DIY Solution

So just what are the best DIY cleaning solutions for a hydration bladder? There are a lot of DIY recipes out there and many of them work to some degree. It’s going to depend somewhat on how dirty your bladder is. But any of these should be enough once you’ve started cleaning it out after every use.

One additional tip to keep in mind is that mixing chemicals can be dangerous. Make sure you have a clear idea of what you’re doing and be aware of which cleaners you should never mix. So, one option you have is to make a solution of baking soda and bleach and soak your water bladder in this before rinsing it out.

You’ll need a teaspoon of baking soda, and just a few drops of bleach per liter of water. You can use up one teaspoon of bleach if needed, but generally, less is plenty. Mix throughout in warm water to create a cleaning solution.

3. Other Natural Cleaning Solutions

Baking soda and bleach are far from the only options, however. For a more natural DIY solution, you can use white vinegar and baking soda. You’ll need a teaspoon of each per liter of water and you can use it in exactly the same way that you would a cleaning tablet or the bleach and baking soda solution.

Some people also add lemon juice, either before the main cleaner or by adding it to the mixture. Lemon juice is great for breaking down organic matter and build-up inside the water bladder. If you’ve used your bladder for something other than water, lemon juice can help break down any leftover organic material and combat residual smells.

You might want to play around with your DIY cleaning solution a bit too. Depending on how often you use your bladder, what you’re putting in it, and the climate you’re in, different solutions may work better. With all of these, you can adjust the ratios a bit as well. Just be careful not to overdo it!

4. Denture Cleaner

This is possibly the weirdest water bladder cleaning option out there, but it really does work. It makes sense too. After all, you want dentures to be clean enough to go in your mouth without damaging the material of the dentures. So, if you find it easier to get denture cleaner tablets, or if you want to save a little money (they’re cheaper than hydration pack cleaner tablets), this is a great option.

With all of these options, you can take off pieces like the mouthpiece and bite valve and soak them in a bowl for better access. If you need to scrub inside, the cleaner kits are really convenient for getting a good deep clean. You can find similar scrub brushes with general kitchen cleaning supplies as well.

Plates and foam in the kitchen sink, green ceramic tile background.

Dish soap doesn’t just work for dishes so go ahead and clean your hydration bladder with it!

5. The Classic: Dish Soap and Water

The simplest option out there is to use a small amount of dish soap with warm water. The advantage of this method is that almost everyone has dish soap on hand. But it can be tougher to rinse out thoroughly than some of these other solutions and you may want a more natural solution, especially out on the trail (More on that in a moment!)

With any of these solutions, or with a cleaning tablet, you’ll fill the bladder and then hold it over your head with the valve open, until water starts to run out. This ensures the cleaning solution or soapy water has reached every part of the hydration pack. After that, let it soak for 20-30 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.

6. Can I Use a Dishwasher?

So, it depends. Some hydration bladders are dishwasher safe and others are not. In particular, Hydrapak bladders are known for being safe to clean in the dishwasher. In particular, these are generally reversible which allows your dishwasher to actually reach the inside of the bladder. Otherwise, it’s not going to be of much use.

If you use the dishwasher, make sure to turn the bladder inside out and place it on the top rack. If your dishwasher has multiple settings, use the lighter ones, and possibly wash with warm water versus hot. After you remove your bladder from the dishwasher, you should still air dry it. Many washers have drying features, but they’re not strong enough to get all the moisture out.

7. Cleaning Your Bladder on the Trail

One particularly tricky aspect of keeping your hydration bladder clean is how to clean it on the trail. For long treks especially, this is essential. So what should you take into account for cleaning a water bladder as you go? The first thing you want to consider is to make sure you have a cleaning solution that’s fully biodegradable.

Natural soaps are one option, and Bottle Bright makes biodegradable water pack cleaning tablets as well. You use these the same as any other cleaning tablets. If you’re sourcing water on the trail, make sure to boil it before bringing it down to the temperature you want for cleaning.

After that, you fill the water bladder, let it soak for 20-30 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. You’ll want to pour the soapy water into a cathole a good distance from your water source. Again, you don’t want to end up drinking soap any more than you want to be drinking mold! Other than that, it’s pretty easy to clean and dry a hydration bladder on the trail. You can use use-specific drying racks, clothespins and a line, or even just a Y-shaped stick to dry it out.

Drying Your Hydration Bladder

The drying step is a little easier at home. But no less important! In addition to thorough rinsing, you want to dry your water bladder as fully as possible. It’s the moistness that allows mildew and mold to grow, so making sure your bladder is totally dry before you put it away is essential. The best way to do this is to air dry your bladder in a way that maximizes airflow into the bladder.

So you want to find a way to prop it open somewhat or hang it. If you do have a reversible bladder, turn it inside out to dry. Otherwise, you can use a cup hanger, clothes hanger, paper towel holder, or a clothespin on a line to hand dry your hydration bladder. Personally, I find a paper towel holder works best. Plus, it’s right there in the kitchen if you’re cleaning your bladder over the sink.

If you’re going to freeze your Camelbak, make sure it’s not completely full and that it’s right side up.

A Few Extra Camelbak Care Tips

Okay, by now it should be clear that cleaning out your water pack every time you use it is the best option for avoiding mildew, mold, and bacteria inside. There is, however, an extremely easy option if you don’t have time to dry it, or if you have to skip cleaning for some reason. Freeze it! This can also be a good storage option even if you do take good care of your hydration pack.

Freezing will prevent mildew from growing. After all, even the most careful attempt to dry out a water bladder is sometimes unsuccessful. You should also avoid putting especially smelly or strong liquids in your water bladder. For a group camping trip where you’re partying all day, it can be tempting to load up some wine or liquor in a water bladder.

Not only is this a bad idea from a hydration standpoint but it’s also likely to leave your bladder permanently smelling of pinot grigio. Fruit juices can also have this effect (and promote mildew growth), but whiskey is the absolute worst for this. Really, it’s not worth it!

Another Reason to Clean Your Hydration Bladder

In addition to keeping you healthy and happy while camping, cleaning your hydration bladder can help you out in a few other ways as well. Regular cleaning gives you a great opportunity to examine your bladder for mold growth, tears, and other issues.

Taking a close look at what comes out when you rinse it can help you identify a big problem before it gets worse. Or, it can give you a push to replace a bladder that’s seen better days. Finally, regular cleaning and maintenance can impact your warrant!

A lot of hydration systems come with warranties, but they’re only valid if you’ve been taking good care of the pack. If you do want to try and repair small problems, however, it’s not an unreachable goal. Small tears can be patched with silicone-based sealants, and again, lemon juice is a great way to get rid of stuck-in smells of build-up.

Final Verdict:

It may seem like a silly thing to get so worked up about, but cleaning your hydration bladder regularly can save you from some big headaches. After all, no one wants to come down with a nasty illness while out on the trail. And regular cleaning can extend the life of your bladder, help you get replacement gear if something breaks, and even gives you a chance to examine your hydration set up for issues at the end of each use.

Thankfully, there are many ways to clean a hydration pack, and they’re all relatively simple. In fact, you shouldn’t have to buy anything at all to do a good job of cleaning your water bladder. Just remember to use warm water rather than hot, rinse the bladder thoroughly, and make sure it’s completely dry before you put it away!

Bonus tip: Check out this great video on hydration pack storage tips for keeping your bladder in great shape between uses!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter