As someone who’s hiked trails from the Sacred Valley of Peru to the rugged Alps on the Tour du Mont Blanc, I can tell you that your water reservoir is your lifeline out there. Whether you’re trekking through high-altitude passes or tackling the Inca Trail, staying hydrated is key to powering through each day’s challenges, and can significantly help you ward off altitude sickness. But here’s the thing—a dirty water reservoir can make your hydration system a headache instead of a help.
Let’s break down the best way to clean and care for your reservoir so it’s always ready for the next adventure.
Why Clean Your Reservoir?
Water reservoirs are perfect breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and bacteria, especially if left damp for long periods. No one wants to drink moldy water halfway to Everest Base Camp. Plus, regular cleaning helps extend the life of your gear—meaning more adventures and fewer replacements.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Empty & Disassemble: After every trip (or even every use), empty your reservoir completely. Take apart the bite valve and tubing for a more thorough clean.
Wash with Soap & Water: Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush or sponge to scrub the interior. Don’t forget the nooks and crannies of the bite valve and hose. There are very handy reservoir cleaning kits that come with drying hangers, long, soft brushes, and more. I like the Hydraulics Reservoir Cleaning Kit by Osprey.
Use a Cleaning Tablet (Optional): For deep cleans, especially after long trips, add a cleaning tablet to the water and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. These are a lifesaver after dusty treks like the Salkantay. I like these cleaning tablets that you can get at most local gear outfitters: Reservoir Cleaning Tablets
Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure all soap or cleaning solution is completely rinsed out.
Dry Completely: Hang your reservoir upside down with the cap off and prop open the opening so it can air out fully. Mold hates dry spaces!
Pro Tips
Cleaning Alternatives: If you don't want to purchase the reservoir cleaning tablets, some alternatives that work well are:
1/4 cup baking soda mixed in 3/4 cup water, per liter of reservoir
2-5 drops of unscented bleach, per liter of water
1/4 cup lemon juice, per liter of water (can be combined with bleach and baking soda)
Denture cleaning tablets--while not specifically made for water reservoirs, they can work in a pinch.
Store Dry: If you’re not using your reservoir for a while, store it in the freezer to prevent mold growth.
Pack Cleaning Tools: On longer trips, I bring a small cleaning brush or sponge for quick cleanups. It’s saved me more than once on multi-day treks.
Upgrade If Needed: If your reservoir has an irreversible funk, it might be time to upgrade. A reliable, clean reservoir is worth every penny when you’re on a remote trail.
Stay Adventure-Ready with Authentica
At Authentica, we specialize in taking care of all the details so you can focus on the journey. From providing packing tips to connecting you with experienced guides, we make your adventure seamless. Join us for upcoming trips like Everest Base Camp, where hydration is more than a necessity—it’s your lifeline to the destination.
Taking care of your gear is just as important as training for the adventure itself. So, grab your reservoir, give it a good clean, and get ready to fill it with the memories of your next big journey!
What’s your go-to trick for keeping your gear trail-ready? Share in the comments, and let’s keep the conversation flowing—just like your clean reservoir!
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