How to Clean and Maintain Your Klean Kanteen Tumbler

Quick answer

Hand wash your Klean Kanteen tumbler with warm soapy water after each use, and periodically deep-clean the lid and interior to prevent odors and stains. Avoid the dishwasher and abrasive tools to protect the finish and insulation.

Step-by-step cleaning and maintenance routine

1. Rinse immediately after use: Empty the tumbler and rinse with warm water to prevent residue from drying on the stainless steel. For coffee, tea, or wine, a quick rinse stops staining and lingering smells. Don't let the tumbler sit empty for hours before rinsing; dried residue is harder to remove.
2. Hand wash with mild soap and a soft sponge: Use a drop of dish soap and warm water. Clean the interior, exterior, and the Slide Lid or open rim with a non-abrasive sponge or bottle brush. Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, or bleach-based cleaners. Abrasive tools scratch the stainless steel surface, creating crevices where bacteria can hide.
3. Clean the Slide Lid mechanism weekly: Pop the Slide Lid open and rinse the sliding piece under running water. Use a small brush (like a straw brush) to dislodge any buildup in the track. For the 10oz Cup with a sippy or straw cap, disassemble the cap parts and wash each separately. If the slide feels sticky or slow, there is trapped residue; soak the lid in warm soapy water for 10 minutes before scrubbing.
4. Deep-clean odors and stains monthly: Fill the tumbler with a mixture of 1 tablespoon baking soda and warm water, let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub and rinse. For stubborn coffee or tea stains, use a dedicated stainless steel cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water. Never use bleach or chlorine-based products; they can damage the stainless steel and leave a chemical taste.
5. Dry completely before storing: After washing, invert the tumbler on a dish rack to air dry. Remove the lid and dry it separately. For the 10oz Cup, ensure each cup is fully dry before stacking to prevent moisture and mold between nested cups. Storing a damp tumbler with the lid on can trap moisture and cause mildew inside the lid mechanism.
6. Inspect the lid gasket and seal regularly: Check the silicone gasket on the Slide Lid for cracks, warping, or debris. If the seal is damaged, the lid may leak or not fit snugly. Replacement lids are available from Klean Kanteen. A worn gasket is the most common cause of tumbler leaks; replace it as soon as you notice any looseness.

Products mentioned in this guide

• 8oz Rise Lowball Tumbler: Crafted from certified 90% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel with Climate Lock™ insulation and a splash-proof Slide Lid. The recycled steel is durable and easy to clean, but the Slide Lid needs careful hand washing to keep the mechanism smooth and odor-free.

  

• 10oz Cup - 4 Pack: The 10oz Cup stacks and nests, and is very lightweight and durable. It works with sippy and straw cap accessories. Because it nests with other cups, make sure each cup is fully dry before stacking to prevent moisture buildup between cups.

  

• 16oz Rise Tumbler: Built from recycled stainless steel and insulated with Climate Lock™ technology, it keeps your drink hot or cold. The insulation is effective only if the vacuum seal remains intact, so avoid dropping or knocking the tumbler and never put it in the dishwasher.