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Yuck! Camelback taste
By mike | June 27, 2007
It’s super hot and humid round my parts so, to be smart, I took a Camelback of water with me on my 16-miler this morning.
But man, that water tastes bad. That rubbery taste from the bladder almost gagged me. I’ve cleaned it, brushed it and used those solvents to get rid of the taste but it’s always there.
Is that just life with a Camelback? Or do any of you have some secrets?
Topics: Bicycle gear |

June 27th, 2007 at 4:39 pm
Sadly, I think that’s just part of being Camelbak.
What I’ve had recommended to me (and it helps) is throw some Gatorade or some other powdered beverage in there. Doesn’t need to be a real heavy amount, just enough to add some taste.
I just got a new bladder and haven’t cleaned it out yet. Will be interesting to see how bad it is..
June 27th, 2007 at 6:42 pm
I add 4-5 drops of bleach to the bladder then fill with warm water and then wash it well with that ’solution.’ I also run that through the hose and bite valve. After rinsing it completely, I hang to dry. It doesn’t remove all of that ‘rubber taste,’ but it might help make it tolerable. Works for me.