How to Clean the SmoothSip® Slider Coffee Mug

Your morning coffee deserves nothing less than perfection—and with the Owala SmoothSip Slider Coffee Mug, you get just that. Its innovative design keeps coffee nice and hot while you sip without spills. But to keep it performing at its best (and free of nasty odors or buildup), a regular cleaning routine is essential.

Whether you’re a daily coffee drinker or just need an afternoon pick-me-up, keeping your SmoothSip® Slider coffee mug in pristine condition definitely pays off—and keeps every sip as fresh as the first. 

Why Cleaning Your SmoothSip Coffee Mug Matters

We get it—life is crazy busy, and cleaning your coffee mug? Definitely not anyone’s idea of a good time—unless you’re a clean freak, and for that, we love you. But a little maintenance makes all the difference. No, really. Regularly cleaning your SmoothSip helps prevent stains, keeps your coffee tasting great (and not like yesterday’s brew), and reduces the risk of bacteria buildup from leftover coffee oils and residues.

Plus, with its unique slider lid design, it’s especially important to clean all the nooks and crannies to keep it sliding smoothly. Let’s dive into the cleaning process, shall we?

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide for the SmoothSip® Slider Coffee Mug

For the best results, you’ll want to follow these steps to a 'T'.

Take it All Apart:

• Unscrew the lid and set the base aside.
• Push the slider up and pop it off (don’t worry, a little force is normal).
• Rotate the seal 90 degrees until the attached plastic piece pops out.
• Carefully remove the rubber seal around the lid.

Scrub Every Piece:

• Wash the stainless steel base, lid, slider, seal, and plastic pieces with hot, soapy water.
• Use a soft brush or sponge to clean hard-to-reach areas.
• Thoroughly rinse all parts to ensure no soap residue is left behind. You don’t want to taste that later. 

Dishwasher Option:

• If you’re short on time, some parts can safely go in the dishwasher:
• Place the rubber seal, slider, and small plastic pieces in the utensil basket.
• Put the lid on the top rack of your dishwasher.
• Note: We recommend hand washing the stainless steel base to keep it bright as ever and free from harm. We want it to look new forever, right?

Reassemble and Enjoy:

• After all parts are completely dry, put the pieces back together.
• Your SmoothSip® Slider Coffee Mug is now clean, fresh, and ready to keep your coffee warm and delicious.

Stains and Odors? No Biggie.

Love a bold brew or flavored coffee? Same. But that means your mug might hold onto stains and smells. Here are some natural cleaning solutions that’ll get rid of them in no time (okay, maybe a little time). 

Baking Soda Scrub

• What You Need: Baking soda and water.
• How to Use: Make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the inside of the mug, and scrub with a bottle brush. This gentle scrub will lift stains without scratching the stainless steel.

Vinegar Rinse

• What You Need: Distilled white vinegar.
• How to Use: Fill the mug halfway with vinegar, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. This helps eliminate stubborn odors.

What Not to Do (Seriously, Don’t)

To keep your SmoothSip® Coffee Mug in top shape, here’s what not to do:

• Don’t Use Metal Brushes: They can scratch the stainless steel and scratches not only ruin the finish, but are also hangout spots for bacteria. Stick to soft brushes or non-abrasive sponges.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Bleach? Hard pass. It and other strong chemicals can corrode parts of your mug and leave behind harmful residues.
• Never Microwave or Freeze: The SmoothSip is absolutely, definitely, most certainly not microwave-safe, and freezing can damage the mug's structure. Stick to room temperature or cold storage. 

Get a Cleaning Routine

Make cleaning a habit, not a hassle. A quick wash with warm soapy water after you use your SmoothSip prevents residue buildup. Once a week, do a deeper clean by taking apart the lid and using natural cleaners like baking soda or vinegar. Your taste buds (and mug) will thank you.

Get Yourself a SmoothSip® Slider Coffee Mug from Owala!

Looking for a coffee mug that’s as stylish as it is functional? (Though it might just be the tiniest bit more stylish—you be the judge.) The SmoothSip Slider Coffee Mug is the ultimate mug for keeping your coffee hot, spill-free, and easy to sip on the go. Our customers even argue that it changes lives and we’re not about to disagree with them. With its sleek design and innovative slider lid, it’s the BFF you’ve been missing for busy mornings, office commutes, or cozy days at home.

Discover the full lineup of Owala products and upgrade your coffee game today.