10 Best Brewing Cleaners to Keep Your Equipment Spotless (PBW, OxiClean & More)

I’ve tested numerous brewing cleaners and consistently recommend Five Star PBW as the top choice for its non-caustic alkaline formula that dissolves quickly in warm water at 1-2 ounces per gallon. OXO BREW‘s all-natural descaling solution works excellently for coffee equipment, while Single Step No Rinse Cleanser creates 32 gallons of oxygen-based cleaning solution from just one pound. These cleaners effectively remove stubborn organic soils from stainless steel, glass, and plastic without harsh scrubbing, and the detailed comparison below reveals which specific cleaner matches your brewing setup perfectly.

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Notable Insights

• Five Star PBW offers multiple formats (powder, liquid, tablets) for versatile cleaning of stainless steel, glass, and plastic brewing equipment.
• OxiClean Free and oxygen-based cleaners effectively remove organic stains and beer stone without harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing.
• Non-caustic, phosphate-free formulas like OXO BREW provide safer cleaning alternatives that won’t cause chemical burns or skin irritation.
• Cost-effective options include PBW at 1-2 oz per gallon and OxiClean providing over 101 uses per container.
• Multi-surface compatibility allows single products to clean fermenters, kegs, kettles, and other brewing equipment across different materials.

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

If you’re a homebrewer or winemaker who needs a powerful yet gentle cleaning solution, Five Star PBW delivers exceptional results without the harsh chemicals found in caustic cleaners. This non-caustic alkaline cleaner removes stubborn organic soils from stainless steel, glass, and plastic surfaces without causing damage or corrosion. You’ll appreciate how quickly it dissolves in warm water, creating a potent cleaning solution from just a small amount of powder. The cleaner works effectively in hard-to-reach areas where brushes can’t access, making it perfect for complex brewing equipment. With a 4.7-star rating from nearly 3,000 customers, this affordable one-pound package provides long-lasting value.

Best For: Homebrewers and winemakers who need a powerful yet gentle cleaning solution that effectively removes organic soils from brewing equipment without the harshness of caustic cleaners.

Pros:

• Non-caustic formula that’s safe on skin, stainless steel, rubber, soft metals, and plastics while still providing powerful cleaning action
• Highly concentrated powder that dissolves quickly in warm water and creates potent cleaning solutions from small amounts, providing excellent value
• Effectively cleans hard-to-reach areas where brushes and sponges cannot access, making it ideal for complex brewing equipment

Cons:

• Limited to a 1-pound package size which may require frequent reordering for heavy users or commercial operations
• Requires warm water to dissolve properly, which may not always be convenient or available
• Primarily designed for organic soil removal, so may not be as effective on mineral deposits or other non-organic cleaning challenges

OXO BREW All-Natural Descaling Solution – 14 Fluid Ounce Bottle

The OXO BREW All-Natural Descaling Solution offers coffee enthusiasts a phosphate-free alternative that outperforms traditional vinegar cleaning methods. This 14-ounce bottle provides enough solution for three complete descaling sessions across your brewing equipment. You’ll appreciate its odorless formula that leaves no residual taste, unlike harsh vinegar solutions that can linger in your machine.

The non-toxic formula works effectively on coffee makers, kettles, water heaters, and humidifiers. It’s specifically optimized for OXO’s brewing equipment but performs well with any brand. Regular use extends your appliance’s lifespan while improving efficiency and reducing energy consumption. The solution contains additional cleaning agents that tackle buildup beyond just mineral scale, giving you thorough maintenance in one product.

Best For: Coffee enthusiasts and appliance owners who want an effective, odorless, and non-toxic descaling solution that outperforms vinegar while being safe for regular use across multiple brewing devices.

Pros:

• All-natural, phosphate-free, and non-toxic formula that’s odorless and leaves no residual taste, unlike harsh vinegar solutions
• Multi-purpose compatibility works with all coffee machines, kettles, water heaters, and humidifiers while being optimized for OXO brewing equipment
• Contains additional cleaning agents beyond descaling and provides enough solution for three complete cleaning sessions in one 14-ounce bottle

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to using household vinegar as a descaling alternative
• Limited to only three uses per bottle, requiring frequent repurchasing for users with multiple appliances
• Specifically optimized for OXO equipment, potentially making it less cost-effective for users without OXO brewing devices

Five Star PBW Liquid (32 oz)

Five Star PBW Liquid stands out as the top choice for brewers who need a powerful cleaning solution that works effectively in cold water conditions. You’ll appreciate how easily this cleaner mixes into solution, even when your water temperature isn’t ideal for other products. The simple dosing makes it foolproof: just add 1-2 oz. per gallon of water, and you’re ready to tackle tough stains and soils.

This powerful formula works quickly once mixed, removing stubborn residues with minimal scrubbing effort on your part. You can use it confidently on canning lines and keg cleaners, making it versatile enough for various brewing applications. The 32 oz. bottle provides excellent value for serious brewers.

Best For: Brewers who need an effective cleaning solution that works in cold water conditions and want easy dosing for cleaning canning lines and keg equipment.

Pros:

• Works effectively even at lower water temperatures when other cleaners may struggle
• Simple dosing ratio of 1-2 oz per gallon makes it easy to use without measuring complications
• Powerful formula removes tough stains and soils with minimal scrubbing effort required

Cons:

• Limited to 32 oz bottle size which may not be cost-effective for large brewing operations
• No information provided about environmental impact or biodegradability
• Lacks specific details about compatibility with different materials or surfaces

Five Star PBW Tablets – Bottle, Growler, Keg Cleaner (30 ct)

Brewers who want precise dosing for equipment cleaning will find these PBW tablets eliminate the guesswork that comes with powder measurements. Each 2.5-gram tablet treats exactly 32 ounces of water, making dosing calculations simple and consistent every time. You’ll get effective cleaning power for carboys, kettles, growlers, kegs, and spray bottles without measuring scoops or estimating amounts.

The non-caustic, alkaline formula removes stubborn stains and organic materials from all your brewing equipment. These tablets work effectively in both hard and soft water across various temperature ranges, giving you reliable results regardless of your local water conditions. The convenient tablet format guarantees you’re using the right amount of cleaner while maintaining the same powerful cleaning performance as liquid PBW formulations.

Best For: Home brewers and commercial brewers who want precise, consistent dosing for cleaning brewing equipment without the hassle of measuring powders.

Pros:

• Eliminates guesswork with pre-measured 2.5g tablets that treat exactly 32 oz of water
• Works effectively across wide temperature ranges and in both hard and soft water conditions
• Non-caustic alkaline formula safely removes stubborn stains and organic materials from all brewing equipment

Cons:

• More expensive per use compared to bulk powder cleaning products
• Limited to 32 oz water portions, which may not be ideal for larger cleaning jobs
• Tablets may take longer to dissolve compared to powder formulations

Single Step No Rinse Brewing Cleanser (1lb) – Homebrew Supplies Cleaner

Home brewers who want efficient cleaning without the hassle of rinsing will find Single Step No Rinse Brewing Cleanser delivers exactly what its name promises. This oxygen-based formula combines sodium carbonate, sodium percarbonate, and citric acid to tackle brew residue and beer stone without scrubbing. You’ll get impressive coverage from one pound, creating up to 32 gallons of cleaning solution. Mix one tablespoon per gallon for regular cleaning with a two-minute soak, or double the concentration for stubborn buildup requiring longer contact time. The chlorine-free formula works safely on glass, stainless steel, aluminum, and plastic surfaces without leaving residue behind.

Best For: Home brewers and winemakers who want effective, hassle-free cleaning of fermentation equipment, bottles, and brewing tools without the need for rinsing or scrubbing.

Pros:

• Excellent value with 1 lb creating up to 32 gallons of cleaning solution, requiring only 1-2 tablespoons per gallon
• No-rinse formula saves time and effort while being safe on multiple surfaces including glass, stainless steel, aluminum, and plastic
• Oxygen-based cleaning power effectively removes brew residue and beer stone buildup without scrubbing or harsh chemicals

Cons:

• Approximately 50% more expensive than comparable products like PBW for the same package size
• Limited ingredient disclosure may concern users who prefer full transparency about product composition
• Deep cleaning of stubborn buildup still requires 1-2 hours of soaking time despite the convenience claims

Five Star PBW Tablets – 10g Growler, Carboy, Keg Cleaner (40ct)

When you need a reliable cleaning solution that works across all your brewing equipment, these PBW tablets deliver consistent results with minimal effort. Each 10g tablet treats one gallon of water, making dosing straightforward for growlers, carboys, and kegs. The alkaline-based formula removes stubborn organic stains without caustic chemicals, working effectively in both hard and soft water at various temperatures. You’ll appreciate the 40-year proven track record that’s earned customer confidence across brewing industries. While tablets may dissolve slowly (crushing speeds the process), the convenience factor makes up for this minor inconvenience. With 4.6 stars from 72 reviews, these tablets consistently restore equipment to spotless condition.

Best For: Home brewers and brewing enthusiasts who need a reliable, easy-to-dose cleaning solution for growlers, carboys, kegs, and other brewing equipment.

Pros:

• Simple dosing with each 10g tablet treating exactly one gallon of water
• Non-caustic alkaline formula effectively removes stubborn organic stains and materials
• Works efficiently across different water types and temperatures with a 40-year proven track record

Cons:

• Tablets dissolve slowly and may require crushing for faster application
• Limited to 40 tablets per package which may not last long for frequent brewers
• Higher cost per cleaning compared to bulk powder alternatives

OxiClean Free Versatile Stain Remover Powder, 3 lb

OxiClean Free Versatile Stain Remover Powder offers brewers a dye-free, perfume-free cleaning solution that won’t introduce unwanted chemicals or fragrances into their brewing environment. This oxygen-powered, chlorine-free cleaner effectively removes organic stains and buildup from your equipment without harsh additives.

You’ll find this versatile powder works well on carboys, fermentation vessels, and brewing clothes. Mix the powder with water to create cleaning solutions for different surfaces around your brewing setup. For tough stains, presoak equipment in the OxiClean mixture before scrubbing.

While it handles most brewing residues effectively, you’ll need specialized degreasers for heavy oil-based contamination. The environmentally friendly formula makes disposal simple and safe.

Best For: Home brewers looking for a dye-free, perfume-free cleaning solution that effectively removes organic stains and buildup from brewing equipment without introducing unwanted chemicals or fragrances.

Pros:

• Dye-free and perfume-free formula won’t contaminate brewing environment with unwanted additives
• Oxygen-powered, chlorine-free cleaning action effectively removes organic stains and brewing residues
• Environmentally friendly formula allows for simple and safe disposal

Cons:

• Limited effectiveness on grease stains and heavy oil-based contamination
• Requires specialized degreasers for tough oil-based brewing residues
• May need presoaking and additional scrubbing for stubborn buildup on equipment

Cleaner – PBW (1 lb) (Pack of 2)

Five Star’s PBW (Powder Brewery Wash) delivers professional-grade cleaning power that makes it the top choice for serious homebrewers who need reliable equipment sanitization. This non-hazardous, buffered alkaline cleaner works most effectively when you mix it with hot water, creating a powerful solution that tackles stubborn residues and buildup.

You’ll find PBW particularly effective for cleaning second-hand carboys and equipment with heavy soiling. The powder dissolves completely in hot water, penetrating deep into scratches and crevices where bacteria might hide. With a 4.4-star rating from experienced brewers, this cleaner consistently delivers professional results without requiring harsh chemicals or extensive scrubbing.

Best For: Serious homebrewers and equipment cleaning enthusiasts who need professional-grade cleaning power for heavily soiled brewing equipment, especially second-hand carboys and items with stubborn residues.

Pros:

• Professional-grade, non-hazardous buffered alkaline formula that penetrates deep into scratches and crevices where bacteria can hide
• Highly effective cleaning performance with 4.4-star rating from experienced brewers, particularly excellent for second-hand carboys
• Dissolves completely in hot water without requiring harsh chemicals or extensive scrubbing

Cons:

• Requires hot water for optimal effectiveness, which may increase preparation time and energy costs
• Some users mention availability of homemade alternatives that may be more cost-effective
• At 1 lb per container, may require frequent reordering for heavy users or commercial applications

Craft A Brew One Step No Rinse Cleanser for Home Brewing Equipment (8 oz)

Home brewers who value convenience and efficiency will find Craft A Brew’s One Step No Rinse Cleanser their ideal cleaning solution. This 8-ounce powder releases active oxygen when mixed with warm water, creating hydrogen peroxide that safely cleans brass, copper, stainless steel, and aluminum surfaces.

You’ll dissolve one tablespoon per gallon of warm water, then soak your equipment for at least one minute. The non-foaming formula breaks down into harmless oxygen and water afterward, eliminating any rinsing requirements. Simply let your gear air-dry on clean paper towels or use it immediately.

Craft A Brew’s Orlando-based commitment to quality and sustainability guarantees you’re getting reliable cleaning power without compromising environmental responsibility.

Best For: Home brewers who want a convenient, time-saving cleaning solution that doesn’t require rinsing and works safely on all metal brewing equipment.

Pros:

• No rinsing required after cleaning, saving time and effort in the brewing process
• Safe for use on all common brewing metals including brass, copper, stainless steel, and aluminum
• Non-foaming formula that breaks down into harmless oxygen and water for environmental safety

Cons:

• 8-ounce size may not last long for frequent brewers or those with large equipment setups
• Requires warm water to activate properly, which may not always be convenient
• One-minute minimum soaking time still required, so it’s not an instant cleaning solution

One Step No Rinse Cleanser (1 lb) Homebrew Cleaner

Serious homebrewers who prioritize efficiency and safety will find One Step No Rinse Cleanser delivers exactly what its name promises. This original no-rinse formula uses active oxygen that releases hydrogen peroxide to clean your equipment thoroughly. The oxygen comes encapsulated in mineral crystals that dissolve completely in water, leaving behind only stable minerals similar to those in drinking water.

You’ll appreciate its versatility since it’s safe for brass, copper, aluminum, stainless steel, polycarbonate, and vinyl surfaces. The non-foaming formula works perfectly in clean-in-place systems and soak tanks. As the only environmentally sound, non-toxic no-rinse cleanser available, it eliminates harmful residues while maximizing cleaning efficiency, making your brewing process both safer and more streamlined.

Best For: Serious homebrewers and winemakers who want an efficient, environmentally safe cleaning solution that eliminates the rinsing step while being compatible with all brewing equipment materials.

Pros:

• No rinsing required after cleaning, saving time and simplifying the brewing process
• Safe for use on all common brewing materials including metals, plastics, and vinyl without causing damage
• Environmentally friendly and non-toxic formula that leaves only naturally occurring minerals behind

Cons:

• Limited to 1 lb package size which may require frequent reordering for high-volume brewers
• May be more expensive per use compared to traditional alkaline cleaners that require rinsing
• Effectiveness may vary depending on the type and severity of residue buildup on equipment

Factors to Consider When Choosing Brewing Cleaners (PBW, OxiClean)

I want to help you choose the right cleaning solution by examining five key factors that’ll determine which product works best for your brewing setup. When comparing options like PBW and OxiClean, you’ll need to evaluate how effectively each cleaner removes residue, how safe they are to handle and rinse, and whether they’re compatible with your specific equipment materials. I’ll also walk you through calculating the actual cost per cleaning session and how easy each product is to mix and apply during your cleaning routine.

Cleaning Power Effectiveness

Three key factors determine whether a brewing cleaner will effectively tackle the stubborn residues that accumulate in your equipment. First, I look for cleaners that dissolve tough organic soils without requiring excessive scrubbing, which saves time and protects delicate surfaces. Non-caustic alkaline formulas work exceptionally well here, safely cleaning stainless steel and plastic components while delivering robust stain removal.

Second, I prioritize oxygen-based cleaners that leverage active oxygen to break down residues and sanitize simultaneously. These cleaners don’t leave harmful residues behind, making them safer for you and your brewing process.

Finally, I choose cleaners that perform consistently across various temperatures. Whether you’re using hot or cold water, effective cleaners maintain their cleaning power, ensuring reliable results every time.

Safety and Toxicity

Beyond cleaning power, the safety profile of your chosen cleaner directly impacts both your health and the quality of your finished beer. I recommend selecting non-toxic formulations that are free from harmful chemicals, protecting both you and the environment. Look for biodegradable components that reduce environmental impact and minimize residue on your equipment.

Choose chlorine-free and phosphate-free products to prevent potential health hazards in your brewing space. Non-caustic cleaners are essential for avoiding chemical burns and skin irritation while remaining gentle on equipment surfaces. Always review safety labels and usage guidelines before application.

Check compatibility with your specific brewing materials, as some cleaners can react with certain metals or plastics. This careful selection guarantees safe cleaning without compromising your equipment or beer quality.

Material Compatibility Range

Since brewing equipment involves multiple materials that react differently to chemical cleaners, understanding compatibility becomes essential for maintaining your gear’s longevity. I recommend checking each cleaner’s material compatibility before use, as stainless steel, plastic, rubber, and glass all respond differently to various formulations.

Non-caustic alkaline cleaners like PBW work safely across most brewing materials without causing damage or corrosion. Acidic cleaners excel at removing mineral deposits but require careful consideration with soft metals. Multi-surface cleaners and no-rinse formulations generally handle kegs and carboys well, though I still suggest testing on small areas first.

Always consult manufacturer recommendations for specific material guidance. This prevents equipment damage while ensuring peak cleaning performance for your particular setup.

Cost Per Use

While material compatibility protects your equipment, calculating the actual cost per use helps you make smart purchasing decisions that fit your brewing budget. Five Star PBW delivers excellent value at 1-2 ounces per gallon, meaning a 1 lb bulk pack provides numerous cleaning sessions for frequent brewers. OxiClean’s concentrated formula offers over 101 uses per container, making it cost-effective for both brewing and household cleaning needs. For descaling solutions like OXO BREW, one 14-fluid-ounce bottle handles three complete uses, so calculate costs based on your maintenance frequency. I recommend comparing the volume needed per cleaning session against total uses available. Consider your brewing frequency and equipment size when evaluating long-term costs per cleaning cycle.

Ease of Application

When you’re choosing a brewing cleaner, ease of application can make the difference between a smooth cleaning routine and a frustrating chore. I look for products that dissolve easily in warm water, which streamlines the entire setup process. Simple dosing measures work best—cleaners requiring just a few tablespoons or tablets per gallon eliminate guesswork and measuring complications.

Quick-action formulas save considerable time, especially when you need effective results without extensive scrubbing or soaking. PBW excels in hard-to-reach areas where brushes can’t access, making it particularly valuable for complex brewing equipment. OxiClean offers excellent versatility with straightforward mixing instructions, allowing you to tackle various cleaning tasks using one product. These application factors directly impact your brewing schedule and overall satisfaction with your cleaning routine.

Rinse Requirements Necessity

Understanding rinse requirements becomes essential because some brewing cleaners demand thorough rinsing while others break down completely without leaving harmful residues. I recommend choosing cleaners that don’t require rinsing, as they simplify your workflow considerably. Non-alkaline cleansers use active oxygen to break down into safe compounds after cleaning, eliminating the need for additional rinsing steps.

Cleaners requiring rinses add complexity to your process, increasing time and effort. If you don’t rinse properly, leftover residues can interfere with future batches and compromise your brewing quality. Non-rinsing formulas let you clean equipment and use it immediately without waiting for drying time. This convenience becomes particularly valuable when you’re managing multiple pieces of equipment or working on tight brewing schedules.

Environmental Impact Considerations

How does your choice of brewing cleaner affect the environment beyond your own equipment? I’ve learned that non-toxic cleaners made from natural ingredients greatly reduce harmful chemical runoff into waterways and ecosystems. When you choose biodegradable formulas, they break down quickly and safely in the environment, decreasing long-term ecological harm compared to traditional caustic cleaners.

I always recommend phosphate-free options because they help prevent algal blooms in aquatic environments. These blooms occur when excess nutrients from chemical residues enter water systems. Oxygen-based cleaning agents are particularly effective since they leave no harmful residues, making them safer for extended human and environmental exposure.

Multi-Purpose Versatility Options

Beyond environmental benefits, smart brewers look for cleaners that work across multiple brewing tasks and equipment types. I’ve found that versatile formulations like PBW tackle everything from fermenters to kegs, eliminating the need for separate products. These multi-purpose cleaners contain active oxygen or alkaline components that handle tough organic stains without harsh chemicals, making them useful for household cleaning too.

Tablet formats offer precise dosing flexibility—you can adjust solution strength based on equipment size or cleaning intensity needed. No-rinse formulations save significant time by eliminating extensive rinsing steps while maintaining effective sanitization. I particularly appreciate cleaners that perform consistently across different water types, whether you’re dealing with hard or soft water conditions. This versatility means one reliable product handles most cleaning challenges you’ll encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Mix Different Brewing Cleaners Together for Better Results?

I never recommend mixing different brewing cleaners together. Combining cleaners can create dangerous chemical reactions, reduce cleaning effectiveness, or damage your equipment. Each cleaner has specific formulations designed to work alone. If you need stronger cleaning power, I suggest using a single cleaner at higher concentrations or contact times, or switching to a more powerful product like PBW instead.

What’s the Difference Between Cleaning and Sanitizing Brewing Equipment?

I’ll explain the key difference: cleaning removes visible dirt, oils, and residue from your brewing equipment, while sanitizing kills harmful bacteria and wild yeast that could ruin your beer. You clean first with products like PBW or OxiClean to eliminate physical contaminants. Then you sanitize with solutions like Star San or potassium metabisulfite to create a sterile brewing environment.

Are Brewing Cleaners Safe to Use on Plastic Fermentation Vessels?

Yes, most brewing cleaners are safe for plastic fermentation vessels when used properly. I recommend avoiding chlorine bleaches, which can scratch and damage plastic surfaces over time. PBW, OxiClean Free, and other oxygen-based cleaners work excellently on plastic without causing harm. Always rinse thoroughly after cleaning, and check your fermenter’s manufacturer guidelines for specific temperature limits when using warm cleaning solutions.

How Long Should I Soak Equipment in Cleaning Solution?

I recommend soaking your brewing equipment for 15-30 minutes in most cleaning solutions like PBW or OxiClean. For heavily soiled items, you can extend this to 60 minutes maximum. Don’t exceed the manufacturer’s recommended contact time, as longer soaking won’t improve cleaning and may damage certain materials. After soaking, scrub gently with a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

On a final note

I’ve covered the top cleaning products that’ll keep your brewing equipment in excellent condition. Whether you choose PBW powder, liquid, or tablets, OxiClean alternatives, or no-rinse options, you’ll maintain proper sanitation standards. Remember to follow manufacturer instructions, use correct water temperatures, and measure accurately. Clean equipment produces better beer and extends your gear’s lifespan. Pick the cleaner that matches your brewing frequency and equipment needs.