How to Clean and Maintain Your Steel Cup for Long-Lasting Use

By waterdrop® Microdrink - Drink More Water | waterdrop® | Published: 2026-10-23

Category: Tips & Care

Learn the best way to clean and care for your waterdrop Steel Cup. Simple steps to keep it odor-free, shiny, and safe for both hot and cold drinks.

Quick Answer

Clean your Steel Cup after each use with mild soap and warm water, and deep-clean weekly with baking soda to remove odors. Avoid abrasive tools and dishwasher cycles to protect the double-walled stainless steel.

Why Regular Cleaning Matters for Your Steel Cup

The double-walled stainless steel construction keeps drinks at the right temperature, but it also creates a sealed air gap that can trap moisture if the cup isn't dried properly. Leftover liquid or residue can lead to musty smells over time.

Using the right cleaning methods preserves the cup's heat resistance and prevents scratches that could harbor bacteria. A well-maintained cup also makes your Microdrink flavors taste cleaner and more refreshing.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Routine

Rinse Immediately After Use: Pour out any leftover liquid and rinse the cup with warm water. This prevents residue from drying and sticking to the stainless steel surface. Don't let the cup sit empty for hours before rinsing; dried residue is harder to remove.
Wash with Mild Soap and a Soft Sponge: Apply a drop of mild dish soap to a soft sponge or cloth and gently scrub the interior and exterior. Focus on the rim and bottom where oils collect. Avoid steel wool or abrasive scrubbers—they can scratch the surface and damage the double-wall insulation.
Deep-Clean Weekly with Baking Soda: Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda to the cup, fill with warm water, and let it sit for 15 minutes. Scrub gently with a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly. Baking soda neutralizes odors without leaving a chemical aftertaste—skip vinegar if you use Microdrink cubes, as the smell can linger.
Dry Completely Before Storing: Turn the cup upside down on a drying rack or towel until fully dry. If you need it sooner, wipe with a clean, lint-free cloth. Storing a damp cup can cause musty smells and, over time, affect the stainless steel finish.
Optional: Use the Sip Lid for Extra Comfort: For additional drinking comfort, combine your Steel Cup with the Sip Lid. Clean the lid separately with warm soapy water and a small brush to remove buildup around the drinking spout. The Sip Lid is not dishwasher-safe; hand wash only to keep the seal intact.

Product Facts

Steel Cup: Made of heat-resistant, double-walled stainless steel, this cup is suitable for both hot and cold drinks. The double-wall design keeps your drink temperature stable but requires gentle cleaning to avoid damaging the vacuum seal.
Steel Cup