cleaning drinkwell water fountain

What do you use to clean the drinkwell water fountain? I've been using a sponge and some dish soap, but I can't get some of the leftover gunk off of the little dial (to increas/decrease the water flow), or the part where the filter pad goes. I've heard of using bleach and water, but am not sure if that is safe or not

Also, does anyone buy the actual filter pads for the drinkwell or do you use other ones? I know that over here, they don't sell the drinkwell filter pads in the stores; you have to order them on-line!

I wouldn't use bleach. I think it's too risky. What if you don't rinse enough?

I just use soapy water and a sponge like you do and haven't encountered a problem. Are you cleaning it everyday? Maybe you have to rinse out the filter...that may be causing the debris. Try using bottled water when you refill it everyday, this may help to eliminate some problems???????

As for the filters, I just order them online. They don't give you much of a choice. Good luck with your fountain.

I don't have that particular brand, but I have a similar one. I don't use bleach either. I am always afraid I won't be able to rinse all the residue out. I would maybe try one of those scrubbers for baby bottles or an old toothbrush.
I had the same problem with them dumping food into the water. I moved the water farther away from the food and no more gunk
As I said, I don't use that brand, but I would try and find the filters online. I know they really only last about 1 to 2 months and I rinse mine at least once a week. If another brand has the same size filter, I am sure it would work just fine.

Tigger
I used to have the same problem with gunk. Now I let the fountain soak in hot, soapy water for about 5 minutes and then scrub it with a brush and it comes out perfectly clean.