Unfortunately, we don’t always have a ready supply of drinking water when we’re away from home, so water bottles are a necessary part of daily life. As a solution to on-the-go hydration problems, disposable water bottles have infiltrated society and become the norm.
The problem is that, although plastic water bottles are technically recyclable, the majority are not actually recycled. Of the estimated 8.3 billion metric tonnes of plastic produced globally (as of 2018) since the 1950s, only 9.5% was recycled. Approximately 12% was incinerated, and a whopping 79% is sitting in landfill (Royal Statistical Society, 2018).
But, as the world becomes more and more conscious of the impact of single-use plastics and plastic pollution, reusable water bottles offer an environmentally-friendly alternative. Nowadays, taking a reusable water bottle everywhere you go is just as necessary as putting on a pair of shoes when you go for a walk or and wearing a winter jacket when it’s snowing outside.
So, in this post, we’re going to answer some of the common questions you might have about reusable water bottles.
Your Reusable Water Bottle Questions Answered
What are reusable water bottles made from?
You can buy reusable water bottles made from a range of materials, including BPA-free plastic, stainless steel, aluminium, or glass. Plastic reusable water bottles are usually the cheapest, but we don’t recommend them because they pose the same environmental and health problems as single-use plastic bottles.
Although evidence is inconclusive, there is also some discussion about whether large quantities of aluminium in drinking water can be linked to Alzheimer’s disease. For this reason, we think the best reusable water bottles are made from food-grade stainless steel or glass.
Can reusable water bottles be recycled?
That depends on which material the bottle is made from. Reusable water bottles made from metal materials, such as stainless steel and aluminium, as well as glass, are 100% recyclable. However, you may need to check how and where to recycle them with your local recycling services.
Is it safe to use a stainless steel water bottle?
Low-quality stainless steel water bottles can present potentially toxic lead levels (found in the sealing dot in the base) as they age. That’s why we only recommend using metal bottles made from 18/8 food-grade stainless steel.
High-quality and food-grade stainless steel bottles are completely safe to drink from. Stainless steel is a non-toxic metal that doesn’t leak chemicals, even as it ages and even when heated. Therefore, stainless steel water bottles don’t require liners.
How long can you keep water in a stainless steel bottle?
Assuming that the bottle is clean, water can stay good inside a stainless steel bottle for months. Perhaps longer, depending on the purity of the water you’re filling it with. However, if you don’t clean your water bottle, it’s better not to store water in it for more than a few days as bacteria can develop.
Are reusable water bottles hygienic?
Absolutely! Providing that you clean your reusable water bottle regularly.
What’s the best way to clean a water bottle?
Cleaning a reusable water bottle is easy. Just use regular dish soap and warm water. A bottle brush will be useful too. When your bottle needs a deeper clean, mix a little baking soda, vinegar, or bleach with boiling water and let it soak before washing with warm water and dish soap.
Are reusable water bottles dishwasher safe?
Only some reusable water bottles are dishwasher safe, so you should always check the brand’s website. FLASKE bottles are not dishwasher safe.
How long do reusable water bottles last?
If you buy a high-quality stainless steel bottle and care for it properly, it can last all your life!
Are reusable water bottles allowed on aeroplanes?
Yes, the bottle itself is allowed on aeroplanes, but you’ll need to empty it before going through airport security. Fortunately, many airports have fountains where you can refill a water bottle before boarding your flight. Alternatively, you can ask the staff in an airport cafe to refill your bottle.
Are reusable water bottles good for the environment?
Reusable water bottles help you cut down your use of single-use plastics and therefore help to minimise plastic waste, minimise plastic pollution, and minimise the demand for the raw materials needed to make plastic. Reusable water bottles are great for the environment!
How much do reusable water bottles cost?
Prices vary depending on the quality of the materials, the brand, and any additional features. Most 500 ml insulated stainless steel water bottles cost between €20 and €40. That’s a huge saving when you calculate how much you’re already spending on single-use plastic bottles.
How long do drinks stay hot/cold in insulated reusable water bottles?
If you’re commuting to the office most days or like spending time outside during cold winter days and hot summer months, an insulated reusable water bottle might be a wise investment.
Insulated water bottles have a double-wall design that maintains the temperature of hot or cold beverages. The amount of time that drinks stay hot or cold will depend on which bottle you buy because not all brands are equal.
FLASKE bottles can keep hot drinks hot for up to 12 hours and cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours, although exact times can vary depending on external temperatures. To keep drinks hot for longer, remember to preheat your bottle with boiling water or precool it with cold water or ice before filling it with your chosen beverage.
Can I personalise a reusable water bottle?
Of course! Firstly, you can find water bottles in an endless range of colours and designs. A FLASKE bottle comes in a variety of matt or metallic colours as well as a unique range of patterns; you can check out the FLASKE Collection.
Secondly, you can personalise a reusable water bottle with your name. Or, engrave the bottle with a friend, colleague or family member’s name to make a memorable and eco-friendly gift.
Are reusable water bottles for kids?
Everyone needs to drink water and say hydrated; kids are no different. That’s why reusable water bottles are great for kids. You can put one in your child's school back; that way, you’ll know if your child is drinking enough each day.
Additionally, giving your child a reusable water bottle will help teach them about the importance of reducing plastic waste and living a healthy lifestyle. The best reusable water bottles for kids are leak-proof, BPA-free, and available in several colours that kids will love.
Which Reusable Water Bottle is Best?
The best reusable water bottle is the one that suits your lifestyle, personality, and budget whilst minimising your environmental footprint. Reusable water bottles made from 100% recyclable materials, such as stainless steel or glass, from an environmentally-conscious retailer, are always the best!
Choose a reusable water bottle from the FLASKE Collection today! You’ll receive it in 100% recyclable packaging tomorrow. And, we’ll donate 10% to the Plastic Soup Foundation!