How do you clean a thermos with mold in it?

- White vinegar

- Baking soda

- Hydrogen peroxide

- Bottle brush

- Dish soap

- Water

- Funnel (if needed)

- Measuring spoons

- Clean towel

- Toothbrush (optional)

Instructions:

1. Empty the Thermos: Begin by emptying the thermos of any remaining liquid. Rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any loose particles or residue.

2. Add White Vinegar: Pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) of white vinegar into the thermos. White vinegar is an excellent natural disinfectant and will help kill mold spores effectively.

3. Shake and Let Stand: Put the cap back on the thermos and shake it gently for a few seconds to distribute the vinegar. Let the thermos stand with the vinegar solution inside for at least an hour. This allows the vinegar time to work and break down the mold.

4. Scrub the Interior: After an hour, use a bottle brush to scrub the interior of the thermos. Be sure to reach every corner and crevice where mold may be hiding. You can also use a toothbrush for more precise cleaning of tight areas.

5. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the thermos thoroughly with warm water to remove the vinegar and loosened mold. Ensure all vinegar residue is gone, and the thermos smells clean.

6. Add Baking Soda: Pour 1/4 cup (60 ml) of baking soda into the thermos. Baking soda is another effective cleaning agent that can help remove any remaining mold and neutralize odors.

7. Add Hydrogen Peroxide: Add 1/4 cup (60 ml) of hydrogen peroxide to the thermos. This combination of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide creates an effervescent reaction that helps dislodge any remaining mold spores.

8. Let it Fizz: Put the cap back on and let the mixture sit for another hour, allowing the reaction to do its work.

9. Rinse Again: Rinse the thermos thoroughly with warm water to remove all of the baking soda and hydrogen peroxide solution. Make sure no residue is left behind.

10. Wash with Dish Soap: Add a few drops of dish soap to the thermos and fill it with warm water. Use the bottle brush to wash the inside of the thermos, paying attention to any areas where mold may have been present.

11. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the thermos thoroughly with warm water to remove the dish soap. Leave the thermos upside down on a clean towel to allow it to dry completely before storing it.

Tips:

- If the mold growth is extensive or stubborn, you may need to repeat the cleaning process.

- For narrow-necked thermoses, use a funnel to add the cleaning solutions easily.

- Always rinse the thermos thoroughly after each step to remove any residue or cleaning solutions.

- To prevent future mold growth, make sure to dry the thermos thoroughly after each use and avoid leaving liquid inside for extended periods.