How to Clean a Water Filter Pitcher or Dispenser
Remove the filter
Pull off the pitcher’s lid, tug and twist the filter out of its hole, and set it aside.
Dismantle the pitcher

The upper tank sits inside the pitcher body. Separate the two by gently tugging the upper tank until it comes loose.
Wash the parts

Drench your rag or sponge, put a little soap on it, and scrub the inside and outside of the pitcher, upper tank, and lid. If your pitcher has an electronic display, use a damp rag to wipe the upper lid clean; you don’t want to flood the electronics. If the pitcher has nooks and crannies anywhere, use a plastic brush or a toothbrush to clean them. If you have a dispenser, scrub out the spigot, too.
Rinse and reassemble

Rinse everything thoroughly and reassemble. If you own a dispenser, let a bit of clean water drain through the spigot to eliminate any soap that may have crept inside.
Don’t forget to reinstall the filter. If it’s been a while, now is a convenient time to pop in a new one.
This article was edited by Jen Gushue.