Which is better plastic or steel bottle?

08, Apr. 2024

 

One of Aquasana’s taglines is “bottle your own.” Bottling your own water keeps disposable plastic water bottles out of landfills and reduces the extensive carbon footprint from their distribution. Our drinking water filtration systems can replace up to 4,500 plastic bottles per filter set. For example, our Clean Water Machine is equal to 2,400 disposable plastic water bottles.

To bottle your own water, first you need a water filter, but you also need a bottle. The water bottle options are staggering. There are entire aisles of different bottles: glass, stainless steel, plastic, insulated, with flavor chambers, disposable, collapsible. This list is endless and it can leave consumers wondering which is the best water bottle?

To help you decide, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about the most popular reusable water bottle options, along with information on why you shouldn’t use disposable plastic bottles.

Glass Water bottles

Glass is the boss in the reusable water bottle category. It is the safest and best way to store both food and liquids for several reasons. Water in glass bottles isn’t affected by any flavor from the container, giving it a “purity of taste” benefit when compared to plastic bottles and other options. Glass also offers peace of mind. Many plastics, and some metal, vessels contain bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began warning about in 2010 due to its correlation with cancer. Glass is the safest water bottle type because it’s chemical-free, made from natural materials, and dishwasher safe. When buying a glass bottle, there are a few things to look for:

  1. Has it been tested for lead and cadmium content? Make sure it has been tested and that neither are present – it’s that simple.
  2. There are different types of glass.

    Borosilicate

    is the top of the line – think Pyrex

    ®

    . This stuff can withstand high and low temps without shattering, and is lighter and less prone to break. Soda-lime glass, which is the glass primarily used for windows, or traditional glass are also great options that are less expensive.

Reusable, bpa-Free plastic bottles

While there are countless reasons to avoid disposable plastic bottles (that we’ll touch on later), a lot of people opt for a reusable plastic bottle as their daily go-to. These bottles are appealing because they’re often inexpensive and lightweight. However, there are some things you need to be aware of when purchasing. Most notably, check to make sure the bottle is BPA-free, as many plastic bottles contain the harmful chemical. Additionally, you should be careful when using a plastic bottle, as it’s more likely to warp compared to other types which is another reason we suggest a glass or metal option.

Stainless steel bottles

Stainless Steel Bottles are made from “culinary-grade” stainless steel. They come in a wide variety of sizes and different colors. There are no known safety concerns associated with using stainless steel, assuming it is indeed stainless and lead-free.. Compared to water in glass bottles, some people think stainless steel bottles make your water have a metallic taste and some can heat up in summer temperatures.

Both of Aquasana’s stainless steel bottles — our Clean Water Bottle and our 25 oz. — bottle are insulated, so they keep your hot liquids hot, and your cold liquids cold for up to 24 hours. The Clean Water Bottle includes a filter that removes more than 99% of bacteria, lead, chlorine, and more to make this the ultimate solution for clean, healthy water on the go. Our 25 oz. stainless steel bottle is vacuum sealed and sweat free. Even better? It’s huge capacity can hold enough water for hours of hydration and — conveniently — an entire bottle of wine.

Aluminum water bottles

Aluminum bottles look like stainless steel, but are, in fact, very different. Aluminum is reactive with acidic liquids. So, aluminum bottles have to be lined with an enamel or epoxy that can wear away over time. BPA is often the main ingredient used in epoxy, meaning aluminum water bottles may not be safe to use long-term. Like stainless steel, aluminum will also dent if you drop it, and it is not dishwasher safe. This would be the last option to resort to before purchasing plastic disposable bottled water.

disposable Plastic water bottles

Inexpensive disposable water bottles are made of plastic #1 or PET. PET, or polyethylene terephthalate, is the lightweight, clear plastic that is widely used for packaging foods and beverages. Some people try to wash these bottles out and reuse them, but bottles made out of plastic #1 are not reusable. Bottles made of plastic #1 are not durable enough to withstand use, cleaning, and reuse without losing their integrity. Cracks can form in these bottles and bacteria can easily grow. This is especially true if the bottle is stored in a warm area like a garage or a car.

Even with so many downsides to disposable plastic bottles, that doesn’t stop the production lines from making more. In fact, more than 60 million plastic bottles are produced, transported, and disposed of EVERY DAY in the U.S. alone. Not only that, but for such a large industry, it’s fairly unregulated by the FDA, and there are currently no government standards that require bottled water to be any better, purer, or safer than tap water.

Which water bottle is best for you?

Now that you know the benefits of bottling your own water and what to look for when purchasing a water bottle – pick one that’s best for you! Glass is the safest water bottle type and offers the purity of taste, but stainless steel offers insulation benefits that keep your beverages hot or cold. Check out Aquasana’s full selection of glass and stainless steel water bottles to enjoy healthy, great-tasting water wherever you go.
Don’t forget about a filter! The filter you use is just as important as the bottle you drink from, so make sure you’re using a filter that’s effectively removing contaminants at home. Aquasana offers a wide selection of whole house, under sink, and countertop water filters that can transform your tap water into healthy, great-tasting water that you can bottle to stay hydrated wherever you go.

Although plenty of people out there prefer plastic or glass water bottle because these are cheap. However, these aren’t the most environmentally and health-friendly reusable water bottle option. Above all, a stainless-steel water bottle is always the best choice due to its multiple benefits.

Reasons why a metal reusable water bottle better than plastic or glass?

Let’s learn why a stainless-steel water bottle is better than plastic or glass.

So, here we go:

Stainless-steel water bottles are eco-friendlier

We all know the pollution level caused by a plastic water bottles. These reusable drink bottles have led to massive waste. Fortunately, stainless-steel water bottles are an ideal alternative to plastic and glass bottles. These water bottles aren't only one-time investments that can stay with you for years. Metal water bottles are amazing because they are 100% recyclable.

Moreover, investing in a high-quality stainless-steel bottle will keep you from purchasing multiple plastic water bottles. Consequently, you can reduce waste caused by plastic to a greater extent on your end.

A metal reusable water bottle is way more durable than glass and plastic

By nature, metal bottles are far more durable than glass and plastic. This is mainly because these bottles are made with different strong metals. Due to this, these bottles are highly resistant to damage.

It means even if you dropped your water bottle from a height by chance. It won’t undergo any damage that can interrupt its usability. Consequently, you can use your metal bottles for longer than all other options.

A Stainless-steel water bottle is BPA-free

A majority of plastic and glass bottles contain toxic components. For example, plastic bottles contain BPA in them. And Glass bottles possess lead content, and both plastic and glass water bottles are unhealthy and even dangerous options to use.

On the other hand, stainless-steel bottles are BPA-free. You can invest in a metal bottle like a WIDE MOUTH WATER BOTTLE to stay healthy and hydrated for longer. Moreover, these bottles are highly durable and can stay with you for years.

Stainless-steel water bottles are always trendier

Metal water bottles aren’t only healthier, environmentally friendlier, and more durable. These also look trendier. These bottles don't lose their appeal or color after a few uses. You can safely use these for years. Moreover, you can also find stainless-steel water bottles in different colors, sizes, and design options. The variety can easily let you choose a water bottle in the style and color you prefer, unlike other bottle options.

Metal bottles can keep bacteria and mold away

Cleaning your metal water bottles is easier and quicker. You can clean these after every use with dishwashing liquid and warm water. However, deep cleaning metal bottles once a week can let you keep the mildew and bacterial buildup effectively. Above all, these water bottles are stain-resistant and corrosion resistant too.

A high-quality metal, the reusable bottle doesn’t leach chemicals

The majority of plastic and glass water bottles contain harmful chemicals. At worst, these chemicals can lead to numerous health problems, including cancer, diabetes, heart diseases, and more. Fortunately, metal water bottles don’t contain any harmful substances. Most of these water bottles contain copper-lined stainless steel. Due to this material, metal bottles never retain odors and colors, unlike plastic bottles.

A Stainless-steel water bottle is cheaper on a longer run

Initially, it seems that buying a water bottle is more expensive than plastic or glass bottles comparatively. Stainless-steel water bottles proved cheaper in the long run than any other bottle type. It is because:

  • You can easily use these bottles for years.

  • These are durable and won’t show signs of wear and tear for longer.

  • Unlike glass and plastic water bottles, stainless steel bottles don’t leave odors. So, you don’t need to replace these quickly.

  • Above all, stainless-steel bottles are easier to clean and keep from mildew and bacterial growth.

So, overall, stainless-steel bottles are just a one-time investment worth your money.

Metal bottles are available in different sizes

When it’s about a metal bottle, you’ll be happier to know these bottles are available in numerous sizes and colors. Choosing a metal bottle in a standard size can let you carry it anywhere with you. You can easily carry it around everywhere, whether going to the gym, office, or outdoor activities.

You can also enjoy the best beverages anywhere. It is because metal water bottles don’t retain the taste or smell of what you filled them in previously. Above all, having an adequate-sized metal bottle with you will keep you hydrated throughout the day.

You can keep your liquids hot or cold for longer with a metal water bottle

An insulated water bottle like HYDRO STAINLESS STEEL BOTTLE can let you enjoy cold water during hot summer days. It is because these water bottles have double-walled technology. Due to this technology allows a metal water bottle to retain the temperature of your liquids for hours.

It isn't just a hot summer day that makes stainless-steel water bottles preferable. You can also keep your coffee, tea, or other hot beverages at their temperature for up to 12 hours. Unlike glass and plastic bottles, metal bottles can easily lock the desired temperature of your liquids.

Cleaning stainless-steel water bottles is way easier

One of the key problems with glass or plastic water bottles is that they contain porous materials. Due to this, it becomes harder to clean them from flavorings and bacteria. Due to this, these can provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and mold to grow.

On the other hand, a reusable water bottle with metal is sterile and easier to clean. Easier cleaning can keep you enjoying fresh beverages for longer. You need dishwashing soap and water to clean your insulated water bottle effectively.

Final thoughts

Plastic and glass water bottles have received negative press for multiple reasons. Therefore, considering stainless-steel is a better option than these water bottles. Stainless-steel water bottles aren't only a great investment and help you stay healthier and hydrated for longer.

Which is better plastic or steel bottle?

Reasons metal water bottle is a better option than plastic or glass