Learning how to clean a YETI cooler is simple. All you need is a sponge, water, and soap to remove most dirt and grime. For tougher stains, use a 7:1 ratio of bleach to water to cut through leftover residue. Follow up with a pressure washer to restore a YETI to like new condition.
YETI has taken the outdoor industry by storm by providing some of the highest quality coolers and food-storage solutions in the game.
The YETI cooler, known for being able to hold ice for 3-5 days, comes in many varying sizes and models, but one thing holds true…they all get dirty!
Almost all YETI coolers are made out of durable plastic that will last a lifetime! This plastic isn’t perfect though: it can easily trap dirt, become stained, and even scratch somewhat easily.
In this guide, we will discuss several techniques on how to clean a YETI cooler, how to make a white YETI cooler white again, and touch on frequently asked YETI cooler questions.
How To Clean A YETI Cooler
1: Use Warm Water & Soap
If your cooler is not very dirty and only needs a quick cleaning, use warm soapy water to cut through the grime.
Start by pouring a quarter cup of soap into the bottom of the cooler. One of the easiest easy to fill it with warm water is to use a hose that has been laying out in the sun for a few hours.
Once the YETI is full, use a scrubbing sponge to rub the entire cooler down. If the grime is not coming off easily, you may need a more serious cleaning solution as we will discuss below.
If the YETI is sufficiently clean, dump out the soapy water, rinse the cooler, and leave it out to dry!
2: Soak with Bleach, at a 7:1 Ratio
Is there a stinky smell lingering in your YETI even after washing it with soap and water? If so, it’s time to bust out the bleach. Make sure to wear gloves during this step.
Mix a 7:1 ratio of bleach to water in a 5-gallon bucket. Doing this in a bucket before dumping it into the cooler will allow you to make sure the bleach solution isn’t too strong. An overly strong bleach solution will linger in the cooler, so make sure it is heavily watered down before pouring it into the cooler.
Once the bleach solution is poured into the YETI, use a scrub brush with a long handle to clean the cooler. The handle on the scrub brush will ensure your skin is not exposed to bleach.
If there are areas with heavy stains on your YETI, apply the bleach solution and scrub in circular motions until the stain is removed.
Once the YETI is cleaned, dump out the bleach solution, rinse the cooler, and leave it out to dry.
3: Use Vinegar and Baking Soda
Some people prefer not to clean their YETI coolers with detergents or heavy chemicals like bleach. Using vinegar and baking soda is a great alternative to avoid both of those cleaning agents.
Combine 1 cup of Vinegar and 1 cup of baking soda together. Apply the mixture to a scrubbing sponge, and scrub the exterior and interior of the cooler.
Vinegar is a very thorough, natural cleaning agent that is able to remove tough stains on many items, including YETI coolers. If there is a stain on your cooler, apply the solution, let it sit, and then scrub in circular motions to remove it.
Once your YETI has been fully cleaned, rinse it with water and leave it out to dry.
4: Use a Magic Eraser
Looking to restore your white yeti cooler back to its original glory? Try using magic erasers.
Magic erasers work extremely well on all YETI cooler colors as removing stains that the soap, vinegar, and bleach couldn’t get it.
Simply run the magic eraser over the stained areas of your YETI and watch the dirt come right off of the plastic.
This will not help with the overall smell of the cooler but it certainly transforms its appearance.
5: Use a Pressure Washer
If you are looking for the quickest way to clean your YETI cooler, look no further.
Use a power washer to quickly blast away any dirt and grime present in and on the cooler. Powerwashers can even remove heavy stains.
Be careful to keep at least 1 foot between the cooler and the pressure washer wand to avoid damaging the cooler.
This technique works especially well if your cooler has already been deep cleaned using one of the methods above and simply needs a little touch-up.
YETI Cooler FAQ & Solutions
How To Replace YETI Cooler Latches:
If you use your YETI cooler often then there is a chance the latches have gone bad. Luckily, YETI provides replacement latches that are easy to install.
How To Fix Yeti Cooler Zipper:
In recent years YETI has launched its bag cooler line, featuring bag coolers in many shapes and sizes that are often sealed by a zipper. If the zipper on your YETI has gone bad, you can learn how to fix it here.
Can You Repaint A YETI Cooler?
Not satisfied with your cooler’s color? Repaint it! Repainting a YETI cooler is certainly doable. All you need to do is fill in any dings and dents with spackle, sand the cooler down, and then paint it with the paint of your choosing.
Can You Clean A YETI Cooler With Bleach?
Yes, using bleach on all YETI products will work and is safe. Make sure the bleach is heavily diluted and thoroughly rinsed after use.
How Do You Get The Smell Out Of A YETI Rambler?
The best and quickest way to clean a YETI rambler is to fill it with hot water, add a few drops of detergent, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Once it has sat, rinse it out and thoroughly dry it.
Does YETI Have A Lifetime Warranty?
YETI does offer a lifetime warranty on all of its products, which is very nice as most YETI products are expensive. If you have a problem with your YETI product, call their customer service team.