Is it okay to use my old hydration pack after cleaning it with baking soda and lemon juice

Seeking Advice
1

Trying to get out on some winter trails, and remembered I had this stowed away since pre pandemic. Would it be safe to use after cleaning? I’ve always cleaned it pre and post use, but the hose has a bit of a yellow tint to it now after years of no use, and I’m curious if cleaning will cause more harm than good at this point.

I’m low of funds so I can’t go buy a new one, but really would like to utilize it. If it’s a lost cause, give it to me straight! No hurt feelings. Just curious if others have had this experience. Thanks!

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2

Try using denture tablets with liquid in the tube for better cleaning. This method is effective in killing bacteria.

3

Zara said:
Try using denture tablets with liquid in the tube for better cleaning. This method is effective in killing bacteria.

This is a new tip for me, thanks!

4

Hale said:

Zara said:
Try using denture tablets with liquid in the tube for better cleaning. This method is effective in killing bacteria.

This is a new tip for me, thanks!

Check your local dollar store for these tablets!

5

@Mackenzie
Absolutely, they’re budget-friendly and effective.

6

Hale said:

Zara said:
Try using denture tablets with liquid in the tube for better cleaning. This method is effective in killing bacteria.

This is a new tip for me, thanks!

Or you could use antibacterial dish soap with warm water. Just a couple of drops, shake, and let it sit for a few minutes.

7

Zara said:
Try using denture tablets with liquid in the tube for better cleaning. This method is effective in killing bacteria.

Is this method suitable for cleaning the hydration pack bag too?

8

@Keagan
Yes, that’s exactly what I meant. Fill the bag with water, add a tablet, and draw it into the tube using gravity. Remember not to drink any of it. Rinse well afterwards.

9

An old trick is to use a zigzag-shaped metal coat hanger to keep it open for drying. It’s getting hard to find metal coat hangers these days, though.

10

Sam said:
An old trick is to use a zigzag-shaped metal coat hanger to keep it open for drying. It’s getting hard to find metal coat hangers these days, though.

That’s a great idea, thanks for sharing!

11

@Hale
If it lacks a hanging hole, use a large black paper clip and some cup hooks from a hardware store.

12

Sam said:
@Hale
If it lacks a hanging hole, use a large black paper clip and some cup hooks from a hardware store.

You should consider sharing these tips more widely, they’re very helpful, thank you!

13

Sam said:
An old trick is to use a zigzag-shaped metal coat hanger to keep it open for drying. It’s getting hard to find metal coat hangers these days, though.

Try asking a local dry cleaner for a metal hanger, they usually give them out if you ask nicely.

14

@Mason
I just prop mine open over a glass to dry it, no need for a hanger.

15

Consider using isopropyl alcohol for cleaning. It’s effective against bacteria, fungi, and viruses and safer than bleach.

16

Darby said:
Consider using isopropyl alcohol for cleaning. It’s effective against bacteria, fungi, and viruses and safer than bleach.

Thanks for the alternative suggestion, I appreciate the constructive advice!

17

@Hale
Always rinse well after using any cleaning agent. Happy trails!

18

Darby said:
@Hale
Always rinse well after using any cleaning agent. Happy trails!

Bleach is more effective at killing bacteria and safe if rinsed properly. Dilute bleach for cleaning and rinse before use. A few drops per liter can make water safe to drink if concerned about viruses.

19

@Arin
That’s a useful tip, thank you for sharing!

20

You can also use 3% hydrogen peroxide, which is an affordable option.