Empty any old liquor first, then work through a simple soap-and-water clean. It suits most flasks, and a new top man hip flask deserves one wash before its first fill.
How-to
How to Clean a Hip Flask
How to clean a hip flask: a soap-and-water wash, odor fixes, exterior care and the rinsing habits that keep drinks tasting like they should.
If a good drink suddenly tastes tinny or stale from the flask, the brew is rarely the problem. Residue and old liquor cling to the inside of a narrow vessel, and a short, regular wash is usually enough to bring the flavor back.
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Five steps for a basic wash
- Pour out whatever is left and make sure the flask is empty.
- Fill it about three-quarters with water and add two or three drops of dish soap.
- Cap it tightly and shake for 20 to 30 seconds.
- For stubborn film, pour a little out and work a soft-bristled bottle brush inside.
- Rinse with warm water, then leave it uncapped to dry completely overnight; a twisted paper towel left inside can soak up leftover moisture.
Getting rid of lingering smells and aftertaste
A flask that still tastes off after washing needs another pass. Skip chlorine bleach, which can damage the metal.
- Repeat the soap wash and shake for the full 20 to 30 seconds.
- Rinse thoroughly so no cleaner taste carries over.
- Rinse strongly scented spirits such as vodka out right away, or the smell stays.
- Follow the maker's instructions before trying any acid such as vinegar or lemon juice.
Cleaning the outside
Avoid abrasive cleaners and brushes, which can scratch the finish, and keep a leather sleeve out of running water.
For leather-wrapped models, see the best man hip flask.
Habits that stop the problem coming back
The easiest clean is the one you rarely need. Avoid letting alcohol sit in the flask for more than a day or two; if a full wash is not possible, at least rinse with clean water to make the next wash easier. Acidic drinks such as cordials and fruit juices are best kept out of a flask altogether.