To clean your Brita water dispenser effectively, simply remove the filter and hand-wash the lid and reservoir with a mild soap and warm water, ensuring you never use abrasive detergents or a dishwasher.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Brita Dispenser
Regular cleaning of your Brita water dispenser is crucial for maintaining water purity and the longevity of the unit. It's a straightforward process that helps prevent the buildup of residue and ensures your water always tastes fresh.
What You'll Need
Gathering a few basic items will make the cleaning process quick and easy:
- Mild dish soap
- Soft sponge or non-abrasive cloth
- Warm water
- Clean towel for drying
The Cleaning Process
Follow these simple steps to thoroughly clean your Brita water dispenser:
- Empty the Dispenser: Pour out any remaining water from the reservoir.
- Remove the Filter: Carefully take out the Brita filter from its housing. If it's time to replace the filter (typically every 40 gallons or approximately two months), you can discard it now.
- Disassemble Components: Separate the lid, the water reservoir, and the filter tray (if your model has a separate one).
- Hand-Wash Components: Using mild dish soap and warm water, gently hand-wash the lid, reservoir, and filter tray. Pay attention to any areas with visible residue. It's crucial to use only mild soap and avoid abrasive detergents or scrubbers.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse all components under running warm water until all soap residue is completely gone. Any leftover soap can affect the taste of your water.
- Dry All Parts: Allow the components to air dry completely or dry them thoroughly with a clean, soft towel. Ensuring they are dry helps prevent water spots and potential mildew growth.
- Reassemble: Once dry, put the dispenser components back together.
- Insert Filter: Insert a new Brita filter (if you discarded the old one) or reinsert your existing filter if it's still good. Remember to follow the filter's specific priming instructions if it's new.
Important Cleaning Tips and Warnings
To ensure the best results and maintain your Brita dispenser's integrity, keep the following in mind:
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Never use abrasive detergents, scouring pads, or harsh chemical cleaners, as these can damage the plastic and leave behind harmful residues.
- No Dishwasher: Never put any part of your Brita water dispenser in a dishwasher. High heat and harsh detergents used in dishwashers can warp the plastic, damage components, and potentially leach chemicals. Always hand-wash.
- Regular Cleaning: Aim to clean your Brita dispenser at least every one to two weeks, or more frequently if you notice any buildup or changes in water taste.
- Filter Replacement: Adhere to the recommended filter replacement schedule to ensure optimal water filtration and taste. You can find more specific guidelines on the official Brita support page.
Cleaning Frequency at a Glance
For ongoing maintenance, here's a general guide for how often to clean different parts of your Brita dispenser:
| Component | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|
| Reservoir & Lid | Weekly to Bi-weekly |
| Filter Tray | Weekly to Bi-weekly |
| Filter | Every 40 gallons or 2 months (as recommended by Brita) |
By following these simple steps, you can keep your Brita water dispenser clean and ensure you always have access to great-tasting, filtered water.
