Water Cooler Cleaning Tips

Water coolers provide a great source of clean, pure drinking water which is essential to a healthy life. Periodic cleaning of the water cooler in a home or office is necessary to ensure the health and safety of all who use the cooler.

The Brookhaven National Laboratory, a major research center, has put together for their staff recommendations for the proper cleaning procedures for water coolers.

The following is adapted from that document.

• Clean the water cooler at each bottle change, or every six weeks.
• Prepare a disinfecting solution by adding one tablespoon of household bleach to a gallon of water.
• Make sure the water cooler is unplugged from the electrical outlet.
• Remove the empty bottle from the dispenser.
• Always wear disposable gloves and safety goggles when using bleach.
• Use a sponge to scrub the interior surface of the water cooler reservoir with the bleach solution and let stand for at least two minutes, but no more than five minutes.
• Drain the bleach solution through the faucet into a bucket or other receptacle.
• Rinse the reservoir four times with clean tap or bottled water.
• Remove the drip tray and wash in bleach solution or mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly.
• Wash hands or use gloves before handling a fresh bottle of water.
• Wipe the top and neck of the bottle with a paper towel dipped in bleach solution.
• Check expiration date on bottle, remove cap and place on water cooler.

By following these cleaning directions, the water cooler will remain free of bacteria and provide years of healthful service.