How to Properly Sanitize Your Reusable Bottles

At Wonderfill Refillery, reusing containers is at the heart of everything we do. Every bottle you refill helps conserve energy and resources, reduces demand for new packaging, and keeps waste out of the landfill. If you're working toward a lower-waste lifestyle, chances are you already have bottles piling up at home that are perfect for reuse. Here's how to prep them safely and properly.

Why Sanitation Matters

Most companies avoid offering refills because of the risk of contamination. At Wonderfill, we use plant-based ingredients with naturally derived preservatives. These do a great job protecting against mold, yeast, and fungus, but only if your bottles are clean and completely dry.

Sanitizing your containers ensures product safety and shelf life, especially for sensitive items like lotions, oils, and face care. Even when using the same product, we recommend giving your bottles a full reset at least once a year to prevent buildup.

Best Bottles to Reuse: Glass and #5 Plastic

While we support reusing all clean containers, glass and #5 plastic (polypropylene) are the safest and easiest to sanitize.

• Glass is non-porous, dishwasher-safe, and ideal for preserving freshness.
• #5 plastic is durable and heat-resistant, which makes it a good fit for soaps and cleaning products.

Other types of plastic may be more difficult to clean thoroughly and can retain residue or bacteria.

Step-by-Step Sanitizing Guide

Follow these steps to prep your containers before refilling in-store:

1. Remove All Residue

Wash your bottle thoroughly with hot water and soap. Scrub out any leftover product. If your container is dishwasher-safe, that's an easy option for a deep clean.

2. Sanitize Glass Containers

Place clean glass containers in boiling water for 5 minutes. This method is especially important for skincare, serums, or anything that touches your face.

3. Sanitize Plastic Containers

Do a final rinse using 120-proof alcohol or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. This helps remove any remaining water and reduces bacteria. Avoid boiling plastic, as it can warp or degrade causing micro-plastics to leach into your products.

4. Dry Completely

Moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Always allow your bottles and caps to air dry fully before refilling.

Don’t Forget the Pumps and Tops

Pumps, sprays, and caps need a little extra attention:

• Wash thoroughly with hot soapy water.
• Pump hot water through until it runs clear.
• Follow by pumping alcohol or hand sanitizer through the mechanism at least 10 times to clean the internal parts.

Make sure all components are fully dry before reuse.