Reusable water bottles have a whole lot of benefits! Whether you choose to use them for environmental protection, health, or simply convenience, it’s safe to say they are making the world a better place! But, did you know that hidden sources of contamination are also lurking in most water bottles?

Before you panic, there are a few easy ways to ensure you're using the safest reusable water bottles out there and avoid contamination, too! That’s why we’ve created this guide to reveal what might be hiding in your bottle and the tips you need to keep them out. Read this before you take your next sip!

Microplastics

Most reusable water bottles, even those claiming to be completely sustainable, will have several sources of hidden plastic in the form of lids, handles, spouts, straw components, and even the decorative paint surrounding the bottle. With use, this plastic breaks down into small pieces (aka microplastics) that end up in your water and in your body.

Luckily, you can choose 100% plastic-free water bottles instead. While most sustainable bottles still contain hidden plastic, Pura Stainless makes the only reusable bottles (for infants, kids, teens and adults) that are made entirely of stainless steel and medical grade silicone.

Chemicals

Unfortunately, those tiny pieces of plastic are harboring something else, too. In manufacturing, most bottles with plastic also contain chemical additives, like phthalates, that can be toxic, disrupt your endocrine system, and pollute the environment. Opting for a 100% plastic-free water bottle ensures that these chemicals don’t leach into your water. That’s why Pura Stainless bottles are made entirely of only the safest materials: food grade stainless steel and medical grade silicone. As a result of these incredibly high standards, all of our products are Made Safe® Certified, free of over 80,000 toxins and are the only kids water bottles to achieve this certification!

Bacteria

Did you know that if you don't wash your bottle within a few days, bacteria start to flourish? Once you take a sip or touch the inside of the lid, bacteria from your body and the environment transfer to the bottle. The longer you leave it out at room temperature, the more bacteria have a chance to grow. But, there’s no need to worry! You can limit your exposure by washing your bottle well after each use, or at least a few times a week. That means the safest water bottle is the one that is easiest to keep clean — without plastic parts that can leach toxins when you wash them.

Mold

Just like bacteria, mold can grow if your reusable water bottles are not washed regularly. Luckily, keeping your bottle clean can prevent mold building up and making you sick. That's why experts recommend 18/8 (#304) stainless steel (also known as food grade stainless steel) bottles that are dishwasher safe with simple to clean tops — not to mention naturally antibacterial! Not only do Pura Stainless bottles follow these standards, but all of our bottles have wide mouths and removable lids with easily accessible parts. This makes it simple to scrub, soak, or pop on the top rack of your dishwasher for easy cleaning!

Tips

While the threat of these contaminants can seem scary, don’t panic! Choosing the safest water bottle and using it properly can go a long way! Stainless steel water bottles are much easier to keep sterile making it a go-to material for medical applications! The non-porous nature of food grade stainless steel means there’s nowhere for bacteria and mold to hide. That means, for healthy adults, careful cleanings after each use, or at least a few times per week should be enough to keep you safe and healthy. For little ones, take extra care to clean or sterilize your bottles more often, especially if it’s used for anything other than water, which encourages nasties to grow.

Cleaning

Wondering how to clean your reusable water bottle safely? Experts recommend scrubbing it with dish soap and hot water over 140°F to kill most pathogens. Then, let it sit for around ten minutes before rinsing with hot water and letting it dry thoroughly. If you need a heavier duty clean, mix equal parts vinegar and water, then let your bottle soak for several days before cleaning as usual. If you have a Pura Stainless bottle, this resource has all the info you need for proper cleaning and care!

At Pura Stainless, our mission is to provide the safest reusable water bottle on the market so you can choose a healthier life for your family and the planet. We hope this guide helps you better understand the risks and how you can make easy changes to protect your health. Head to our website to shop our 100% plastic-free water bottles, and send this blog to someone you care about to help keep them safe too!