We dishwasher the bottles and it works great. Once in awhile DH will forget a bottle and, yup, if it's nasty, to the recycling it goes.

We did read a great tip on the camelbak bladders that would probably work in the water bottles, too, for getting rid of residual tastes....and disinfecting (sort of). Classic Coke. Soak overnight, rinse well. Can't see why it wouldnt work with a water bottle, too. The main point they made was to be sure that the coke hit all surfaces.

We had previously tried lemonjuice and mouthwash, and prefer the coke solution (not that I'd drink the stuff! haha)

Might be worth a try for that sentimental favourite.

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~