How to Remove Odors from Your S'well Insulated Bottles and Tumblers

Even the best-insulated bottles can pick up odors over time. Coffee stains, tea residue, or just leaving water sitting too long can leave your S'well bottle smelling less than fresh. The good news: removing smells from stainless steel is easy with a few household staples, and it doesn't require harsh chemicals.

Whether you use your Original Bottle with Flip Straw Cap daily or rely on a 30oz Tumbler XL Bumper for iced coffee, a periodic deep clean will keep your gear tasting like new. Here's how to tackle odors and maintain that fresh, clean stainless steel surface.

Why Odors Linger in Insulated Bottles

Stainless steel is non-porous, which means it doesn't absorb flavors like plastic does. But odors can still cling to traces of oils, coffee residue, or mineral deposits from tap water. If you leave a bottle closed with liquid inside for hours, bacteria can also contribute to mustiness. The tight seal on S'well insulated tumblers and bottles—while great for temperature retention—can trap these smells if not cleaned regularly.

Common culprits include coffee, tea, protein shakes, and even plain water if your local supply has high sulfur or chlorine content. The good news: with the right technique, you can banish these odors completely without damaging the vacuum insulation.

• Always rinse your bottle immediately after use to prevent residue from drying.

The Baking Soda Method: Simple and Effective

Baking soda is your best friend when it comes to neutralizing odors in stainless steel. For a standard 17oz Original Bottle, add two tablespoons of baking soda, fill with warm water, screw the cap on loosely, and shake gently. Let it sit overnight or at least six hours. In the morning, empty and rinse thoroughly with hot water. The baking soda will lift any trapped smells without scratching the interior.

For larger bottles or tumblers like the 30oz Tumbler XL Bumper, use about three tablespoons. You can also scrub the inside with a soft bottle brush on the Straw Set included with many S'well lids or a dedicated Stainless Steel Straw Set—just be sure to avoid abrasive pads that could dull the finish.

• For stubborn odors, make a paste of baking soda and water and let it sit on the walls for 30 minutes before rinsing.
• Never use bleach or chlorine-based cleaners; they can damage stainless steel and leave a chemical aftertaste.

Vinegar and Lemon for a Deeper Clean

White vinegar is excellent for cutting through mineral buildup and killing odor-causing bacteria. Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water, fill the bottle, and let it soak for 15–20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with hot water afterward—the vinegar smell will disappear as it dries. If you prefer a citrus scent, squeeze half a lemon into the bottle before adding water and let it sit for an hour.

This method works well for the Original Bottle with Flip Straw Cap, but be sure to also clean the straw and lid separately. The small crevices in flip straw caps can trap odors if neglected. Soak the cap and straw in the same vinegar solution, then scrub with a straw brush. Rinse everything well to avoid any lingering sour taste.

• For daily maintenance, rinse with hot water and a drop of mild dish soap after each use.
• Avoid soaking silicone gaskets in vinegar for more than 30 minutes to prevent degradation.

Preventive Tips to Keep Your S'well Gear Fresh

The easiest way to remove smell from your S'well bottle is to prevent it from forming. Always empty and air-dry your bottle with the cap off after each use. If you drink coffee or tea regularly, consider dedicating a separate bottle for those beverages to avoid cross-flavoring. For the best long-term care, give each bottle a deep clean (baking soda or vinegar method) at least once a month.

For on-the-go users, the Travel Bottle Set makes it easy to swap between beverages without cross-contamination—just label each bottle for its use. And if you ever notice a lingering smell that won't go away, a quick cycle in the dishwasher (top rack, no heat dry) can help. Always check the care instructions for your specific lid, as some S'well lids are hand-wash only.

• Store your bottle with the cap off to allow air circulation.
• Use a dedicated bottle brush for hard-to-reach bottom corners.

Removing odors from your S'well insulated bottles and tumblers is straightforward with baking soda, vinegar, or lemon. By incorporating a simple deep-clean routine into your regular maintenance, you can enjoy fresh-tasting water and coffee every day. Keep your gear clean, and it will keep your drinks at the perfect temperature for years to come.