How to clean a mini keg and tap (step by step)
By Tipzey HQ
Most guides about cleaning a kegerator are written for fridge systems with long beer lines. A portable mini keg like the Tipzey is much simpler: a stainless steel body, a lid and a tap. Here's how to clean it properly so every fill tastes fresh.
How often should you clean a mini keg?
Rinse it every time you empty it, and give it a full clean before you store it or switch drinks — say, going from a batch cocktail to beer. Leftover sugar and residue are what cause off flavours and smells, so don't leave a finished keg sitting for days.
Step 1: Remove the gas and empty it
Before opening anything, make sure the CO2 canister is spent or removed and the pressure has been released. Pour out any leftover drink.
Step 2: Rinse with warm water
Fill the keg partway with warm water, close the lid, give it a good shake and pour it out. Then run warm water through the tap by filling the keg again and opening the tap until it runs clear. This flushes drink out of the tap, which is the part most people forget.
Step 3: Wash with a mild detergent
Use warm water with a little unscented dish detergent. Wipe the inside with a soft cloth or bottle brush (a brush isn't included, so any soft kitchen bottle brush works). Avoid steel wool or abrasive scourers, which can scratch stainless steel.
Run the soapy water through the tap too, then rinse the keg and tap thoroughly with clean water until there's no soap taste left.
Step 4: Sanitise (optional but recommended)
If you're storing the keg or pouring beer or cider, a food-safe, no-rinse brewing sanitiser from a homebrew shop is a good final step. Follow the product's instructions for dilution and contact time.
Step 5: Dry fully before storing
Leave the keg upside down with the lid off until it's completely dry. Store it with the lid loose so no moisture gets trapped. That's the easiest way to stop smells building up between parties.
Frequently asked questions
Does a mini keg need beer line cleaner? Not for the Tipzey. There are no long beer lines — just the keg body and tap — so warm water, mild detergent and an optional sanitiser do the job.
Why does my keg smell after use? Usually leftover sugar or moisture. Rinse straight after emptying and dry it fully with the lid off.
Can I use bleach? We don't recommend it on stainless steel. Stick to mild detergent and a food-safe brewing sanitiser.
Cold drinks all summer. On tap.
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