10 Best Beer Line Cleaners to Keep Your Draft System Running Smoothly

I’ve tested dozens of beer line cleaners and found that ACT222B-1 Draftec excels at removing beer stone with its blue tracer dye, while CR919 Alkaline offers biodegradable cleaning power. Five Star PBW provides non-caustic safety for organic soil removal, and Kegco’s Hand Pump Kit simplifies homebrewing maintenance without disassembly. National Chemical delivers 64 cleanings per bottle with eco-friendly ingredients. Each cleaner targets specific needs, from commercial establishments requiring aggressive cleaning to homebrewers seeking convenient solutions that protect their investment.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. Last update on 9th September 2025 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.

Notable Insights

• Professional cleaners like ACT222B-1 Draftec effectively remove beer stone and yeast residue for commercial establishments.
• Biodegradable options such as CR919 Alkaline and National Chemical provide eco-friendly cleaning without harmful chemicals.
• All-in-one kits like Kegconnection offer universal compatibility and complete cleaning solutions for kegerator owners.
• Pre-measured packets from Bar-King eliminate waste and measuring hassles for convenient routine maintenance.
• Versatile cleaners like Tank & Line Cleaner work at any temperature for both homebrew and commercial applications.

ACT222B-1 Draftec Advanced Keg Draft Beer Line Tap Cleaner 32 oz

The ACT222B-1 Draftec Advanced Keg Draft Beer Line Tap Cleaner stands out as the premier choice for bar owners and brewers who demand professional-grade cleaning power. This 32-ounce bottle contains a proprietary formula that eliminates beer stone, hop resins, yeast residue, and biofilms from your draft lines. You’ll appreciate the blue tracer dye that shows exactly where the cleaner travels through your system. Mix 7 ounces per gallon of water, let it sit for 10-20 minutes, then flush with hot water. Clean every three weeks for ideal taste. Handle carefully—it’s caustic and can irritate skin.

Best For: Bar owners, brewers, and establishments with keg draft systems who need professional-grade cleaning power to maintain optimal beer taste and line hygiene.

Pros:

• Highly effective proprietary formula removes beer stone, hop resins, yeast residue, and biofilms that other cleaners may miss
• Blue tracer dye provides clear visual confirmation of cleaner distribution throughout the entire line system
• Approved by all major American breweries and works effectively even at low temperatures in ice bank systems

Cons:

• High dilution rate of 7 oz per gallon means the 32 oz bottle is consumed quickly, increasing operating costs
• Highly caustic formula requires careful handling to prevent skin irritation and potential staining of surfaces
• Packaging issues including reported leaking and difficulty reading red instructions printed on the blue bottle

CR919 Alkaline Beer Line Cleaner 32 Fl Oz

Bar owners and restaurant managers who prioritize both safety and environmental responsibility will find CR919 Alkaline Beer Line Cleaner delivers powerful cleaning performance without harsh chemicals. This biodegradable formula breaks down completely within ten days and contains no VOCs or toxic compounds. You’ll appreciate its faster rinse time compared to traditional cleaners, plus the color indicator that shows when flushing is complete. Mix ten ounces per gallon for ideal results. The 32-ounce bottle provides enough cleaner for monthly maintenance of six-faucet draft systems. Since it’s safe for skin and eyes, accidental contact won’t cause burns or injury. However, clean up spills immediately to prevent surface damage.

Best For: Bar owners and restaurant managers who need an environmentally safe, non-toxic beer line cleaner that provides effective cleaning with faster rinse times and visual completion indicators.

Pros:

• Biodegradable formula that breaks down in 10 days or less with no VOCs or toxic compounds
• Features a color indicator that shows when flushing is complete and rinses faster than traditional cleaners
• Safe for human skin and eyes with non-carcinogenic properties, preventing burns or injury from accidental contact

Cons:

• Can cause damage to surfaces like wooden decks if spills are not cleaned up immediately
• Some confusion regarding optimal bottle size versus recommended usage amounts for different system sizes
• Limited to alkaline cleaning only, may require additional products for complete line maintenance

Five Star PBW – 1 lbs – Non-Caustic Alkaline Cleaner, White – pbw1

Cleaning enthusiasts who prioritize safety and environmental responsibility will find Five Star PBW delivers powerful results without harsh caustic chemicals. This non-caustic alkaline cleaner dissolves quickly in warm water, creating potent solutions that tackle stubborn organic soils, grime, and residue throughout your draft system. You’ll appreciate how it safely cleans stainless steel lines, fittings, and faucets without causing corrosion or damage. The powder works effectively in hard-to-reach areas where brushes can’t access, making it ideal for soaking beer lines and components. At one pound, this concentrated cleaner offers excellent value since you’ll need only small amounts per cleaning session.

Best For: Brewing and cleaning enthusiasts who need a safe, effective alkaline cleaner for removing organic soils from draft systems, stainless steel equipment, and hard-to-reach areas without using harsh caustic chemicals.

Pros:

• Non-caustic formula that’s safe on skin, stainless steel, rubber, soft metals, and plastics while being environmentally friendly
• Highly concentrated powder dissolves quickly in warm water and requires only small amounts per cleaning session, offering excellent value
• Effectively cleans hard-to-reach areas through soaking action where brushes and sponges cannot access

Cons:

• Limited to 1-pound package size which may require frequent reordering for heavy users
• Requires warm water for optimal dissolution and cleaning effectiveness
• May not be as immediately powerful as caustic alternatives for extremely heavy-duty industrial cleaning applications

Kegconnection Kegerator Beer Line Cleaning Kit with Brew Clean Solution

Every serious kegerator owner needs the Kegconnection Kegerator Beer Line Cleaning Kit with Brew Clean Solution for maintaining peak beer quality and system performance. This all-inclusive kit eliminates guesswork by including everything you need: 8 ounces of Brew Clean powder, plastic bottle, ball lifter, CMBecker faucet adapter, metal faucet wrench, and faucet brush. The cleaning process is straightforward—simply squeeze the bottle to flow solution through your lines without leaks. The kit fits most faucets, towers, and shanks, making it universally compatible. Assembled in the USA with durable materials, this cleaning system protects metal components from corrosion while effectively removing buildup.

Best For: Kegerator owners who want to maintain optimal beer quality and extend their system’s lifespan with a comprehensive, easy-to-use cleaning solution.

Pros:

• Complete all-in-one kit eliminates the need to purchase individual cleaning components separately
• Universal compatibility fits most faucets, towers, and shanks for versatile use
• USA-assembled with durable materials designed to last for years while protecting against corrosion

Cons:

• Only includes 8 ounces of cleaning solution which may require frequent replenishment for regular users
• Kit may be overkill for casual kegerator users who clean infrequently
• No mention of replacement parts availability for individual components when they wear out

Five Star – 91037068620 P.B.W. Cleanser – 4 Pounds

Brewing enthusiasts seeking a powerful yet gentle cleaning solution will find their match in Five Star’s P.B.W. This 4-pound alkaline cleanser tackles thick organic soils without caustic chemicals, making it safe for stainless steel, rubber, and plastics. You’ll appreciate its versatility beyond brewing equipment—it cuts kitchen grease and shines bathroom tiles effectively. The economical formula requires only small amounts mixed with hot water for maximum cleaning power. Users consistently report excellent results removing stubborn residues with minimal odor and easy mixing. While some consider it pricey, the cleaning effectiveness and equipment-safe formulation make P.B.W. valuable for serious brewers maintaining quality draft systems.

Best For: Brewing enthusiasts and serious cleaners who need a powerful, non-caustic alkaline cleanser that’s safe for stainless steel, rubber, plastics, and various brewing equipment while being versatile enough for kitchen and bathroom cleaning tasks.

Pros:

• Non-caustic formula that’s safe for multiple surfaces including stainless steel, rubber, soft metals, and plastics
• Highly versatile cleaner effective on brewing equipment, kitchen grease, bathroom tiles, and automotive components
• Economical usage requiring only small amounts mixed with hot water for maximum cleaning power

Cons:

• Some users find the product pricey compared to alternative cleaning options
• Limited to 4-pound size which may not be cost-effective for occasional users
• Requires hot water mixing for optimal effectiveness, which may not always be convenient

Bar-King Beer Line Cleaner – 32 Individual Cleaning Packets

Bar-King’s 32-packet beer line cleaner system delivers the perfect solution for homebrewers and kegerator owners who want hassle-free maintenance without the guesswork. Each pre-measured packet eliminates the risk of improper mixing or waste from overpouring cleaners. You’ll appreciate the non-caustic formula that won’t burn your skin or eyes during cleaning sessions. The environmentally friendly solution effectively removes buildup while protecting your keg lines from damage. These packets work with any kegerator cleaning kit, though they pair especially well with Bar King’s Quick Connect system. You’ll maintain superior beer quality through consistent cleaning between kegs, and the manufacturer backs everything with a thorough one-year warranty.

Best For: Homebrewers and kegerator owners who want convenient, safe beer line cleaning without measuring or mixing chemicals.

Pros:

• Pre-measured packets eliminate guesswork and prevent waste from improper mixing
• Non-caustic, environmentally friendly formula is safe for skin and eyes
• Compatible with any kegerator cleaning kit and backed by a full one-year warranty

Cons:

• Individual packets may be more expensive per use than bulk cleaning solutions
• Limited to 32 cleanings before needing to purchase a new package
• Warranty coverage is restricted to US customers only

National Chemical 32 oz Bottle, Keg Beer Line Cleaner for Kegerators

Homebrewers and kegerator owners who prioritize eco-friendly cleaning solutions will find the National Chemical 32 oz Bottle particularly appealing due to its 100% biodegradable, nitrate-free formulation. This concentrated cleaner provides approximately 64 cleanings per bottle, making it cost-effective for regular maintenance schedules. The low-phosphate formula works specifically with food-grade beer lines, ensuring safe consumption after proper rinsing. You’ll appreciate that this cleaner maintains effectiveness while protecting the environment. The concentrated format means you’ll dilute it according to package directions before use. Regular cleaning with this solution prevents buildup that can affect your beer’s taste and quality.

Best For: Homebrewers and kegerator owners who want an eco-friendly, cost-effective cleaning solution that provides long-lasting value with approximately 64 cleanings per bottle.

Pros:

• 100% biodegradable and nitrate-free formulation makes it environmentally responsible
• Concentrated formula provides excellent value with approximately 64 cleanings per 32 oz bottle
• Low-phosphate design specifically engineered for food-grade beer lines ensures safe consumption

Cons:

• Requires dilution according to package directions, adding an extra step to the cleaning process
• May not be suitable for non-beer line cleaning applications due to its specialized formulation
• 32 oz bottle size may be excessive for occasional users who clean their lines infrequently

Tank & Line Cleaner 1 lb

Tank & Line Cleaner 1 lb delivers versatile cleaning power that makes it an ideal choice for anyone maintaining draft beer systems, whether you’re running a commercial bar or managing a home brewing setup. You’ll appreciate its dual cleaning methods: soak cleaning for light maintenance and low-foam circulation cleaning for thorough system flushes. The formula works effectively at any temperature and won’t corrode soft metals in your equipment. Its non-caustic composition removes stubborn debris without requiring manual scrubbing, while remaining safe for skin contact and producing no harmful fumes. At 4.4 stars from 104 customer reviews, this economical cleaner ranks #48 in home brewing sanitation products.

Best For: Home brewers and commercial bar operators who need a versatile, safe cleaning solution for maintaining draft beer systems and brewing equipment without the harshness of caustic cleaners.

Pros:

• Works effectively at all temperatures with dual cleaning methods (soak and circulation) while being safe for soft metals and skin contact
• Non-corrosive formula removes tough debris without scrubbing and produces no noxious fumes
• Economical choice with strong customer satisfaction (4.4/5 stars) and high ranking in home brewing cleaning products

Cons:

• Some customers feel the price is high relative to the 1-pound quantity provided
• Instructions lack specific temperature guidance for optimal cleaning performance
• At 15.8 ounces actual weight, the product contains less than the advertised 1-pound capacity

Alkaline Beer Line Cleaner

Commercial establishments and serious home brewers who maintain draft beer systems need powerful cleaning solutions that cut through protein buildup and mineral deposits effectively. Nu-Foam Alkaline Beer Line Cleaner delivers the deep cleaning power you need to maintain ideal beer dispensing performance. This 32oz formula comes in a convenient 2-pack, providing excellent value for extended use in busy operations.

The alkaline formula specifically targets stubborn residues that accumulate in beer lines over time, ensuring your draft system operates at peak efficiency. Users consistently report positive results when following the provided directions, confirming this cleaner’s reliability in professional and home brewing environments. The concentrated solution works effectively to remove deposits that can affect beer taste and quality, helping you maintain the pristine condition your customers expect.

Best For: Commercial establishments and serious home brewers who maintain draft beer systems and need powerful cleaning solutions to cut through protein buildup and mineral deposits.

Pros:

• Effectively removes stubborn protein buildup and mineral deposits from beer lines
• Comes in a convenient 2-pack (32oz each) providing excellent value for extended use
• Users consistently report positive results when following provided directions

Cons:

• Requires careful following of directions for optimal results
• May be more product than needed for occasional home use
• No specific information provided about compatibility with all beer line materials

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Beer Line Cleaner

When I’m selecting the right beer line cleaner for my system, I need to evaluate several critical factors that directly impact cleaning effectiveness and operational safety. The cleaning formula type determines whether I’ll use an alkaline, acid, or enzymatic cleaner, while safety considerations affect how I handle and store the product. I must also consider the dilution ratio requirements, temperature range for ideal performance, and whether the cleaner requires thorough rinsing after each cleaning cycle.

Cleaning Formula Type

The cleaning formula you choose directly impacts how effectively you’ll remove organic buildup, biofilms, and mineral deposits from your beer lines. I recommend considering three main types: alkaline, non-caustic, and biodegradable cleaners. Alkaline cleaners, particularly phosphate-based formulas, tackle tough organic deposits effectively and serve as excellent maintenance options for brewing systems. Non-caustic formulas offer safer handling since they won’t burn your skin or damage surfaces while still fighting biofilms and mineral deposits. Biodegradable cleaners break down quickly after use, making them perfect if you’re environmentally conscious. When selecting any formula, look for products with clear usage instructions and positive customer feedback. The effectiveness varies between products, so choose based on your specific cleaning needs and safety preferences.

Safety and Toxicity

Although effective cleaning remains your primary goal, prioritizing safety protects both you and your staff during routine beer line maintenance. I recommend selecting biodegradable, non-toxic cleaners that won’t produce harmful fumes during use. Look for non-carcinogenic formulations to avoid long-term health risks from accidental contact.

Check the pH level and causticity rating on product labels. Non-caustic cleaners are gentler on your skin and equipment surfaces, reducing burn risks during handling. Always verify that safety warnings and proper handling instructions are clearly displayed on packaging.

Choose environmentally friendly formulations when possible. These products minimize chemical exposure for your team while protecting the surrounding ecosystem. Proper safety consideration guarantees your cleaning routine remains effective without compromising anyone’s health.

Dilution Ratio Requirements

Beyond safety considerations, proper dilution ratios greatly impact both your cleaning effectiveness and operating costs. Different cleaners require varying amounts of product per gallon of water. Some need 7 ounces per gallon, while others require 10 ounces. I recommend checking the manufacturer’s instructions carefully since incorrect mixing can leave residue in your lines or fail to clean properly.

Lower dilution ratios mean you’ll use more product per cleaning cycle, which increases your ongoing costs. However, don’t skimp on the recommended amounts to save money. Single-use packets eliminate guesswork entirely, ensuring you get the right concentration every time. These pre-measured options cost more upfront but prevent waste from incorrect mixing and guarantee consistent results for your draft system.

Temperature Effectiveness Range

When selecting a beer line cleaner, temperature effectiveness becomes crucial since your draft system operates in varying thermal conditions. I recommend choosing cleaners that maintain performance at low temperatures, especially if you’re using ice banks or working in fluctuating environments. Higher temperatures typically enhance the breakdown of organic materials like hop resins and proteins, improving overall cleaning efficacy. Advanced formulations can remove beer stone and soils across wide temperature ranges, while others work effectively only within narrow bands. You’ll need to monitor temperatures during cleaning to guarantee your chosen cleaner reaches its full potential against stubborn residues. This attention to temperature ranges directly impacts how thoroughly you’ll remove buildup from your lines.

Rinse Necessity After Use

After cleaning your beer lines, you’ll face a critical decision about whether your chosen cleaner requires rinsing before reconnecting your beer supply. Most beer line cleaners demand thorough rinsing to prevent residual chemicals from contaminating your beer’s taste and quality. Caustic cleaners especially need complete flushing since they can irritate skin and create harsh off-flavors in your beer.

However, non-rinse cleaners offer significant convenience by eliminating this extra step. These alkaline-based formulations allow you to reconnect your beer immediately after cleaning without flushing the system. Always follow your manufacturer’s specific instructions regarding rinsing requirements to maintain proper compliance and system performance. Skipping necessary rinses leads to cleaner buildup, which compromises beer quality and creates unpleasant flavors that’ll disappoint your customers.

Environmental Impact Concerns

Sustainability considerations play an increasingly important role in selecting the right beer line cleaner for your operation. I recommend choosing biodegradable cleaners that break down within ten days, greatly reducing environmental impact. Look for products with non-toxic ingredients to minimize ecosystem harm and protect human health during handling.

VOC-free formulas contribute to better indoor air quality while supporting environmental protection goals. Non-caustic cleaners offer dual benefits: they’re safer for your skin and equipment surfaces, plus they reduce the risk of harmful chemical spills that could damage surrounding environments.

Equipment Compatibility Issues

The wrong beer line cleaner can permanently damage your equipment and cost you hundreds of dollars in repairs. I always verify that my chosen cleaner works with stainless steel, rubber, and plastic components before purchasing. Different keg systems require specific formulations, so I check manufacturer guidelines to guarantee compatibility with my setup.

I pay special attention to cleaning solutions that need dilution ratios. My system must handle the water volume without overflowing or creating improper concentrations. Some products work only with certain fittings or faucets, which means I verify compatibility with my existing cleaning equipment before starting any process.

Manufacturers provide detailed compatibility charts for different systems and homebrew setups. I consult these specifications every time to prevent corrosion, deterioration, and operational issues during cleaning.

Cost Per Cleaning

Two beer line cleaners might cost the same upfront, but their cost per cleaning can differ dramatically based on dilution ratios and container sizes. I’ve found that one cleaner requiring 7 oz per gallon costs considerably less per cleaning than another needing 10 oz. Bulk containers typically offer better value than individual packets, though packets eliminate measuring errors. When I calculate true cost efficiency, I consider total cleanings per container rather than just the purchase price. A more effective cleaner that reduces cleaning frequency can actually save money long-term, even with a higher upfront cost. I always divide the container price by total possible cleanings to determine the real cost per use.

On a final note

I’ve covered the top beer line cleaners that’ll keep your draft system operating at peak performance. Remember to choose alkaline cleaners for regular maintenance, follow manufacturer dilution ratios precisely, and clean your lines every two weeks minimum. Whether you select a basic bottle cleaner or invest in a complete pressurized kit, consistent cleaning prevents off-flavors and bacterial buildup. Your beer’s quality depends on maintaining clean lines through proper products and regular maintenance schedules.