If your Owala smells or has black or pink spots, the cause is almost always the lid, not the bottle. Take the lid apart, pull out the spout gasket, and clean each piece; the gasket, the straw and the channel under the spout are where moisture and residue collect. Carolina Arey, last reviewed September 30, 2026.
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Where mold hides in an Owala
| Spot | Why it happens |
|---|---|
| Under the spout gasket | The rubber ring holds a thin film of water and residue |
| Around the straw connection | A tight spot a brush does not reach on a quick rinse |
| The lid channel and button edges | Small recesses that stay damp |
| The bottle base and mouth | Sweet drinks or a closed bottle left wet |
Owala calls the gasket a magnet for germs and mold if it is not cleaned often.
How to remove mold from an Owala
- Stop using it and take it apart. Remove the lid, straw and gasket.
- Soak in white vinegar. Put the lid parts, straw and gasket in distilled white vinegar for a few minutes. Owala suggests vinegar for breaking down buildup in hard-to-reach areas.
- Scrub. Use a straw brush and soft sponge with warm soapy water on every recess. Do not use abrasive scrubbers or bleach; Owala’s guidance says to avoid harsh chemicals.
- Wash the body. Fill the bottle with warm soapy water and brush the inside, including the base.
- Rinse well and dry fully with the parts separated.
- Inspect the gasket. If dark stains remain after washing, or the rubber is torn or sticky, replace it.
If the mold keeps returning after a full clean, replace the lid or gasket rather than keep scrubbing.
How to get the smell out of an Owala
- Musty or sour smell: a full teardown and vinegar soak usually solves it. Dry the parts completely.
- Lingering flavor from coffee, tea or juice: wash after each use and leave the lid off between uses so air can move through.
- Stale water taste: wash the bottle and lid, rinse well, and refill with fresh water.
- Metallic taste: rinse the lid and gasket first, since these often cause the taste. If it persists on a new bottle, wash everything before first use, which Owala advises, and contact Owala.
How to prevent mold and smell
- Take the lid apart and wash it weekly at minimum.
- Wash after any drink that is not plain water.
- Dry every part before reassembling.
- Do not leave a closed, damp bottle in a bag or car for days.
- Store the bottle with the lid off or slightly open.
See How to clean an Owala for the full routine.
FAQ
Is mold in my Owala dangerous?
Mold in a drinking bottle is unpleasant and worth cleaning immediately. If someone has a mold allergy, is immunocompromised or feels unwell, ask a doctor.
Can I use bleach on an Owala?
No. Owala advises against harsh chemicals; use soapy water and distilled white vinegar.
Does the dishwasher kill mold?
It helps clean the lid, but the gasket seals in moisture and needs to come out first. Wash it separately. See Is an Owala dishwasher safe?
How do I know when to replace the gasket?
When it stays stained after cleaning, tears, or no longer seats flat.
Related guides: How to clean an Owala lid and gasket, How to clean an Owala, Why is my Owala leaking?
Sources: Owala: how to clean the Kids’ FreeSip, Owala FAQ, Owala FreeSip usage and care instructions (manual copy)