How to Properly Clean a Cooler

Cleaning a cooler isn’t one of my favorite things to do but it’s necessary. A cooler should be thoroughly cleaned after each use to keep dirt and germs away. Here’s how I like to clean a cooler.

If the weather is nice take it outside into the yard. Fill it up with water from the garden hose with a little bit of liquid dishwashing soap. Let it soak for 30 minutes. Pour the water out. Use a wet microfiber cloth to wipe up any remaining messes inside it. Rinse it out with clean running water. Use a towel to dry or if the weather is nice…air dry.

Cleaning one during cooler weather can be accomplished inside using your bath tub. Fill it 3/4 of the way full with water and liquid dish soap. Let it soak for 30 minutes. Dump the water out. Use a microfiber cloth to scrub the inside and then rinse all of the soap and debris out. Use a towel to dry it or turn it upside down to let the water drain out & dry.

Stubborn Stains: Mix together 1 cup of water and 2 teaspoons of white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray this solution onto any stains. Let it sit for 10 minutes and then rinse clean. If that doesn’t work try using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Sometimes though…no matter what you do some stains won’t come clean.

Bacteria and Germs: If you feel that bacteria and germs may be inside it…use a antibacterial cleaning cloth inside and out. Rinse thoroughly with water and air dry. Do not pour liquid bleach inside a cooler!!! Natural Alternative is to wipe down the inside with pure white vinegar or apple cider vinegar and then rinse clean with water.

Additional tips: Do not place a lid onto the cooler until you’re sure it is thoroughly dry. Any enclosed moisture can cause mildew and mold to grow. Once everything is dry…place the lid on top and store it away until you need it.

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