Owala says the stainless lid is top rack dishwasher safe and the straw can go in the silverware bin. The stainless cup is technically dishwasher safe, but Owala strongly recommends hand washing it. Never microwave it.
The FreeSip comes in two materials and the rules differ. The stainless steel version has a steel body that protects the finish best when washed by hand, and its lid and straw handle the dishwasher. The Tritan plastic version is top rack safe in every part. The microwave is a hard no for the steel one, and Owala strongly discourages it for the plastic one too.
| Stainless lid | Top rack |
|---|---|
| Straw | Silverware bin |
| Stainless cup | Technically dishwasher safe, but hand washing is strongly recommended |
| Tritan plastic | All parts top rack |
| Microwave | No. Never for stainless, and strongly discouraged for Tritan |
How to wash an Owala
- Take the lid apart and pull out the straw.
- Put the lid on the top rack and the straw in the silverware bin.
- Wash the cup by hand with warm soapy water and a bottle brush, which keeps the finish looking new.
- Avoid bleach and abrasive cleaners.
- Let every part dry fully before putting it back together.
What happens when you get it wrong
- Worn finish. Repeated dishwasher cycles are what Owala is steering you away from for the stainless cup.
- Sparks. A stainless steel body in a microwave arcs and can damage the oven.
- A popped lid. Owala warns that a sealed lid on the plastic bottle can trap pressure when heated, so the lid pops open and sprays hot liquid.
Pour the drink into a ceramic mug to warm it, then pour it back.
A bottle brush and warm soapy water, which cleans the spout and the straw better than a cycle does.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Owala FreeSip dishwasher safe?
Partly. Owala says the lid is top rack safe and the straw can go in the silverware bin. The stainless cup is technically safe, but Owala strongly recommends hand washing it. The plastic Tritan versions are top rack safe in every part.
Can you put an Owala in the microwave?
No. Never microwave a stainless steel one. Owala also strongly discourages it for the plastic version because the sealed lid can trap pressure.
Where does the straw go in the dishwasher?
The silverware bin, according to Owala.
Can you freeze an Owala?
Some regional Owala FAQ pages advise against freezing the bottle, so check the guidance for your model.