What Are Reusable Water Bottles?
A reusable water bottle is exactly what it sounds like—a bottle designed to be used multiple times. They come in many shapes and sizes, including sports bottles that fit into a pocket, wide-mouth bottles that fit an ice cube, insulated water bottles that keep your beverage hot or cold, and liter-sized bottles with a handle for easy carrying.
Are our reusable water bottles better?
Please make no mistake: reusable water bottles are better for the environment than plastic. The National Parks Service estimates disposable water bottles cause 1.5 million tons of plastic waste. That’s like having every person in the U.S. throw away 86 empty bottles every year—or, if you’re into cities rather than states, it’s like throwing away nine times as many open water bottles as there are people in New York City every single year!
Those disposable bottles can significantly impact the environment even when not in landfills. According to the Earth Day Network, recycling enough water bottles to fill a football field requires over three times that amount of oil and over three thousand times that amount of water!
Reusable water bottles benefits
You should opt for and use reusable water bottles for many good reasons. The following are some of the senses.
- Reusable water bottles are generally considered better for your health, as they don’t contain harmful chemicals like phthalates or Bisphenol A (BPA) that can leech into your drink.
- Reusable water bottles are also more durable. This means you won’t have to worry about accidentally dropping or cracking them or the harmful chemicals in disposable plastic bottles leaking into your drink.
- Reusable water bottles are good for the environment: People generate over 40 billion plastic bottles that require about 17 million barrels of oil to transport and manufacture. It takes three times the water a plastic bottle uses to produce, and only one-quarter of these bottles get recycled.
- Reusable water bottles are cost-effective: A reusable bottle will pay for itself after about ten uses (purchasing ten disposable ones at $1 each).
- Reusable water bottles are convenient: Your reusable bottle means you can always access clean drinking water wherever you go. The most common size is 16oz., which fits easily into any purse or bag while not too big to carry comfortably with other things in your hands and arms.
- Reusable water bottles are safer than plastic ones: Many studies suggest that chemicals may leach from plastics into foods or beverages when stored or exposed to heat or light, especially over time. A recent study by McGill University in Canada found that BPA, a chemical used in many plastics, can be linked to congenital disabilities, diabetes, and reproductive disorders. Using reusable bottles made without BPA, such as stainless steel, glass, or BPA-free plastic, we can avoid these health risks entirely!
How is a reusable water bottle made?
Here is a quick list of the steps involved in creating them:
- Research, design, and develop a prototype
- Test the prototype
- Choose materials and manufacturing process (molding)
- Manufacture water bottle parts (molding)
- Assemble water bottle parts
- Package product and ship to consumer
Like most things you buy, water bottles go through a manufacturing process. The materials used in the manufacturing process vary according to the brand and type of reusable water bottle.
For example, a tumbler might be made with borosilicate glass or stainless steel, while plastic bottles are often made with BPA-free copolyester and polypropylene. Some metal water bottles may be made of aluminum or stainless steel.
It’s important to know that the manufacturing process will vary from one type of material to another.
- Aluminum bottles are manufactured through a process known as extrusion. This involves heating aluminum billets until they’re malleable and forcing the metal through a die with a hole. The resulting “sausage” of metal is cut into smaller lengths and sent for inspection. Of course, this is just one step in producing an aluminum water bottle!
- Glass bottles are made by melting sand with various other ingredients at very high temperatures and forming it into molds. The molds are heated slowly before being cooled quickly, resulting in the highly durable glass yet still clear and transparent enough for use as a water bottle. The molds can be used multiple times during production, saving time and money compared to creating each batch from scratch!
- Stainless steel bottles are stamped (pressed) out of sheets or plates using dies designed specifically for this purpose—each size or shape requires its setup. Hence, any changes need careful consideration before implementation takes place!
Reusable water bottle market
According to reports, the market size of reusable water bottles is expected to reach $32.5 billion by 2025. You can see the value in this growing market because they are available in different sizes and materials.
These reusable bottles are made using plastics, metals, and glass. They can be customized depending on the needs of a consumer. Some consumers have specific uses for these bottles, such as hot beverages or general use that equally serve hot and cold drinks.
With an increase in health consciousness among people worldwide, a growing trend of traveling has been observed, which boosts demand for reusable water bottles across different regions, including North America, where people want healthy options readily available at their disposal during long trips outside their homes for more than one day. This factor is expected to drive the growth of the global reusable water bottle market over the forecast period from 2020 to 2025.
However, environmental concerns related to the manufacturing process of plastic may hinder the growth of the global reusable water bottle market over the forecast period from 2020 to 2025.
Reusable Water Bottle price
The price will largely depend on what material you plan to get if you want to purchase a reusable water bottle.
- Stainless steel bottles are often viewed as the gold standard of reusable water bottles and can generally be found in the mid-to-upper range of prices. If this is your first time purchasing a reusable water bottle and you’re still unsure whether it would work for you, don’t splurge on stainless steel right away—other options won’t break the bank.
- BPA-free plastic is likely the most inexpensive option for buying a reusable water bottle and one of the more lightweight solutions. This might be a good option if you’re active and take yoga or spin class several times a week.
- Glass bottles are also reasonably priced but maybe slightly more expensive than their plastic counterparts because they tend to come with protective silicone sleeves (which helps protect against accidental breaks). They may also feel heavier than other materials like plastic or aluminum, but it shouldn’t be too much of an issue if you plan on keeping your glass bottle at home or in your office.
- Aluminum bottles come in many different styles and colors, making them excellent if the design is essential to you. They tend to fall between the price point of plastic and stainless steel reusables. These bottles also tend to weigh less than their stainless steel counterparts but still provide comparable insulation (i.e., they keep beverages cold for extended periods).
What material is used for Reusable Water bottles?
Reusable water bottles are made from various materials, including aluminum, plastic, and stainless steel. Most bottles also have to line to protect the metal from reacting with the liquid inside. Glass water bottles are also an option.
Still, they tend to be heavier than their plastic or stainless steel counterparts, creating a less convenient option for long-term use. Each material has its pros and cons:
Aluminum: Aluminum is lightweight, durable, and does not retain odors. It’s also easy to recycle (if it gets so dented that you can no longer use it).
However, aluminum bottles are often lined with epoxy resin to prevent the metal from reacting with acidic liquids. If water has been left in the bottle for an extended period (e.g., over 24 hours), trace amounts of the epoxy may leach into your beverage.
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is BPA-free, durable, and does not retain odors. Unlike aluminum or plastic bottles, stainless steel usually comes with a wide mouth that lets you quickly fill it with ice cubes and clean it after use. We recommend going for food-grade stainless steel as they ensure no chemicals will leach into your beverage while you sip on it.
Water contamination is less likely in stainless steel bottles since you can clean them at high temperatures. During the COVID-19 epidemic, you may keep safe by washing your reusable water bottle with detergent and hot water.
Stainless steel bottles are easy to wash and can be washed in the dishwasher, but always verify the manufacturer’s instructions.
18/8 food-grade stainless steel is the best material for a water bottle since it ensures the water is safe. The grade is named for the metal composition, which is 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This is one of the best grades of stainless steel.
Plastic is lightweight and flexible, but its BPA-free versions can still leach chemicals (although at much lower rates). It’s not ideal for scalding liquids.
Glass is relatively heavy and can break easily; however, it doesn’t leach anything into your water and is dishwasher safe. Some glass bottles come in insulated or silicone sleeves to protect against breaks.
Glass is an excellent choice for environmentally friendly water bottles. Natural resources are abundant and may be recycled repeatedly with glass. This implies it does not consume Earth’s precious raw materials during manufacturing.
The high recycling rate of up to 80% makes glass an excellent option for a reusable water bottle in environmentally friendly ways.
It does not affect the taste of what’s within and will never give your drink any toxins from the bottle.
To aid with grip and protection, silicone sleeves are frequently included.
Ceramics
Ceramics comprise clay and other earthen elements, so when they decompose, they blend in with the soil and cause no harm.
When ceramics reach this threshold, they don’t discharge any harmful gas into the atmosphere, which is a significant advantage and thus does not affect the environment.
They are recyclable and eco-friendly.
Reusable water bottles vs. Plastic Water Bottles
Compared with plastic water bottles, reusable water bottles are better than plastic bottles as they are eco-friendly and economical.
Reusable water bottles can be easily cleaned and reused for an extended period.
These bottles also come with a leak-proof tongue-in-groove lid to prevent liquid spilling. The container is shatterproof and unbreakable for use without fear of breakage.
Reusable water bottles are cost-effective,
Plastic water bottles are not. Purchasing individual plastic bottles is far more expensive than buying a reusable bottle and filling it with tap water. Most tap water is safe to drink and uses far less energy. The cost of those dollars spent on bottled water can add up, saving money and the environment by using a reusable bottle instead!
Reusable water bottles are healthier.
There have been studies on BPA levels in plastic water bottles (Bisphenol A), known for causing hormonal issues when consumed in large amounts over time. You will eliminate exposure to this potentially harmful chemical when using a reusable bottle instead of a single-use plastic one.
Reusable water bottles are stylish.
Single-use plastic water bottles tend to be boring and lack personality or style. In contrast, many reusable ones come in different shapes, sizes, colors, designs, and techniques that allow you to express yourself no matter where life takes you!
Reusable water bottles are durable.
A beautifully crafted reusable bottle can last years or decades longer than its single-use disposable counterpart. While most are made from glass or stainless steel will come with their protective carrying case or sleeve for extra durability during transport.
Why need BPA-free material for Reusable Water bottles?
Here are some reasons why we need BPA-free materials for Reusable water bottles:
- BPA stands for bisphenol A, an industrial chemical used in manufacturing plastic items and resins since the 1960s. The problem with BPA is that it can leach into food and drink products from containers made with these materials over time.
- BPA is similar to female estrogen, which can interfere with normal hormones. Hence it is called an endocrine disruptor. This can cause various issues with fertility in both males and females, increase the risk of miscarriage or having a child with congenital disabilities, increase blood pressure which can lead to heart disease or diabetes, etc., cause cancer, or even affect brain development in kids.
- BPA exposure varies depending on how you use products or what type contains BPA. So, for example, if you have a plastic bottle made from BPA resin, more BPA will leach into your water if it sits in sunlight or gets heated up by hot water inside, etc., than if it just sits on your shelf at room temperature.
- The significant negative impact of BPA is its ability to disrupt hormone function because it mimics estrogen, the body’s natural sex hormone. Even in small amounts, consumption can trigger hormonal changes in your body, leading to serious health problems later.
How To Clean Reusable Water Bottles?
It is simple to clean a reusable water bottle:
- Allow it to soak overnight. In the morning, thoroughly rinse the bottle with warm water and allow it to dry. Use this procedure to clean your reusable water bottle of harsh flavors or odors.
- To clean the inside of the bottle, use a toothbrush or a small cleaning brush. Make sure to clean down to the bottom. It would help keep your reusable water bottle’s cap or lid clean.
- A reusable water bottle does not survive permanently, even though it is reusable. They have a useful life despite the lack of stated shelf life for reusable bottles.
- It doesn’t matter how often you use it or wash your reusable water bottle. It would help to clean your bottle at least once every two weeks.
- Regarding durability, you can anticipate your stainless steel water bottle to last an average of 12 years before it shows signs of wear and needs to be replaced.
- Your reusable water bottle will determine how long it lasts, meaning it can have an extended life shelf if adequately cared for.
How Does Using A Reusable Water Bottle Help The Environment?
A reusable water bottle helps the environment in many ways.
We are reducing plastic waste. Every person uses about 300 disposable water bottles each year, which takes up a lot of space in our landfills and oceans.
Reduce your carbon footprint by 27 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions annually, the equivalent of driving 40 miles in your car.
Reducing pollution and energy consumption are both contributors to global warming. Many people who use a reusable bottle will say they feel better when drinking from it because they know they have reduced their environmental impact.
Reduce pollution by lowering the amount of rubbish in landfills. Every year, the production of throwaway water bottles results in 2.5 million tons of carbon dioxide. Because of its part in the greenhouse effect, carbon dioxide is a significant source of air pollution, making plastic bottles not eco-friendly.
Using reusable water bottles ensures that marine life is safeguarded by keeping the environment safe.
Are Reusable Water Bottles Safe?
Yes, most of them are! The bottle should be safe if made from food-grade or medical-grade materials.
Consider what reusable water bottle is built of and how easy it is to clean when choosing the healthiest reusable water bottle.
However, checking the label on any bottle you purchase is essential to see what material it’s made from. The brand should have that information available on its website. If they don’t have it listed anywhere, you might think twice about buying a container containing unknown materials.
You’ll want to avoid water bottles with BPA (bisphenol A). That chemical compound can disrupt hormones and lead to problems like infertility, obesity, and diabetes. You’ll also want to avoid water bottles with a metallic finish or ones with a metallic smell when you take your first drink out of them (this probably means they’re leaching chemicals into your water).
Consider the accessibility of the entire inside and lip of the bottle and the top or cap when selecting your reusable water bottle. To ensure that your reusable water bottle is clean and safe to drink, it’s best to wash it by hand using a bottle brush after each use.
Can I Bring A Reusable Water Bottle To Universal Studio?
Yes,
The Universal theme parks allow visitors to bring reusable water bottles into the gardens. You can ask for a refill at any park restaurant or service counter.
You can save a lot of money by carrying along with these leak-proof, collapsible, reusable water bottles instead of buying bottled water at the park, even if substantial water bottles won’t fit in your fanny pack.
However, you should avoid taking large, bulky, and space-consuming water bottles like Hydro flasks.
What Are The Safest Reusable Water Bottles?
The safest reusable water bottles are made from stainless steel or glass. These materials do not contain chemicals such as BPA and cancer-related phthalates. One of these materials is the best option if you’re looking for a safe bottle that won’t leach harmful chemicals into your water.
Why Does My Reusable Water Bottle Smell?
Saliva, backwash, and sweat have odor-causing bacteria that make reusable water bottles have an unpleasant smell. A moist region or extended time with a lid on a reusable water bottle can cause the stink to get out of hand more quickly.
- When you notice a funky odor coming from your bottle, the first thing to do is clean the bottle with soap and hot water.
- Try cleaning it with baking soda and vinegar if this doesn’t work. Some people report success using dishwasher detergent or lemon juice as well.
- If these methods don’t work, try soaking your bottle in warm water and bleach—but beware! Bleach permanently damages silicone straws!
- Once your bottle is safe to use again, always use fresh water in your reusable bottles.
- Always wash them thoroughly after every use; this prevents germs and bacteria from building up.
- Cleaning your reusable bottles also helps prevent mold by keeping them dry inside! Water left at room temperature can become stagnant over time and smelly when mixed with food residue (like powdered drinks).
Is Reusable Water Bottle Sustainable?
Reusable water bottles are made with more sustainable materials than single-use plastic; if you take care of them, they last a long time. They’re also far more accessible to recycle than the plastic bottles you find in your supermarket checkout line.
Reusable water bottles are made of glass, stainless steel, and aluminum. These materials can be recycled easily and require fewer resources to manufacture them from scratch. And since reusable water bottles are designed to be durable and last much longer than single-use plastic bottles, there is less pressure on the environment for manufacturers to create more new ones.
Can I Take Reusable Water Bottle On the Plane?
Yes, but you must empty it at the airport security checkpoint before flying. Airports are fortunate to offer water fountains where passengers can rehydrate before boarding their flights.
Alternatively, you can request a refill from the personnel at an airport cafe.
Can You Take Reusable Water Bottle Through Airport Security?
It doesn’t matter what kind of water bottle you bring through the TSA checkpoint on an airplane as long as it’s empty. Then you can fill up your empty water bottle at a refilling station and get it on the plane.
Why Does My Reusable Water Bottle Taste Weird?
This is very common if you notice any plastic smell coming from your new purchase.
When you first get your reusable water bottle, wash it thoroughly. Even though the bottle was probably cleaned before being packaged and shipped, rinsing the inside with soap and hot water is still a good idea.
While most plastics are not harmful, that doesn’t mean they don’t have a smell. In addition to this unpleasant odor, some people may be sensitive or allergic to certain types of plastic or the chemicals used in their production.
Cleaning your reusable water bottle regularly will also help prevent bacteria growth that can cause your water to taste off or funny. If you’re using a metal water bottle, this can also lead to a metallic taste over time.
Is My Reusable Water Bottle Making Me Sick?
“If I’m not cleaning my water bottle regularly, does that mean it will make me sick?” The short answer is no. However, not cleaning your water bottle regularly can become a breeding ground for bacteria, making you sick.
Here’s how: Just like bacteria and viruses spread rapidly in enclosed spaces (such as a school classroom or office), they also reproduce quickly on the surfaces of our daily items. This includes what we hold most often—cell phones and water bottles. Bacteria can spread from the hands to the bottle and mouth—and vice versa. This could be an issue if you’re not washing your reusable bottles regularly!
Are Reusable Water Bottles Hygienic?
Any reusable water bottle can be perfectly hygienic with proper cleaning and maintenance. It would help keep your reusable water bottle clean by washing it often with soap and hot water. Avoid using abrasive brushes or sponges so that the surface of the plastic doesn’t get scratched—scratches will cause bacteria and mold to grow more quickly in the future!
If you clean your reusable water bottle every day, it should be perfectly safe. Bacteria like E. coli cannot grow well on plastic surfaces, so there’s no need to be concerned about lingering in your plastic bottles for long periods (if at all).
