That sparkling water pitcher on your counter might look pristine, but it could be harboring a slimy secret if you don’t clean it regularly. Health experts warn that failing to wash your water pitcher and replace its filter can turn it into a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and algae.
Hannah Newman, MPH, director of infection prevention at Lenox Hill Hospital, recommends cleaning your water pitcher at least every one to two weeks—and definitely every time you change the filter. Many filters, like those in Brita pitchers, need replacing every two to six months, depending on usage. But don’t wait until it smells funky. If your pitcher comes into contact with raw meat, chemical cleaners, or sits too long without cleaning, give it an immediate deep scrub.
To clean your pitcher properly:
- Disassemble it completely.
- Wash each part with warm, soapy water.
- Scrub corners with a clean brush or sponge.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Air dry upside down or use a clean towel.
More serious than just gross goo, CDC specialist Katia Martinez explains that a neglected pitcher can develop biofilm—a sticky layer of microorganisms that shields germs from treatment chemicals and allows them to thrive. What looks like harmless slime is a stubborn colony of disease-causing microbes.
Martin Bucknavage from Penn State adds that over time, this build-up can lead to visible grime, strange odors, and potentially unsafe drinking water.
Reminder: Â Treat your water pitcher like any other food container. Make cleaning it a regular part of your kitchen routine. After all, the goal is clean, fresh water, not a moldy science experiment in your fridge.
