There is no question that any product that helps reduce single-use plastics is a great investment, and reusable water bottles that are both good-looking and functional are no exception. What's more, they seem like a necessity in this modern, hydration-obsessed world.
Therefore, it’s high time to get rid of your conventional drink bottles and switch to sustainable ones instead. However, finding the right bottle to match your taste can be a real challenge due to the wide range of colours, shapes and features. For that reason, there are some important factors to keep in mind when purchasing.
With or Without a Straw?
First things first, not all reusable drink bottles are created equal. So, if you look for a safer and more hygienic option, an eco-friendly and durable ceramic water bottle with a straw will keep your favourite drink fresh throughout the day.
In terms of design, there are also some slight variations. Some bottles come with a fixed straw, so you can only use the bottle with the straw in it. Other designs include removable straws which can easily be taken off when you don't want to drink with it anymore or when you need to wash your ceramic water bottle.
The best thing yet is that straws in reusable bottles are sustainable as well. Moreover, they come in different lengths and thicknesses. They are also made from different materials, similar to reusable water bottles. The length, thickness, and materials you prefer will depend on how or where you will be using it.
In this regard, reusable hard plastic straws frequently have entertaining or intriguing patterns and are reasonably priced. They are not as strong as straws made of other materials, though.
Reusable bamboo straws are the most biodegradable choice as they are composed of reusable materials and have a very low environmental impact. These straws are less sturdy than the ones made from other materials, although they can be used repeatedly. The only drawback of a bamboo straw is that it could have a mild bamboo stalk flavour.
Drinking from silicone straws is quite comfortable. You would not necessarily need to clean them with a cleaning brush because they are frequently dishwasher safe. For simple cleaning, some silicone straws even include a squeegee cleaner. Many straws made from silicone are suitable for use with both hot and cold beverages. When you have an insulated water bottle, this is extremely useful.
Typically, dishwasher-safe, stainless-steel straws are simple to keep clean. Many have a cleaning brush as well. Even though stainless-steel reusable straws are a well-liked option, some individuals dislike the way metal feels against their teeth.
When narrowing down your material choices, keep in mind that reusable straws meant for travelling or carrying around must be resilient and portable. On the other hand, straws used throughout the day must comfortably and conveniently deliver the proper amount of drink you carry.
Using a ceramic water bottle with a straw makes it even more environmentally friendly. What's more, they are germs-free and more hygienic as well. They are simpler to drink from and open especially if you only have one hand available.
Additionally, utilizing a bottle with a straw eliminates the need to tilt your reusable water bottle back to sip. These are therefore perfect for multitasking. They are also practical for people with motor abnormalities, muscular issues, or swallowing difficulties.
Lid
Another eco-friendly option to keep your drinks fresh and safe is to utilize a reusable bottle with a screw-on lid. This real lifesaver includes lids that screw on quickly and function with an adaptor.
The inexpensive, low-quality bottles found on store shelves are frequently included with poor-quality lids that leach into the water. So, stay away from these screw-on lids and opt for ones made from stainless steel or plastic that is BPA-free instead.
Materials
The material is a crucial factor to take into account when selecting the best reusable water bottle for your needs. Plastic, stainless steel and ceramic water bottles come in a range of materials, some of which are more eco-friendly than others.
Water bottles made of stainless steel are heavier and more robust than bottles made of plastic and last a lot longer. Additionally, the drink is kept heated for 12 hours and cold for up to 24 hours thanks to the double-walled, vacuum insulation.
Bisphenol-A (BPA) is used to make plastic water bottles, and it has been shown to leach toxic compounds into liquids. However, the widely used polycarbonate plastic bottles are typically less poisonous and last a lot longer. Additionally, thanks to recent developments in polymer science, polycarbonate water bottles are becoming more environmentally friendly.
Still, the real game changer are the bottles made of ceramic. The reason why many people choose a ceramic water bottle over any other material option is due to its durability, robust construction and appearance. Moreover, ceramic drink bottles are the safest to use.
Shape and Size
There are many reasons why reusable bottles can be taken everywhere and their innovative shape and compact size are one of them. All in all, it's important to get a water bottle that fits in your hand because it will be simple to handle for extended periods.
In light of this, there are two fundamental shapes: one for holding a cold drink and the other for holding a heated one. The greatest options are round and square, while the bottle's size and form can be altered to suit individual tastes. Depending on the size you select, the bottle will have a different volume.
In addition, a crucial feature, at least for most people, is that the bottle must fit into a cup holder. Making sure the bottle fits easily into the car and handbag is particularly important if you're always on the go.