We’ve also found slider-top reservoirs to be easier to empty, especially HydraPak models with pour shields (as Osprey calls them). This design allows you to remove the contents with precision, which helps when transferring water to a pot or other bottle. Conversely, twist-tops are imprecise and often have places where water can hide, which isn’t helpful when you’re trying to dry the reservoir out completely.

Bite valves are not all created equal, so there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing between hydration reservoirs. The first is whether or not the valve has an on/off mechanism, which is almost a requirement in our opinion. Accidental leaks happen more than you would expect, whether you sit on your valve, place it underneath a heavy object, or have a flaw in the seal. Most of the bladders on our list feature bite-valve shutoffs, but the budget models (particularly the HydraPak Cenote and Platypus Hoser) do not. Adjustable bite valves generally use a twist or switch mechanism (although Gregory currently uses a button); we’ve found switches such as those on the Platypus Big Zip EVO and CamelBak Crux to be the easiest to operate, as twist designs can be difficult to adjust with one hand. Various bite valve styles (from L to R: Osprey Hydraulics, Gregory 3D Hydro, Camelbak Crux) My favorite hydration bladder is the Platypus Big Zip EVO Reservoir because it is durable, reliable, easy to use, easy to clean, and has a fast flow rate. It comes in three sizes, 1.5 liters, 2 liters, and 3 liters, allowing you to choose which will work best for you. There are two main styles of hydration reservoirs—those that feature a top opening that seals with a slider (or in the case of the CamelBak Fusion, a zip), and those with a twist-cap closure (generally on the front, although the Platypus Hoser’s is at the base). Both are time-tested designs, but differ slightly in terms of functionality, especially when it comes to filling, emptying, and cleaning. Most hydration bladders user either slider or twist-cap closures The most important part is not to let your bladder grow mold in the first place. To do that, be sure to store it full of warm water after cleaning and clean it out at least once a week (even if you’re using chlorine bleach – this is just good hygiene). However, I usually give mine a thorough cleaning each month because we take long trips that last several days, and I don’t want to deal with mold near the end of our trip! Final ThoughtsBefore you can begin to clean and wash the bladder you need to make sure there’s no water left inside the container. An all-new comfortable handle allows for true one-handed filling. This easier-to-fill design is also easier to carry and pour.

Hydration bladders are made from durable, BPA-free plastic that is meant to have a long lifespan if cared for properly. This plastic comes in various forms: For example, Platypus products are clear and rigid, while most HydraPak offerings are opaque with a slight bit of stretch. Both styles get the job done; we have both an old Platypus Big Zip and Osprey Hydraulics that are still going strong after six years of use. In fact, the vast majority of durability issues seem to be the result of user error—it’s important to keep your reservoir away from sharp objects like microspikes and trekking poles, and store it in a safe place between uses.A well-designed hydration bladder with a few features that set it apart from other competitors in this field. Osprey says: The CamelBak Crux 2L Reservoir is a great and inexpensive hydration bladder. It comes in three sizes, 1.5 liters, 2 liters, and 3 liters, allowing you to find the perfect size. The hydration bladder has a wide opening that makes it easy to fill up and clean. The bite valve has an on/off lever that is easy to use and helps prevent leaks. One of the best things about the CamelBak Crux 2L Reservoir is the Hydroguard antimicrobial technology that helps prevent bacteria from growing in the hydration bladder and hose. The CamelBak Crux 2L Reservoir is one of the best hydration bladders on the market! Hydration Bladders Features Size and Shape Additionally, while hiking with the HydraPak HydraSleeve in the desert, we loaded it up with ice-cold water. Throughout the day (our hike was six hours), the water stayed icy cold, and ice cubes were still inside after the hike. Temperatures were between 80 - 90F that day. Overall, the HydraPak HydraSleeve offers excellent insulation that'll keep your drinks cool in the summer. Some people strongly prefer drinking cold water, and if that's you, this model does it best. Ease of Care It comes in different sizes and shapes, but the basic idea is the same across models – it’s a bladder that holds water, with a hose extending from one side.

If you leave it upside down for around 10-15 minutes that should be enough to get most of the leftover moisture out. 2. Rinse out with Hot Water

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Bleach – Bleach is great for cleaning more items, but it should be avoided for all Osprey products. Boiling Water – This could damage the container, and possibly ruin it completely. If it does become damaged because of the water you won’t be able to return the product.