How to Clean and Store Your Trojan Pen Waterers

Your Trojan Pen Waterers are built to last, but just like any piece of livestock equipment, they’ll work best when they’re cleaned regularly and stored properly in the off-season. Taking a few extra minutes for maintenance will keep them in tip-top shape and ready for the next show or season.

Step 1: Remove and Empty the Pen Waterer

• Start by removing the waterer from the pen.
• Empty the Pen Waterer completely.
• Rinse the waterer, inside and out.

Step 2: Wash with Mild Soap and Warm Water

• Use a bucket or sink filled with warm, soapy water.
• Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the inside, lid, and nipple assembly.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and rough cleaning tools that might damage the finish or leave residues.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry Completely

• Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap.
• Be sure to let plenty of water flow through the nipple by filling the waterer and pressing the trigger to the sides (not up into the nipple body) to rinse the nipple assembly completely
• Let the waterer air-dry fully before storing — moisture can lead to mold or corrosion.

Step 4: Store in a Cool, Dry Place

• Keep the waterers indoors or in a weather-protected area.
• Store with the lid loosely in place to allow airflow while also protecting the inside of the waterer.

Keep them out of direct sunlight for extended periods, as prolonged UV exposure can eventually cause fading and brittleness over extended periods of time.

Step 5: Check for Wear or Damage

• Look over the nipple assembly and body for any cracks or signs of wear.
• Replace any worn parts now so it’s ready to go next time.

If you notice any dripping or leaking coming from the nipple:

The nipple is the most important part of the waterer for your animal’s hydration, and one of the easiest places for debris to hide. Here’s how to clean it:

1. Remove the Nipple – Twist or unscrew it from the elbow of the pen waterer.
2. Flush Out Debris – Hold the nipple under running water, pressing the trigger to the sides (not up into the nipple body) several times to flush out any dirt or feed particles.
3. Remove the Gravity Orifice – Carefully unscrew the gravity orifice using a large flat-head screwdriver or a quarter and remove the spring, trigger, and Viton O-ring.
4. Use a Small Brush or Pipe Cleaner – Insert a narrow, soft cleaning brush into the water passage and gently scrub.
5. Check the Seal – Inspect the Viton O-ring for cracks, wear, or buildup. Replace it if needed.
6. Rinse Well – Make sure no soap or debris remains inside the mechanism.
7. Reassemble the nipple Assembly:
   • Insert the O-ring so the O-ring is sitting directly on the slight “shelf” on the inside of the nipple body. Any gap or misposition will cause more leakage as the trigger and O-ring are not able to seal correctly
   • Insert the trigger and spring
   • Reinstall the gravity orifice

Extra Tips for Long-Term Care

• If you’ll be storing them for more than a few months, tighten the lid and wrap the nipple assembly in a clean cloth to keep dust out.
• Make cleaning a habit — a quick wash after each use prevents buildup and saves time later.

By keeping your Trojan Pen Waterers clean — especially the nipple assembly — and stored properly, you’ll extend their lifespan, maintain water quality for your animals, and save yourself from last-minute show-day headaches.

Trojan Pen Waterer Cleaning & Storage Checklist

After Each Use
Empty the remaining water.

Rinse the tank, lid, and nipple with clean water.

Deep Clean (Before Storage or Every Few Weeks)

1. Disassemble — Remove lid and rinse entire waterer.
2. Wash — Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush on all parts.
3. Clean Nipple (if leaking)
   • Flush under running water while pressing the trigger.
   • Use a small brush or pipe cleaner to scrub inside.
   • Check and replace worn seals/O-rings.
4. Rinse — Remove all soap residue.
5. Dry — Air dry completely to prevent mold or corrosion.
6. Inspect — Look for cracks, wear, or missing parts.

Storage Tips

Store indoors or in a weather-protected area.
Keep the lid loose for airflow.
Avoid long-term direct sunlight.