Cleaning pill bottles might seem simple, but doing it wrong can leave behind sticky residue, hidden bacteria, or label glue—especially if you’re reusing or repurposing for personal care or small-batch products.
The proper way to clean a pill bottle is to remove labels and cotton, wash thoroughly with soap and hot water, rinse, sanitize with alcohol, and allow to air dry completely.
Whether you’re prepping packaging for new use or just keeping your storage clean, here’s how to do it right.
What is the best way to clean the inside of a bottle?
Pill bottles often have narrow openings and internal ridges that can trap debris or residue—especially from powders or tablets.
To clean the inside, fill with warm soapy water, shake vigorously, scrub with a small bottle brush if needed, and rinse with clean water.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Method
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove label, lid, and cotton (if present) |
| 2 | Fill with warm water + dish soap |
| 3 | Shake or use a narrow brush to clean inside |
| 4 | Rinse with hot water |
| 5 | Optional: Sanitize with rubbing alcohol |
| 6 | Air dry upside down on a clean towel |
PauPack supports clients in the pharma and wellness industries by offering pill bottles made from food-grade plastics or UV-protected amber glass—ideal for reuse and repurposing.
How to remove sticky residue from pill bottles?
That leftover glue from labels is stubborn. If you're rebranding or upcycling your pill bottles, it's the first thing that needs to go.
To remove sticky label residue, use rubbing alcohol, cooking oil, or baking soda paste. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrape gently with a cloth or scraper.
Recommended Methods
| Method | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | Isopropyl or ethanol | Works fast on most adhesives |
| Oil | Coconut or olive oil | Soaks and softens glue |
| Baking Soda Paste | Baking soda + water | Gentle and abrasive-free |
Avoid acetone or strong solvents on plastic pill bottles—they may cloud or degrade the material.
What is the best way to clean the inside of old bottles?
Old bottles might look harmless—but they often harbor bacteria, moisture stains, or even mold if stored long-term.
The best way to clean old pill bottles is to soak in warm soapy water, scrub with a small brush, rinse thoroughly, and sanitize with a mild disinfectant or alcohol.
Additional Tips for Old Bottles
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Use vinegar or diluted bleach for musty smells
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Check for internal cracks or warping
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For glass bottles, you can also boil (if label-free)
At PauPack, we provide amber pill bottles with UV protection and smooth interiors to prevent stain buildup over time—ideal for brands looking for both function and hygiene.
Should I remove the cotton from pill bottles?
Absolutely. That fluffy cotton isn’t for long-term use—it’s there only during shipping to keep pills from rattling or breaking.
Yes, always remove cotton from pill bottles before cleaning or reusing. Leaving it inside can trap moisture and lead to mold or odor.
Why It Matters
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Cotton absorbs moisture—especially after washing
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It can hide dirt or contamination
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It’s not reusable once wet
If you're sourcing pill bottles for supplements or herbal blends, PauPack offers cotton-free packaging options with tamper-evident caps and moisture control inserts—better for both hygiene and shelf life.
Conclusion
The proper way to clean a pill bottle includes label removal, internal washing, full rinsing, and sanitizing. Clean bottles aren't just safer—they're more brandable, reusable, and customer-friendly.
