A well-made hip flask should last for decades; however, like any finely crafted accessory, it performs best when cared for properly. Different materials require different approaches, both inside and out. Whether your flask is pewter, sterling silver, stainless steel, or wrapped in leather, regular maintenance ensures it remains reliable, hygienic, and presentable.
A clean and well-maintained hip flask not only protects your drink; it also protects the flask itself.
Caring for the Outside of Your Hip Flask
Pewter
Pewter is a softer metal; it naturally develops light surface marks over time. These can usually be polished out with a quality pewter polish. If your flask has a satin or matte finish, use a gentle touch to avoid altering the texture. Avoid abrasive cloths or household cleaners; they can create new scratches rather than remove existing ones. You can view our full selection of handmade pewter hip flasks for more examples of this traditional finish.
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is prized for its lustre; however, it is also prone to oxidation. Tarnish is normal and can be removed with a specialist silver polishing cloth or silver cream. For best results, we recommend a trusted silver care product such as the Town Talk Silver Polishing Liquid Spray. Always polish in straight lines rather than circular motions; this helps preserve the smooth finish. Store silver flasks away from moisture to slow future tarnishing. Explore our range of sterling silver hip flasks for styles that age beautifully with proper care.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is the most durable and low-maintenance option. Wipe the exterior with warm water and a soft cloth; for fingerprints or smudges, a mild soap solution is suitable. Avoid steel wool or any abrasive pads; they can scratch the polished surface. Stainless steel flasks travel well and withstand regular use with minimal upkeep. See our collection of stainless steel hip flasks for robust, everyday designs.
Leather-Wrapped Flasks
Leather requires a different approach; it should never be soaked or aggressively cleaned. Use a slightly damp cloth to remove light marks, followed by a leather conditioner to keep the wrap supple. Keep leather away from prolonged moisture and direct heat; both can cause warping, cracking, or adhesive issues around the seams. Discover our range of leather-wrapped hip flasks to see how different finishes wear over time.
Caring for the Inside of Your Hip Flask
The interior needs just as much attention as the exterior; keeping it clean is essential for hygiene and for preserving the flavour of your chosen spirit. For guidance on how long spirits can safely be stored, read our companion article How Long Can You Keep Spirits in a Hip Flask?
How to Clean the Inside
After each use, empty the flask completely and rinse it with warm water. Fill the flask halfway, shake, empty, and repeat until no scent remains. Do not use dish soap unless absolutely necessary; soap residue can cling to the metal and affect the taste of your next drink.
For a deeper clean, a solution of warm water and a small amount of baking soda can help neutralise odours. Rinse thoroughly afterwards. Let the flask air dry with the lid off; airflow prevents moisture from settling inside.
Help - I've put wine or cocktails in my hipflask!
If wine, cocktails, mixers, or any acidic drink has been stored inside the flask, clean it immediately. These liquids react with metal; they can leave lingering flavours and, in some cases, cause surface dulling inside the flask.
Rinse the flask several times with warm water, then use a baking-soda rinse or a mixture of warm water and a teaspoon of vinegar; this helps neutralise both sugar and acidity. Rinse again thoroughly. Allow the flask to dry completely before checking for any remaining aroma. If the scent persists, repeat the process. Most flasks recover fully with prompt cleaning.
How to Store Your Hip Flask
Proper storage ensures your flask stays in excellent condition when not in use. Always store it empty and fully dry; even small amounts of moisture can lead to odour build-up over time. Keep the lid off or only loosely closed to allow air circulation.
Store metal flasks in a cool, dry place; humidity accelerates tarnishing in sterling silver and can encourage moisture inside stainless steel or pewter flasks. Leather-wrapped flasks should be kept away from heat sources and direct sunlight to prevent fading or cracking.
If you are choosing your first flask or looking to expand your collection, browse our curated selection of luxury hip flasks. You may also find our expert guide useful: Best Materials for Hip Flasks: Pewter vs Silver vs Steel vs Leather.
A little care after each use keeps your hip flask ready for the next occasion; looking its best and performing exactly as it should.