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How to Clean and Sanitize Water Storage Containers: A Complete Guide
When it comes to emergency preparedness, water storage is non-negotiable. But simply filling containers with water isn’t enough — ensuring that those containers are clean and sanitized is crucial for maintaining the quality of your stored water. Dirty or contaminated containers can not only affect the taste and odor of your water but can introduce harmful bacteria or chemicals, potentially making your water unsafe to drink. Regular cleaning and sanitization help prevent these issues, ensuring that your stored water remains safe and potable.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of cleaning and sanitizing your water storage containers. Whether you’re using plastic jugs, collapsible containers, or large 55-gallon drums, following these steps will help ensure your water stays fresh and safe when you need it most.
6 Steps to Properly Wash and Sanitize Your Water Storage Containers
#1 – Essential Supplies for Cleaning Water Storage Containers
Before you start cleaning, gather the necessary supplies.
- Liquid dish soap
- Non-abrasive scrubber or sponge
- Clean water (preferably warm or hot)
- Solution of choice
- Unscented household bleach (6% – 8% sodium hypochlorite)
- White Vinegar
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Tablespoon for measuring
- Clean cloth or paper towels for drying
#2 – Wash the water storage containers
- Fill each container with soapy water and wash:
- Use a non-abrasive scrubber or sponge to clean the interior walls, focusing on hard-to-reach areas like the corners and around the opening.
- For a 55-gallon drum, use a long-handled brush to scrub.
#3 – Rinse the water storage containers
- After washing, rinse the container with clean water to remove any traces of soap.
- Be thorough to ensure no soap residue remains.
#4 – Sanitizing water containers: 3 options
After cleaning, it’s crucial to sanitize your containers to eliminate any remaining microorganisms. Follow these three steps:
Prepare the sanitizing solution:
Choose from the following options:
- Bleach Solution: Mix 1 tablespoon of unscented household bleach (6%-8% sodium hypochlorite) per gallon of water. Be aware that commercial or stronger bleaches may require different dilutions, so always check the label. After sanitizing, any residual bleach will be minimal and generally safe after rinsing with clean water.
Alternative Solutions:
If you prefer not to use bleach, you can sanitize your containers with other safe alternatives. These options are less harsh but still effective for disinfecting:
- White Vinegar: Use pure white vinegar by filling the container and letting it sit for at least 30 minutes before rinsing.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Mix 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide with 1 gallon of water and use the same steps as with bleach.
Apply the solution:
- Fill the container approximately ¼ full with the sanitizing solution.
- Close the lid and swish the liquid around to ensure it coats the entire inside surface of the container.
- For difficult-to-clean containers (e.g., large drums or those with small openings)
- Using a pressure washer can help reach the interior surfaces of large containers, especially those with small openings.
- Using flexible cleaning tools like bottle brushes with bendable handles or pipe cleaners can help you reach difficult areas.
Let sit:
- Allow the solution to sit for at least 2 minutes but it can be left for up to 15 minutes to ensure thorough disinfection.
#5 – Rinse the water storage containers
- After sanitizing, rinse the container thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining bleach solution.
#6 – Dry the water storage containers
Allow your containers to air-dry completely before filling them with water. Drying the containers prevents mold or bacterial growth caused by trapped moisture.
- Place the containers upside down on a clean towel or drying rack to ensure proper airflow.
- For larger containers, like 55-gallon drums, leave the lid off and tilt the drum slightly so any remaining water can evaporate.
How Often to Clean and Sanitize Water Storage Containers
The frequency of cleaning depends on how you use the container and how long the water is stored:
Before First Use – Always clean and sanitize new containers before using them for water storage.
At the Scheduled Rotation – Every 6 months to 5 years
After Every Use – Any time you take water from storage for camping or other short-term trips
Pro Tips for Maintaining Your Water Storage Containers
Label Containers – Always label your containers with the date they were filled and cleaned. This will help you keep track of rotation schedules and ensure you’re using the freshest water.
Learn more about labeling containers
Proper Storage Conditions – Store containers in cool, dark areas, ideally between 50°F and 70°F, to prevent algae or bacterial growth. Avoid areas exposed to direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can degrade the container material over time.
Learn More about proper proper storage conditions
Check for Leaks – Regularly inspect containers for signs of wear like cracks or leaks, which could introduce contaminants. Damaged containers should be replaced promptly to maintain water safety.
Learn More about regular maintenance
Conclusion
Cleaning and sanitizing your water containers might seem like a tedious task, but it’s an essential practice for maintaining safe, clean water. By following these steps regularly, you can ensure that your water containers remain free from harmful contaminants, providing you with peace of mind and safe drinking water whenever you need it. Don’t wait until an emergency strikes to realize your water storage system isn’t up to par. Start by cleaning and sanitizing your containers today to ensure your family’s water supply is safe and reliable.
