PROS
The Coldest Water Bottle can keep drinks cold for up to 36 hours and will keep other drinks hot for up to 13 hours. It has a smaller base that helps it fit into most standard size cup holders.
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Best Water Bottle
UPDATED January 2020
A good water bottle can help you stay hydrated all day long. Learn what to look for in a new bottle and the best options around.
BEST WATER
BOTTLE 2019
BOTTOM LINE
Made from materials that lack BPA and any toxins, the Tritan from Nalgene has a wider mouth that many like. You can easily keep track of the water you drink because of the markings on the side.
PROS
With a wide mouth and a BPA-free design, the Tritan helps you drink as fast as you would like and without worrying about the toxins that you put into your body. That wide mouth makes it easy to clean out the inside too.
CONS
You may need to wash this bottle a few times to get rid of the smell on the inside. As it lacks any type of insulation, it may not keep the water as cold as you would like.
BOTTOM LINE
Thanks to its narrow mouth, this water bottle helps you get water into your mouth without splashing liquid around. It uses both stainless steel and copper to ensure that the outside remains cool.
PROS
Available in a range of colors and designs, this insulated water bottle uses stainless steel that won’t rust and a vacuum insulation that keeps water cold. It also works with hot liquids such as coffee and green tea.
CONS
Depending on the color you pick, you might find that the metal cap rubs the design off the bottle. There is a chance that the cap might start leaking also.
BOTTOM LINE
Designed for bikers and anyone who loves the great outdoors, this water bottle will keep your drinks as cold as possible. It features double layers of insulation and is safe to clean in a dishwasher.
PROS
Two thermal layers inside this bottle keep water and other drinks at icy cold temperatures. It also has a carrying loop and a bite valve for taking quick sips and drinks on the go.
CONS
The larger design of this water bottle stops it from fitting inside the holders on many bikes and in many cars. Some shoppers found that the cap started leaking after a few months too.
BOTTOM LINE
Thermos, the same company that makes so many lunchboxes and drink carriers, now makes the Intak for those who spend a lot of time outside. It holds up to 24 ounces and allows for hygienic drinking on the go.
PROS
This BPA-free water bottle features a push button lock that lets you open the lid and access your water without spreading germs to the inside. It also has a carrying loop attached to the top for carrying as you run or walk.
CONS
The unique design of this bottle makes cleaning of the bottom quite hard. Like other water bottles, customers found that it developed leaks over time too.
BOTTOM LINE
Made from stainless steel with insulation inside, this water bottle helps you keep drinks at the perfect temperature. It comes in multiple colors and works with both hot and cold liquids.
CONS
Many shoppers complained that this bottle only kept drinks icy cold for around four hours. Other customers found that the lettering on the side wore off within a few months.
Shopping Guide for the Best Water Bottle
The idea that you must drink eight glasses of water every day is no longer true because this figure doesn’t take into account all the other liquids that you drink. Drinking more water though can have some benefits to your overall health, which is why you need to find the best water bottle. The best water bottle for 2018 might include a plastic bottle that you can pop in your dishwasher or a metal bottle that will withstand drops and falls from your bike as you cycle to work or run errands. As you shop for water bottles, you need to find one that meets all of your needs.
When you use one of the top water bottles for 2018, you’ll feel confident that you get all the water that you need. While you might think that you can only feel these bottles with water, most will accommodate other types of drinks such as lemonade or a sports drink too. We even found some products that let you carry your favorite hot drinks, including coffee and hot chocolate. Before you consider any water bottle, it’s important that you take a look at our list. You can then learn more about water bottles and how to shop for one.
Factors That Determine How Much Water You Need on a Daily Basis
Age
General health
Fitness level
Number of activities performed
Genes
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Selection Criteria
We know that finding the best water bottle for you can be a hassle simply because of the research that you need to do. You cannot simply buy one because it has a cute design or because it fits your budget because you never know if it will actually keep up with the demands of your active lifestyle. That is why we went ahead and did all that research for our readers. Not only did we look at what the experts and top websites said, but we also looked at what former customers said too.
An extensive Google search helped us find the top websites that reviewed water bottles. We looked at all the products those sites recommended and compared those bottles to the reviews that customers shared. That helped us find the top five water bottles of the year. We used customer reviews and average star ratings to rank those bottles with the top one on the top. Though Polar Bottle got our nod for the best of the best, we also found the best bottles for those who want a plastic bottle or one they can use when traveling. As you read through our shopping guide, you’ll also find absolutely everything shoppers need to know about water bottles.
Benefits of Drinking Water
- Regulates kidney functions
- Improves overall performance
- Helps you avoid dry mouth
- Improves the look and texture of your skin
We looked at dozens of water bottles and found that Polar Bottle makes the best of the best. Its Insulated Water Bottle holds exactly 24 ounces, which is perfect for a quick ride around town or a hiking trip. You can unscrew the lid to drink directly from the bottle or lift up the top to access the liquid inside. The top has a bite valve made from rubber that feels soft in your mouth and won’t damage your teeth. This valve lets you bite down to lift the top and drink directly from the bottle without pausing.
Not only can you pick from different colors, but you can also choose from different designs. You might like a pink chevron pattern or a fun floral print. This bottle has a unique design that features a wider base and top with a slimmer center area that fits comfortably in your hand. That design also helps the bottle fit inside most cup holders as well as the cage on your bike. You’ll also find a carrying loop attached to the top that lets you carry the bottle on your person when camping or hiking. As this model is safe for use in dishwashers, you can easily clean it too.
Benefits of Reusable Water Bottles
- Control over what you drink: Many studies found that companies fill the plastic bottles that you buy in the store with nothing more than ordinary tap water. When you have a bottle of your own, you can fill it with filtered water and get more control over what you drink.
- No more accidents: Though you can drink from a can or cup at work, knocking over that drink can result in a serious problem, especially if the liquid hits any electronics such as your computer. Reusable water bottles have caps and lids that keep the liquid inside and prevent spills.
- Access on the go: When you have your own water bottle, you also have access to liquids while you’re on the go. You can use one when you engage in any outdoor activities, including hiking or running. Water bottles are also great for staying hydrated at work.
- Hot and cold liquids: If you pick the right bottle, you can also drink both hot and cold liquids from it. Some of the top products that made our list can keep coffee or another drink hot for four hours or more.
- Stay hydrated: The biggest benefit to owning a reusable water bottle is that it will help you stay hydrated. Though the amount of water you should drink varies based on your body type and other factors, a water bottle will let you drink as much water as you need.
Environmental Benefits of Reusable Water Bottles
The plastic water bottles that you buy from the grocery store require a large amount of oil to produce, which is a resource needed for other things. Each time that you throw away one of those bottles, you contribute to the environmental problems of today because plastic does not break down the way that other materials do. When you switch to a reusable water bottle, you’ll produce less waste every day.
Many outdoor enthusiasts like vacuum insulated bottles because of how long they keep liquids hot and cold. The best vacuum bottle that we found is the Wave Water Bottle from Simple Modern. Though it has a simple design, many shoppers find that this is the only bottle that they need. Not only does it use vacuum insulation, but it also features two walls of insulation inside to ensure that drinks stay at the temperatures you want. You can keep liquids hot or cold for four hours or more, though the exact length varies based on the size that you buy.
Simple Modern lets you pick from different sizes as well as different colors. You can pick one that matches the color of your tent or your bicycle’s paint color. Made from 18/8 stainless steel, the Wave is resistant to rust. Even if you fill it with an acidic liquid such as lemonade or use it while camping in the rain, it won’t rust. The Wave has approval from the FDA too and won’t leave behind any aftertaste. You’ll also like that condensation doesn’t build up on the exterior of the bottle, which saves you from cleaning up after using the bottle. It will fit into most cup holders also.
Types of Water Bottles
Before we look at the top features you should consider in a water bottle, we wanted to go over the basics. The first thing that we’ll start with is the type of water bottle that you need. If you have a free promotional water bottle that your employer gave you or one that you bought from another source, you may think that’s the only type made. While plastic bottles are cheap and have some good benefits, they’re far from the only type available. You should take a look at the different types of water bottles available today and the pros and cons of each type.
Glass Water Bottles
If you like drinking from a glass at home because of how pure the water tastes, you’ll like drinking from a water bottle made from glass too. Glass bottles are completely clear, which makes them a good choice for homes with multiple people. You can all see the liquids you placed inside and ensure that you grab the right bottle in the morning. Some types of glass can break easily though, including when you knock one off your desk or drop one while walking through your house.
Pros:
•Provides a pure and clean taste
•Free from BPA and other types of toxins
•Easy to clean
Cons:
•Are more expensive than other water bottles
•Can break easily
Metal Water Bottles
Metal water bottles typically use either aluminum or stainless steel. While stainless steel is more expensive, it’s also more durable than aluminum. Aluminum water bottles can develop dents when you drop them. Metal bottles also absorb the heat around you and can feel quite hot when left sitting outside in the sun or in a locked car. You may find that metal bottles have a metallic aftertaste too.
Pros:
•Made from culinary-grade metals
•Safe for use in dishwashers
•Easy to carry
•Weighs less than glass
Cons:
•Can become quite hot when exposed to sunlight or high temperatures
•Often develops dents and other damage when dropped
•Can create a metallic aftertaste in your mouth
Plastic Water Bottles
Plastic is the cheapest material used in water bottles today, which is why many companies give away free promotional bottles of this type to entice customers. Usually designed for cold liquids and not hot, plastic bottles can have a cap that twists off or a lid with a built-in straw or drink dispenser. Plastic can contain ingredients and toxins though and can easily develop scratches. Those scratches may allow toxins to leach into your water.
Pros:
•Cheap and highly affordable
•Easy to use
•Dishwasher safe
•Available in many different colors
•Comes with various types of lids
Cons:
•Can split or crack when dropped
•May use some ingredients or materials that you don’t want near your mouth
•Can form scratches that allow toxins to gather in the plastic and transfer to your water
Insulated Water Bottles
Insulated water bottles, sometimes called vacuum water bottles, are those that have two or more layers of materials inside the walls. When you drink from an ordinary bottle, the temperature of the liquid has nowhere to go. It will gradually change to reach room temperature. Insulated bottles lock in the heat of the liquid and help regulate that temperature. This keeps liquids at a higher or lower temperature for longer.
Pros:
•Suitable for hot and cold liquids
•Regulates and maintains the temperature of your drink
•Comes in many different colors and styles
•Available in a variety of prices
Cons:
•Some models regulate temperatures better than others
•Interior walls can crack or break when you drop the bottle
•Often more expensive than other types of bottles
No matter how old you are, the chances are good that you had a lunchbox or drink container from Thermos in the past. Though the company makes a number of great drink containers today, the best plastic model that we found from Thermos is the Intak. Designed to help you stay hydrated and get all the water that you need, this bottle features a rotating meter that lets you keep track of how much water you drank. This is a good feature for those who want to stay hydrated while hiking and those who want to drink more water at home or at work. This meter turns in a circular direction to help you drink as much as you need.
Designed to hold up to 24 ounces of liquids, the Intak has an ergonomic design that features a textured panel on one side. This panel keeps the bottle from slipping out of your hands and helps you keep a tighter grip on it. We also like the push button, which lets you pop open the top with one finger to keep any dirt or germs away from the lid. Thermos guarantees that the Intak is BPA-free and that it’s dishwasher safe too.
Types of Caps
You may not think twice about the type of cap that is right for you when choosing a water bottle, but you should consider this as certain types of caps are best for different users. Many of the cheaper models feature a screw or a twist cap. If you spend a lot of time being active though, you may need a different type of cap.
Twist Cap
Most of the plastic water bottles that we found feature a basic twist cap. Also called a screw cap, it works in the same way that the lid on any other bottle would. You turn the cap in one direction to twist it off and open the bottle and then in the opposite direction when you want to close off the bottle. These lids are often prone to leaking and can let even more water out when you drop the bottle. You’ll want to look for one that attaches back to a ring around the top of the bottle. This ensures that the cap doesn’t get lost. Twist caps come in standard sizes and wide mouth sizes.
Push Cap
Depending on the type of water bottles that you buy in stores, you may find that they come with a push cap. This is a small cap that functions as both a drink dispenser and a lid. When you pull up on the cap, it lifts up and lets you pull a steady stream of water from the bottle. You can squeeze the sides of the bottle to release more water or suck on the lid to pull out the water. When you push the cap back down, it forms a tight seal that keeps the water from leaking out.
Bite Valve
Some runners and cyclists prefer water bottles that come with a bite valve. This is essentially a type of lid that you can bite down on when you need water. Often made from rubber or a soft type of plastic, this valve sits on the top of the water and covers a small opening in the lid. You’ll bite down on the valve and pull back with your head or mouth to open the valve. Once you finish drinking, you can use your mouth and teeth to push the valve back down. This forms the seal that stops the bottle from leaking.
Push Button Cap
Another type of cap that you might like is one called a push button cap. Thermos often uses these caps on its water bottles. These are great for active users because the caps completely seal off the top of the water bottle. You’ll press a button on the lid that causes the cap to lift up. While some have a small opening or lip that you can drink from hidden beneath the cap, others have a built-in straw that allows you to regulate the amount of water that you drink. Push button caps are also great for those who work outside and get their hands dirty because it keeps your hands away from the drinking surface.
When many people think of water bottles, they think of Nalgene. This company developed a strong reputation over the years for creating water bottles designed for outdoor enthusiasts. The best model from Nalgene is the Tritan, which is also our choice for the best wide mouth bottle. Made from a type of plastic that does not use any harmful toxins, this bottle is completely free of BPA and similar materials. Its wider mouth helps you swallow as much water as you need without any hassles and makes it easier to add more ice to your water.
Capable of holding up to 32 ounces of your favorite liquids, the Tritan has markings on the side that show you the amount of water that you added. You can also use those markings to see how much water you drank during the day. Though this bottle only comes in one color, it has a simple lid that you can just twist off when you need a drink. That lid also features a carrying loop that you can slip around your wrist when camping or hiking. You’ll also like the durable construction of this water bottle, which ensures that it won’t crack or break when you drop it.
Tips for Drinking More Water
- Use the right app: There are many different apps available for free or a small fee that help you keep track of the amount of water that you drink daily. You can update that app each time you drink a glass or finish a bottle. Some apps even let you set goals for the day.
- Eat spicy foods: When you eat spicy foods, your body automatically craves the cooling sensation of water. In addition to adding some spice to your meals, you can snack on spicy mixed nuts or beef jerky in the middle of the day.
- Go one for one: Many people feel like they must have a cup of coffee or a can of soda to get through the day. If you’re one of them, try changing things up and drinking eight ounces of water for every eight ounces of other drinks that you consume.
- Add flavor: Ordinary water can taste quite boring day after day, but you can add some flavor to make that water taste anything but boring. Many companies make individual flavor packets that contain a small number of calories and little to no sugar that you can add to a bottle of water.
- Make it a habit: If you follow a set routine every day, make drinking water a part of that routine. You might grab a bottle of water from the fridge on your way out the door in the morning right after grabbing your keys. Many people find it helpful to set reminders on their phones to alert them of when they should drink too.
We picked the bottle from The Coldest Water as the best travel bottle because it works in so many different situations. While other bottles have a larger base that won’t fit into a cup holder, the base on this one fits the holders found on boats and vehicles. That base also allows you to easily clean the entire bottle and any dirt or grime that accumulates around the bottom. Its vacuum insulated design ensures that it keeps liquids at the right temperature and that leaks never form. Unlike other bottles that leave behind condensation, the manufacturer of this model promises that it will never sweat on your hands or other surfaces.
Another feature that we like about this bottle is that it has a floating design. Even if you fill it full of liquid and drop it in the water while boating, you’ll find that it floats right back up to the surface. The top has a lid that you can unscrew to access your drink. It also has a wider mouth that lets you add ice cubes to your drinks. Designed for both hot and cold liquids, this bottle can keep liquids hot for up to 13 hours and can keep drinks cold for up to 36 hours.
Ideas for Adding Flavor to Your Water
As we mentioned above, adding flavor to your water will change its taste, which may make you want to drink more. In addition to using flavor packets, you can make some of the following recipes from organic fruits and other ingredients.
- Strawberry and mint: For this recipe, you simply add a handful of fresh strawberries that you cut into smaller pieces to your water bottle. To add even more flavor to that water, toss in some mint pieces that you tore by hand.
- Cranberry juice: When you use this recipe, reach for a bottle or no sugar added cranberry juice. Add as much juice as you want with some icy cold water to create a refreshing cocktail that is perfect for a summer day. You can even add a little vodka or gin to the mixture.
- Faux lemonade: The lemonade that comes in cans and bottles often has a large amount of sugar. You can make your own faux lemonade mixture at home and carry it in your water bottle. All you need is a little lemon juice that you mix with water and sugar or your favorite sugar substitute. You can also add an herb such as lavender to the mixture.
- Watermelon refresher: To make a watermelon refresher, you just need to cube a watermelon and add a few pieces to the bottom of your bottle. Once you fill the bottle with water, keep it in the refrigerator overnight. The watermelon will infuse the water and leave behind a sweet and subtle flavor.
Expert Tip
When using any type of fruit that contains seeds, use a strainer to separate the seeds from the fruit before adding to your water. This keeps the seeds from lodging in your teeth or throat.
Important Things to Consider When Buying a Water Bottle
Even if you spend most of the day inside an office building, it’s still important that you drink the right amount of water every day. Water helps you stay hydrated, which can make your skin look better and help your kidneys perform the way they should. The kidneys help filter out toxins and keep your body strong and healthy. Though you may not need to drink 64 ounces of water or more every day, you may find it helpful to finish at least one bottle of water daily. We’ll go over the important things to consider as you shop for our top water bottles and other models.
Weight
As you work your way down to the end of this page, you’ll find a section that covers the size water bottle that you need and the popular sizes available. While size is important, it’s also important that you consider the weight of the bottle when it’s empty. A bottle that feels bulky or heavy is one that you cannot easily carry and one that might make you feel weighed down when taking your nightly walk or hiking with friends. The bottle that you choose should fit comfortably in your hand or on your person both filled and before you add any liquid.
Color/Design
When you purchase an ordinary water bottle from the store, you’ll get a clear plastic bottle that has a paper label that wraps around the middle. Though some companies offer disposable glass bottles that you can recycle, you still have a limited number of options. With reusable bottles, you can pick from a wide range of colors and designs as well as patterns. In addition to picking the right size, you can choose one in a soft color such as baby blue or a vibrant shade of purple. Some manufacturers offer these bottles in floral and other pattern choices too. You can match the design of the bottle to anything you want.
Shape
Many of the bottles that we found have the same basic design. These bottles have a flat or concave base with rounded sides. Both the top and the bottom are the same sizes. No matter where you grab the bottle and grip it, it will feel the same way. You may want a bottle that has a slimmer or indented middle section though. This lets you wrap your whole hand around the bottle and get a better grip. You should also consider where you want to use that bottle or how you plan to carry it. Some shoppers will want a bottle that fits in a compartment on a backpack or in a car’s cup holder.
Ease of Use
One of the most important things you should look at when choosing a water bottle is its overall ease of use. Let’s say that you want a bottle you can keep on your desk at work as you use a computer. You’ll prefer one with a cap that you can pop or screw off with one hand as you keep your eye on the computer. If you plan on drinking water while driving your car, you’ll want one that you can easily open. Hikers and runners often prefer bottles that they can open with their mouths without stopping in their tracks.
Activity Type
If you want a water bottle that you can take to work or when running errands to stay hydrated, you might opt for a basic BPA-free bottle made from plastic with a cap that screws off. Certain types of bottles are best for different types of activities though. For example, runners often prefer bottles with slanted or rounded sides that are thinner in the middle and a cap that they can open with their teeth because they don’t want to pause to take a drink. Cyclists often choose bottles that weigh less and have a smaller design that will fit on their bikes.
Side Design
One thing that many people do not consider is the design of the water bottle’s sides. Bottles can have squeezable sides or rigid sides. Those made from plastic typically have rigid sides. No matter how much pressure you apply or how hard you squeeze, those bottles will retain their shape. Those that feature squeezable sides are often better for those who drink on the go. When you apply more pressure, you increase the speed at which the water comes out of the bottle. Bottles with squeezable sides often last longer than those with rigid sides. Rigid water bottles can fracture and crack when you drop one.
Mouth Size
Mouth size refers to the total size of the bottle’s mouth, which is the area that you drink from after removing the lid. Those with a push or pull cap typically have a much smaller mouth size than those with a screw cap do. When you want control over where the water goes and how much you drink, you want one with a smaller mouth size. If you want to cool down and pour some cold water over your head or rinse off your hands, you want one with a wider mouth. The mouth size can also determine how quickly and easily you can fill the bottle. Those with a smaller mouth may require that you use a funnel to keep the water from splashing over the sides.
Measurement Markings
Nalgene and other manufacturers make water bottles that include detailed markings on the sides. Those markings let you see the amount of liquid that you pour inside. You can use those markings to see how much water you drink too. Campers and hikers often prefer bottles with detailed measurement markings too. They can use those markings to determine how much liquid to add to a pot when cooking. You should look for any customer reviews that mention those markings too. This helps you see if the markings lasted after taking multiple trips through the dishwasher or if the markings faded or came off after a few washes.
Temperature Rating
For water bottles that you plan on using with ordinary water that comes out of your taps, you may not care about the temperature rating. If you want a bottle that you can toss in the freezer or keep in your fridge though, this is something you should consider. Plastic bottles may only work in standard temperatures of around 40 to 80 or 100 degrees Fahrenheit. When you use one in temperatures that are colder or hotter, the bottle might freeze and break or crack because of the heat. You’ll want a bottle that you can use in a range of temperatures both inside and when outdoors.
Hot vs. Cold Water Bottles
As we looked for the top water bottles of 2018, we came across many with high reviews from customers who used those models for both hot and cold liquids. Most plastic bottles will only work with cold liquids. If you attempt to store coffee or any other hotter liquid inside, the bottle can actually melt. Metal bottles are better for storing hot liquids, though the metal can feel extremely hot in your hands. Those who want a bottle that they can use for both hot and cold liquids generally pick vacuum models that retain the temperature of the liquid inside for hours.
Temperature Retention
You may want to look at the temperature retention, which refers to how long the bottle will retain the temperature of the liquid inside. If you want to take a long hike through a local park or spend the night camping with friends, you want to ensure that you have cold water during and at the end of your trip. When you fill that container with hot coffee, you want to ensure that it will still feel hot after a few hours. Most of the water bottles that we found will keep liquids cold for at least four hours. You’ll find some that retain the temperature of liquids for eight hours or longer too.
Durability
While not necessarily a feature, the durability of the water bottle is something else that you should consider. When you go to a yard sale in your neighborhood, you’ll probably see dozens of cheap plastic water bottles up for sale. Many people buy those bottles and then upgrade to a better model after finding that the plastic doesn’t hold up to their demands. Plastic is a good choice for those on a budget, but those with more money in their budgets should opt for a vacuum or metal option. These water bottles are more durable and can withstand multiple drops without breaking.
Hydration Packs
A good water bottle can hold enough water to get you through a cycling or hiking trip, but if you plan on spending even more time outside, you should seriously consider a hydration pack. Similar to those used by military forces, these packs look like an ordinary backpack. You’ll find a large container inside that can store enough water for you or multiple people for a day or more. A long tube attaches to that container and extends out from the pack. You can place this tube in your mouth to get water whenever you want it. Some hikers and campers prefer packs that serve as backpacks with space for their gear inside and a separate compartment for water.
Ease of Cleaning
Many shoppers today look for water bottles that they can safely wash in their dishwashers. This lets them know that they can toss the bottles inside the machine and clean them at the same time that they wash their dishes and pots and pans. It’s equally important that you consider the ease of cleaning when you don’t have one of these appliances though. Wide mouth bottles are large enough that you can slide your hand inside to remove buildup on the bottom. When you choose a water bottle with a smaller neck or mouth, you’ll need to use brushes and other tools to completely clean the interior.
Customer Reviews
No matter what you want to buy, you should look at customer reviews before making a purchase. Even if you want a bottle that retails for $10, you’ll want to see what others thought to ensure that you spend your money wisely. Many shoppers only look at the top reviews though and disregard the negative complaints listed. We looked at all the ratings available on the top water bottles and showed you the pros and cons in the chart at the top of this page. When you compare the pros and cons against each other, you’ll get a better idea as to whether that bottle is worth your money.
BPA Basics
BPA is an abbreviation for bisphenol A, which is a type of chemical found in certain materials. First introduced during the 1960s, this ingredient became popular with manufacturers because it allowed them to make plastics that were more rigid and lasted longer. This is just one of the materials that people look for when choosing water bottles today. The problem with BPA is that it is essentially a toxin that can lead to health problems in the future. Exposure to BPA can cause side effects such as insomnia and weight gain. Some studies found a link between exposure to BPA and diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and other medical conditions. Regular exposure to BPA can even lead to fertility problems.
While you will want to avoid or limit your own exposure to BPA, you should also limit the exposure that your children have to it. As you shop for water bottles, make sure that you focus on those that are BPA-free. Most manufacturers will list this feature in the product description. You may want to look at whether the manufacturer used a substitute for it too. Some substitutes are just as potentially dangerous as BPA.
While you will want to avoid or limit your own exposure to BPA, you should also limit the exposure that your children have to it. As you shop for water bottles, make sure that you focus on those that are BPA-free. Most manufacturers will list this feature in the product description. You may want to look at whether the manufacturer used a substitute for it too. Some substitutes are just as potentially dangerous as BPA.
Tips for Using a Water Bottle
- Freeze the bottle overnight: If you love really cold water and find that your water warms up after a few hours outside, try filling the bottle half full and placing it in the freezer overnight. This gives the water room to expand as it freezes and gives you space to add more water the next day.
- Use a sock: Water bottles, especially those made from metal, can feel quite hot or cold due to the liquid inside. To keep the sides from burning your hands, you can slide it into a sock. The sock will also keep condensation from sliding off the bottle and onto electronics and other surfaces.
- Inspect for damage: Inspecting your bottle for damage is especially important when you have a plastic water bottle. You’ll want to check the inside for deep scratches as well as any cracks. Those scratches create a haven for bacteria and allow germs to spread to the water that you drink.
- Use a carabiner: A carabiner is a type of tool that hikers and rock climbers use. Made from metal, a carabiner usually features a side that you can push down on one side or a piece that screws off to let you connect it to other items. You can use a carabiner to attach a water bottle to your belt, bag, pocket or bike.
How to Clean a Reusable Water Bottle
Though you can toss a reusable water bottle directly into your dishwasher, you may want to use some of our tips to ensure that your bottle is clean and safe to use the next time you open your cabinets.
- Soak the bottle: Even if you primarily use your dishwasher, you should still soak that bottle every few weeks. You can use distilled white vinegar and warm water, but you can also use hot water and a little detergent. Once you rinse the inside of the bottle with fresh water, let it air dry overnight or for a few hours.
- Use a brush: The same brushes designed for cleaning baby bottles work great on water bottles. These brushes have a curved handle and a number of bristles that let you reach deep into the bottom of the bottle and reach areas that you cannot get to with your hands.
- Choose cleaning tablets: Several companies now make tablets that allow you to easily clean your water bottles. You fill the bottle with warm water and toss in one of the tablets. As soon as it hits the water, it breaks down and creates bubbles that clean the interior of the bottle. Once you rinse out the bottle, it’s ready for water or any other drink.
How Often Should You Clean Your Water Bottle?
You should give your bottle a rinse with fresh water every time that you use it or each night when you get home. Many people will find it helpful to soak the water bottle at least once a week, though you can get by with soaking it once a month, depending on how often you use the bottle and what you fill it with.
What Size Water Bottle Do You Need?
Now that you know the features to look for in a water bottle, you might think that you’re ready to choose one. Before making that decision though, should consider which size is right for you. Most of the standard disposable bottles that you see in stores hold about 16.9 ounces of water. As a standard glass of water holds eight ounces, those bottles give you a little more than two glasses of liquid. Many of the bottles we looked and those on our list hold one of the following amounts:
- 21 ounces
- 24 ounces
- 36 ounces
The perfect size for you depends on how often you will use that bottle and the amount of water that you usually drink. A 21-ounce to 24-ounce bottle is suitable for daily use. These bottles don’t weigh much and will clip to your bike. You can also carry one of these bottles fairly easily. If you need a bottle for a weekend camping trip or one that you can use at the office, you might opt for a 36-ounce size or a larger model. These bottles let you fill them up in the morning and have enough water for the whole day.
How Much Should You Pay for a Water Bottle?
If you haven’t purchased a new water bottle in some time, you might find yourself shocked at how much some manufacturers charge. Serious athletes might spend $100 or more on a water bottle that they use when training for an upcoming marathon or to drink from while playing a big game. That does not mean you should pay the same amount for one that you use on an average day. Even if you love hiking or camping or spend a lot of time running and biking, you can still find a water bottle that fits your budget. The price that you pay will vary based on whether you prefer a plastic or metal bottle.
- Plastic water bottles typically retail for around $10 to $20. If you want a BPA-free design that won’t introduce toxins into your body, you’ll pay closer to the $20 mark. Thermos makes an affordable plastic water bottle.
- Metal water bottles often retail for between $15 and $30, though you will also find some priced even higher. Those made from metal will usually last longer than plastic ones do.
The price that you pay will also vary based on the size that you need. Larger bottles generally cost more than smaller bottles do.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: A water bottle with a filter is one that lets you remove the impurities from your water sources. If you have hard water in your home, you can pour that water directly into the bottle and let the filter remove the calcium deposits and limescale that would otherwise make the water taste off.
A: Collapsible water bottles use a soft and flexible material that actually breaks down into a smaller package. As you will the bottle with water, the sides inflate and expand to accommodate that liquid. Once you finish drinking, you can fold the bottle into a smaller and more compact size. Though these bottles usually hold less water than other types do, they’re great for campers and others who want to save space.
A: An infused water bottle is one that comes with a separate compartment that fits inside. You can add fruits and herbs to that compartment and let the ingredients slowly flavor your water. Some of the recipes and ideas that we mentioned above are great for using with one of these bottles. You simply place your ingredients inside the compartment and screw it into the bottle before placing in the refrigerator overnight. The longer you leave the ingredients inside, the more they will flavor the water.
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