The drip tray is one of the simplest, most frequently needed cleaning tasks on a kegerator, and it’s easy to overlook.
Frequency should track actual usage
During regular or heavy use, checking and emptying the drip tray daily, or even between pours during a busy event, prevents overflow and standing liquid from sitting for extended periods.
Standing beer attracts pests and develops odor
Spilled beer left sitting in a drip tray can attract insects and develop an unpleasant smell faster than most people expect — regular emptying avoids this becoming a recurring nuisance.
Most trays are removable for a proper wash
Beyond simply emptying it, periodically removing the tray for a proper wash with soap and water — rather than just tipping it out — keeps residue from building up and staining the tray over time.
What to do in practice
Empty the tray as needed during use, and give it a full wash on a regular schedule (weekly is a reasonable starting point for regular use) rather than just draining it.
What we would not do
Leave a drip tray unemptied for extended periods between uses — this is one of the simplest maintenance habits with an outsized effect on hygiene and odor control.
Last reviewed 25 August 2026