To clean a water filter pitcher, remove the filter, wash the pitcher, lid and reservoir in warm soapy water, and for hard-water film or mould wipe with a mix of water and white vinegar, then rinse well and dry. Cleaning the pitcher every couple of weeks stops mould, slime and odours from building up in the reservoir. Do not put the filter in the dishwasher. This guide explains how to clean a water filter pitcher properly.
Remove the filter, wash the pitcher, lid and reservoir in warm soapy water, and wipe hard-water film or mould with water and white vinegar, then rinse and dry. Clean every couple of weeks. Do not put the filter in the dishwasher.
How to Clean a Water Filter Pitcher
- Remove the filter cartridge and set it aside (keep it damp if reusing).
- Empty the pitcher and take out the reservoir.
- Wash the pitcher, lid and reservoir in warm soapy water.
- For hard-water film or mould, wipe with a 1:1 water and white vinegar mix and leave a few minutes.
- Scrub corners and the spout with a bottle brush.
- Rinse everything well and dry before reassembling.
Key Takeaway: The reservoir is where mould hides. The clear water in the pitcher looks clean, but the reservoir and lid stay damp and grow slime, so those are the parts to scrub and vinegar regularly, not just the visible jug.
Removing Mould and Slime
Mould and pink slime grow in damp residue. Wash with soapy water, then wipe with diluted white vinegar, scrub, and rinse. Dry fully before reassembling.
Hard-Water Film
White hard-water film comes off with a vinegar wipe. Rinse well afterward so no vinegar taste remains.
Do Not Dishwasher the Filter
Wash the pitcher parts by hand (check if any are dishwasher-safe), but never put the filter cartridge in the dishwasher, as heat damages it. Change the filter on schedule. See how often to change a filter.
Preventing Buildup
- Clean the pitcher every couple of weeks.
- Dry parts fully before reassembling.
- Do not leave water sitting for long periods.
- Change filters on schedule.
FAQ
How do you clean a water filter pitcher?
Remove the filter, wash the pitcher, lid and reservoir in warm soapy water, and wipe hard-water film or mould with water and white vinegar, then rinse and dry. Clean every couple of weeks.
How do you get mould out of a water filter pitcher?
Wash with soapy water, then wipe with diluted white vinegar, scrub the corners and spout, and rinse and dry fully. Clean regularly to prevent it returning.
Can you put a water filter pitcher in the dishwasher?
Wash the pitcher parts by hand unless they are marked dishwasher-safe, and never put the filter cartridge in the dishwasher, as heat damages it.
Bottom Line
Clean a water filter pitcher by removing the filter, washing the pitcher, lid and reservoir, and wiping mould or film with vinegar, then drying fully. Clean every couple of weeks and never dishwasher the filter. See our best water filter pitchers guide.
