Let’s talk about something that doesn’t always get the spotlight—but absolutely should: water cooler hygiene.

In 2025, we’re all a bit more clued-up about cleanliness. Whether it’s hand sanitiser at every desk or touch-free taps in the kitchen, hygiene is now a top priority in New Zealand workplaces. And while we’re busy wiping down keyboards and disinfecting door handles, there’s one spot that often gets overlooked: the humble water cooler.

But here’s the thing—your water cooler isn’t just a hydration station. It’s a shared appliance, touched by dozens (sometimes hundreds) of hands every day. And if it’s not properly maintained, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mould, and other nasties.

So, if you’ve got a water cooler in your office, school, gym, or worksite, it’s time to ask: how clean is it, really?

Why Water Cooler Hygiene Is a Big Deal in 2025

We’re living in a post-pandemic world, and that’s changed how we think about shared spaces. Hygiene isn’t just about looking clean—it’s about being safe. And when it comes to drinking water, safety is non-negotiable.

Here’s why hygiene matters more than ever:

Health and safety compliance: NZ workplaces are expected to meet higher hygiene standards, especially in shared environments.
Employee wellbeing: Staff want to know their workplace is looking after them—not just with pay and perks, but with clean, safe facilities.
Reputation: A dirty water cooler isn’t just unpleasant—it reflects poorly on your business.

What Can Go Wrong If You Don’t Clean Your Cooler?

Let’s get real for a moment. If a water cooler isn’t regularly cleaned and serviced, it can develop:

Biofilm: A slimy layer of bacteria that builds up inside pipes and taps.
Mould and mildew: Especially in drip trays and reservoirs.
Bad smells and tastes: Caused by stagnant water or dirty filters.
Reduced water flow: From clogged or contaminated parts.

And yes, people notice. If your cooler smells off or the water tastes weird, staff will stop using it—and that defeats the whole purpose.

How Often Should You Clean a Water Cooler?

The short answer: more often than you think.

At a minimum, you should:

Wipe down external surfaces weekly
Empty and clean the drip tray regularly
Sanitize taps and nozzles monthly
Replace filters!!
Schedule professional servicing at least once a year

But let’s be honest—most workplaces don’t have the time or expertise to do this properly. That’s where Big Blue comes in.

Big Blue’s 25-Step Envirosafe Sanitisation Process

Big Blue doesn’t mess around when it comes to hygiene. Their Envirosafe sanitisation process is one of the most thorough in the industry, and it’s included with every rental plan.

Here’s a sneak peek at what it involves:

Full internal and external cleaning
Disinfection of taps, reservoirs, and bottle necks
Filter checks and replacements
Inspection of water flow and temperature
Sanitisation of drip trays and splash zones
Final quality check to ensure everything’s spotless

It’s not just a quick wipe-down—it’s a deep clean that keeps your cooler safe, fresh, and fully compliant with NZ health standards.

Filtered Water = Cleaner Water

Hygiene isn’t just about the cooler—it’s about the water itself. Big Blue’s coolers come with multi-stage filtration systems that remove:

Chlorine
Sediment
Rust
Organic compounds
Unpleasant odours and tastes

This means the water isn’t just clean—it’s delicious. And when water tastes good, people drink more of it. That’s a win for hydration and health.

Rental Plans That Include Hygiene Servicing

One of the best things about Big Blue is that they take care of everything. Their rental plans include:

Installation
Regular servicing
Filter replacements
Hygiene checks
Emergency support if anything goes wrong

So you don’t have to worry about cleaning schedules or maintenance logs. Big Blue handles it all, leaving you free to focus on your business.

What About Short-Term Rentals?

Hosting an event, running a pop-up, or managing a temporary worksite? Big Blue’s short-term rental options come with the same hygiene guarantees. Every cooler is cleaned and sanitised before delivery, and servicing is available throughout your rental period.

It’s hydration without the hassle—and without the hygiene risks.

Sustainability Meets Cleanliness

Big Blue is also big on sustainability. Their refill stations and bottle fillers encourage reusable bottles, cutting down on single-use plastic. And because these stations are regularly cleaned and maintained, you get the best of both worlds: eco-friendly and hygienic.

How to Know If Your Cooler Needs a Clean

Here are a few signs that your cooler might be overdue for a service:

Water tastes metallic, musty, or “off”
You notice slime or residue around the taps
The drip tray is full or mouldy
Water flow is slow or inconsistent
Staff are avoiding the cooler altogether

If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to call Big Blue.

Final Thoughts: Clean Water, Clean Workplace

In 2025, hygiene isn’t optional—it’s expected. And when it comes to water coolers, cleanliness is key. A well-maintained cooler keeps your team healthy, hydrated, and happy. It shows you care about the details. And it helps you meet the high standards of today’s workplace.

So whether you’ve got a cooler already or you’re thinking about getting one, make sure hygiene is part of the plan. And if you want a partner who takes care of it all, Big Blue is the way to go.

Ready to Upgrade Your Water Cooler Hygiene?

Visit www.bigblue.co.nz to explore their range of coolers, rental plans, and hygiene services. You can request a free quote, book a site visit, or chat with their friendly team about what’s best for your space.

Because clean water isn’t just refreshing—it’s essential.