How to Clean and Maintain Kilner® Clip Top Bottles

By Kilner® - Iconic Glass Jars, Bottles & Equipment | Kilner® | Published: 2026-10-26

Category: Tips & Care

Learn how to properly clean and maintain your Kilner® clip top bottles to keep them sparkling and extend their life. Simple steps for daily use and deep cleaning.

Quick answer

Rinse your Kilner® clip top bottle immediately after use, then wash it by hand with warm soapy water and a bottle brush. Pay special attention to the rubber seal and wire mechanism, and dry everything thoroughly before storing.

Why regular maintenance matters

A clean bottle prevents mold and stale odors from building up inside the glass and in the rubber seal. The wire clip mechanism can stiffen or rust if food residue or moisture is left to sit, so a quick rinse after each use is the best habit you can form.

What you'll need

You don't need special equipment — just warm water, mild dish soap, a bottle brush (flexible or angled works best), and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could scratch the glass or damage the seal.

Step-by-step cleaning guide

1. Rinse immediately after use: Pour out any remaining liquid and rinse the bottle with warm water. This prevents residue from drying and sticking to the glass. Common mistake: letting the bottle sit dirty overnight makes cleaning harder and can leave odors.
2. Wash with warm soapy water: Add a drop of mild dish soap, fill the bottle halfway with warm water, and use a bottle brush to scrub the interior, especially the bottom corners. Wash the outside with a soft sponge. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals — they can degrade the rubber seal over time.
3. Clean the rubber seal and wire mechanism: Remove the rubber seal from the lid (it pulls off gently) and wash it separately in soapy water. Wipe the wire clip with a damp cloth to remove any sticky residue. Checkpoint: ensure the seal is completely dry before reattaching to prevent mold growth.
4. Rinse and dry thoroughly: Rinse the bottle and seal with clean water. Air-dry the bottle upside down on a drying rack, and pat the seal and wire clip dry with a soft cloth. Never store the bottle with the clip closed while wet — moisture trapped under the seal can cause mildew.
5. Store with the clip open: Once completely dry, store the bottle with the clip in the open position. This relieves pressure on the rubber seal and helps it maintain its shape. Common mistake: storing with the clip closed can flatten the seal permanently, reducing its ability to create an airtight closure.

Our recommended bottle for everyday use

Kilner® New 1 Litre Clip Top Bottle: The Kilner® New 1 Litre Clip Top Bottle is designed for preserving healthy, homemade drinks and sauces with traditional yet modern styling. Its wide mouth and clip top make it easy to clean thoroughly, and the 1 litre size is ideal for daily beverages like infused water or iced tea.
Kilner® New 1 Litre Clip Top Bottle