 What is PFAS, and Which Filters and Bottles Remove It? What are PFAS Chemicals, aka "Forever Chemicals?"Chances are you've heard the term "PFAS chemicals" or "forever chemicals" within the last few years, but maybe you're wondering what they are. This article will get you up to speed by covering the most common PFAS-related topics and questions, including:
And importantly, what can you do about it?
What is PFAS? The term "PFAS" stands for polyfluoroalkyl substances. It doesn't refer to any single chemical, but rather it refers to a group of thousands of similar ones. Some of the more common and problematic variations you'll see are PFOS, PFOA, and GenX. Their unique chemical properties give them noticeable benefits with certain products and applications, particularly with non-stick and stain-free consumer goods. Because they are inexpensive and have beneficial properties, PFAS chemicals have been used in manufacturing and industry since the 1940s and 50s in all kinds of things, and The most common ones you'll likely hear about are:
Some of these like non-stick cookware and stain-free clothing are easier to avoid, and you're starting to see more products labeled as PFAS-free like the ones shown on PFAS Central's website. This seems to be leading up to a similar cultural and consumer shift like with what happened in the water bottle industry in the late 2000s with BPAs, which is why nearly every bottle on the market today says they're BPA-free. And while you may think the products in your home are a more immediate threat, that's not necessarily true. The areas around or downstream from factories and facilities where PFAS was used often have higher contamination levels in the water supply, which has led to multiple high-profile settlements. Contamination is very region-specific, so your location plays a big role on whether you likely have increased levels of PFAS in your water supply (which we'll cover in more detail in an upcoming section). If you're curious to learn more, here is a link to find more information about active PFAS court cases and settlements, including the one with 3M which requires the company to pay at least $10.5 billion in damages. What are the Current PFAS Regulatory Limits and Thresholds? Perhap the most mindblowing and disturbing thing about PFAS isn't what it is, where it's from, or how it affects you. Rather, it's how such incredibly small amounts of it can impact your health. It's is almost impossible to comprehend, but we're going to use the sun to help us out. EPA Regulations for Copper, Lead, and PFAS Regulatory agencies limit concentrations of harmful contaminants in your drinking water. Three common ones you'll see are copper, lead, and more recently PFAS. The US EPA limits copper at 1.3 parts-per-million ("ppm"). What this means is that if the copper concentration exceeds that limit, sometimes known as an "action level," then the utility provider or the company or person causing the contamination has to take corrective actions as well as notify the public of any potential health concerns. But 1.3 ppm is hard to visualize, so what does that look like? For comparison, let's use the sun as a reference. The sun is on average 93 million miles away, and if you calculate it out, 1.3 millionth of the way to the sun is 121 miles. That's almost halfway to the orbit of the International Space Station, so it's pretty far.  Copper contamination threshold (1.3 ppm) compared to the distance to the Sun Lead is even more dangerous, so it has a action level of 150 parts-per-billion ("ppb"). If you calculate THAT out, 150 billionths of the way to the sun is roughly 14 miles up, which is about twice as high as most commercial airplanes.  Lead contamination threshold (150 ppb) compared to the distance to the Sun But some PFAS chemicals have an action level of 4 parts-per-trillion ("ppt"). (link to EPA presentation with info about limits on pg 10) To go 4 trillionth of the way to the sun, you don't need a rocket or a plane. You just need a short ladder because when you calculate it out, 4 trillionths of the way to the sun is about 2 feet.  PFAS contamination threshold (4 ppt) compared to the distance to the Sun This is an incomprehensibly small amount, which leads to the question, how does something that small even affect your health? Are PFAS Chemicals Harmful? While it may be difficult to believe, those kinds of small concentrations of PFAS chemicals have been linked to a wide range of health issues, including:
Disclaimer: I do not claim to be an expert on PFAS, and I am relying on published data from reputable sources. One such source I used is the US EPA, and you can find their PFAS guidelines here. Now to be clear, this is a developing set of knowledge on a topic that need more research. Our understanding of what PFAS does to the human body and which concentrations are truly harmful are going to continue evolving based on the evidence, just like all good science. But there have already been enough peer-reviewed scientific studies from reputable sources that show clear enough negative health impacts to support proposing or enacting some pretty major regulations. And judging by Google trends and reading headlines about it and multi-billion dollar settlements with major contamination offenders, you're seeing a rise in PFAS awareness with the public which is sure to lead to more changes from brands and manufacturers.  Google Trends search volume for "pfas" from 2020-2025 Are PFAS and Forever Chemicals the Same? Maybe you've also heard the term "forever chemicals" in recent news, but that's just another name for PFAS. It's catchier and is better at the reader's attention, so the term is used very frequently in news headlines. The nickname was coined for two main reasons:
So don't be confused: PFAS and "forever chemicals" are the same thing. One is simply the technical name, and the other is more of a marketing term. How does PFAS get into your Water? Though it is regulated now, PFAS is in many common products that are still used to this day. However, in many ways the bigger problem for many people relates to groundwater and the public water supply. Factories, manufacturing plants, and government facilities that used PFAS either in products manufacturing or things like firefighting foam exposed the environment to PFAS contamination for decades. Over time, this increased the PFAS concentrations in the soil and groundwater in the immediate area, as well as locations and communities downstream. Because PFAS chemicals are is so small, many common treatment methods used by public water utilities do not remove it. And because the threshold like the EPA's 4 ppt limit are so low, it does not take much exposure for a public water utility to technically be over the regulated limit. Are PFAS and Microplastics the Same? Many people have started hearing the terms "PFAS" and "microplastics" recently, and their Google Trends search volumes have risen around roughly the same time period. As its name suggest, microplastics are small bits of plastic found the water, and increasingly in different parts of the human body. Both are health concerns that are very widespread in the environment and water systems, making them difficult to avoid. Also, both can relate to the same types of products, making it even more confusing.  Google Trends search volume for "pfas" and "microplastics" from 2020-2025 However, it's important to know that PFAS and microplastics are not the same thing. PFAS is a particular family of chemicals, and microplastics are simply broken down pieces of plastic. Some plastic products and parts have PFAS chemicals, so when they break down over time, this process can release both PFAS and microplastics into the environment. However, they are technically different things. Some filters can remove both microplastics and PFAS, so it helps to check the manufacturer's product info to see exactly what they are claim to remove before you buy a system. We've listed a few systems later in this article that remove both. Which Regions of the US have the Worst PFAS? So should you be worried? Well, to a large degree that depends on where you live. The Environmental Working Group has this interactive map that lets you look at sampling data at different points throughout the US. Darker blue circles are good, lighter blue are bad, purple are military sites which often times have the highest concentrations, and orange are other types of sites like manufacturing plants. I've included a screenshot of the map below so you can see the overview, but I encourage you to check out EWG's website and interact with the map to zoom in and see sampling data near you.  PFAS contamination map of the US (Environmental Working Group) Some areas that are closer to major contamination sources often find higher PFAS concentrations, though it's not a given. Wilmington, NC is frequently included in lists of cities with the worst PFAS contamination issues, but the actual source of much of that contamination was roughly 70 miles away at a chemical plant near Fayettville owned at the time by DuPont and more recently their spinoff Chemours. Even if chemicals aren't directly dumped into the river, they can still get into the groundwater, which can then seeps into rivers over time, which then affect downstream communities like Wilmington. This is what led to the nearly $1.2 billion dollar settlement in 2023 between Chemours, DuPont, and Corteva and downstream water suppliers.  Wilmington, NC and the source of contamination (DuPont / Chemours plant near Fayettville, NC) Long-story-short, if you want to avoid PFAS and have some flexibility on where you live, getting closer to the headwaters at higher elevations is probably a safer bet. Can You Remove PFAS, and Which Home Filter Systems Work Best? Of course, most of us can't move to Aspen, so what can we do? Consumer Notice.org has this really helpful summary of PFAS, and it includes ways you can limit your exposure, mostly focusing on which products to avoid. When it comes to your drinking water, that's a little trickier but thankfully there are a few options. Disclaimer: A single PFAS test costs hundreds of dollars because it requires highly senstive and technical tests. I run a small YouTube channel and blog, so I don't have the money to pay for tests like that yet. But after researching this and reaching out to companies, here's what I've found. Not all filters will remove PFAS, so you need to be careful. The below recommendations are based largely on this the Duke University article referenced above and these test results from the Environmental Working Group. Amazon Associates Disclosure BottlePro is part of the Amazon Associates Program. If you make a purchase using a link, we earn a small commission at no cost to you. It really helps, so thank you very much if you use one! Reverse Osmosis Filters: Proven to Work
2-Stage Filters: Likely to Work
Countertop System: Proven to Work Pitcher Systems: Proven to Work The Environmental Working Group also tested a number of pitchers, which can be a better option for traveling or events. These two had at least 98% PFAS removal in their testing, and they're some of the lowest-cost ways to start removing PFAS from your drinking water. Which Bottles Filter Out and Remove PFAS? Now on this website I mostly talk about water bottles, and they have a place in this discussion too. Even if you have an under-sink reverse osmosis system, but that doesn't help you out when you're on the road, especially if you're flying somewhere and you can't take any water with you. So for traveling professionals and road warriors, having a bottle that can help filter out PFAS can be appealing. Here are a few options that may be worth considering. Two Bottles that May Help Some, but not as Certain
Two Bottles that are Proven to Remove PFAS
Some of these are more conclusively good at removing PFAS, others are easier to use, and some are a lot more affordable. It's a developing mix of products, but I'm just glad there are some viable options on the market today and there will almost certainly be more coming soon. If you made it this far, consider using one of the links if you're going to buy one of these products anyways. It doesn't cost you any extra, and I may earn a commission that really helps out. Hope this information helps. Thanks again, and happy hydrating!
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 Owala FreeSip vs FreeSip Sway (10 minute read) Which is Better: Owala's Original FreeSip or FreeSip Sway?Owala recently released their FreeSip Sway tumbler, but is it good and how does it compare to Owala's Original FreeSip bottle? This post will review the main differences and similiarities to help you find the best bottle for you so you don't waste your hard-earned money and you can make an informed decision. Amazon Associates Disclosure BottlePro is part of the Amazon Associates Program. If you make a purchase using a link, we earn a small commission at no cost to you. It really helps, so thank you if you use one! Video: FreeSip Sway vs Original FreeSipWe also cover this info in a YouTube video if you'd prefer to watch the recap that way. How are Owala's FreeSip and Sway Bottles Similar?Owala's FreeSip bottle took over 2024, mainly because of its wacky, fun color combinations and the FreeSip lid, which is a combination straw and chug spout. This bottle remains very popular and is an excellent straw lid (though using it like a chug lid feels weird at first and can take some getting used to). Given Owala's incredible popularity and viral success, it's no surprise that the new FreeSip Sway tumbler did not stray far from Owala's winning formula, so there are a number of similarities between the two.  Original FreeSip vs Sway: FreeSip Spout The 6 Main Similarities
How are Owala's FreeSip and Sway Bottles Different?We poured over the two bottles and found 12 main differences between Owala's original FreeSip bottle and the FreeSip Sway tumbler. Some are certainly more significant than others, but they're all notable. #1 - Handle Size Owala's original FreeSip bottle has a relatively small handle that only fits two fingers for most people, and it's not particularly comfortable. Owala's Sway has a much wider handle that can fit a full-hand grip and is more comfy.  Original FreeSip vs Sway: Handle #2 - Lock Design The original Owala FreeSip bottle used its handle to double as a lock to prevent you from accidentally opening the lid. Because of Sway's redesigned handle, Owala also changed the way the lock works by making it a switch you toggle back and forth behind the flip-cover. While we're concerned this may add more small plastic parts that could break, the benefit is that you can now use the handle or clip it to a bag while the lid remains locked.  Original FreeSip vs Sway: Lock #3 - Base Diameter This is the reason why the new Sway is technically a tumbler, not a bottle. The Original FreeSip is a traditional bottle with straight-vertical walls. Tumblers are known for having tapered (angled) walls that get smaller towards the bottom, making them much more cupholder friendly.  Original FreeSip vs Sway: Base #4 - Mouth Diameter The original FreeSip bottle has a 2.5 inch wide mouth opening. Owala widened the FreeSip Sway to 3.2 inches. This makes the bottle easier to clean, and you may not even need a bottle brush with Sway's larger design because your hand can fit inside much more easily with a sponge.  Original FreeSip vs Sway: Mouth #5 - Thread Design The original FreeSip bottle has external threads, while the FreeSip Sway has internal threads. What this means from a practical standpoint is that FreeSip Sway is easier to deep clean because the seal on the lid is easier to remove. The downside is that you have to be more careful when filling up the Sway because it's easier to over-fill and have water spill when you screw on the lid.  Original FreeSip vs Sway: Threads #6 - Spout Seal Design Both bottles have a spout seal in the flip-up lid that's easy to remove for cleaning, but they look a lot different. The seal with the Original FreeSip is actually a little easier to remove because the pull-tab is easier to grab, and I found Sway's a little more difficult to remove when my hands were wet. But it's not a big difference, and both are still pretty easy to remove. The bigger deal is how the new design seems to fit better. The Original FreeSip spout seal seemed to fit more tightly, and you had to press down harder on the spout cover to get it to close. The Sway seems to fit better while still proving a water-proof seal, and you don't have to press down as hard to close the cover.  Original FreeSip vs Sway: Spout Seal #7 - Lid Turns The older design takes roughly a full turn to close the lid. However, the new Sway tumbler takes roughly a half-turn to close. This is a very minor difference, but it makes the new one a little easier to clean and use. #8 - Springs Maybe the smallest change that could grow on you the most deals with those small springs. My Original FreeSip bottle has started having occasional issues where the flip-cover did not open as reliably when I pressed the button. Well, it looks like Owala may have tried to fix this because the springs now have 6 rotations on either side instead of 4. This makes the Sway feel like it opens with more force. Original FreeSip vs Sway: Springs #9 - Button Fit If you've used the Original Owala, maybe you've noticed that the button can wiggle quite a bit. It feels like the button in the new Sway tumbler has been fine-tuned to fit better within the lid, and this also helps make opening and closing feel better and easier overall. It's difficult to show this in pictures, but you can see it more easily in the video. #10 - Grip Groove The Original FreeSip has a bottle with a smooth, uniform, cylindrical design, much like you find with 99% of other bottles on the market. However, with the Sway tumbler, Owala added in little grooves on opposite sides of the bottle. This gives it a slightly different look, and it makes it a little easier to pick up. I didn't think much of this change when I first used the Sway tumbler, but I'm starting to like this tweak more and more as a very small but noticeable improvement.  Original FreeSip vs Sway: Grip #11 - Bulk/Weight Sway's 30oz tumbler holds less water than the Original FreeSip's 32oz bottle, but it weighs roughly 20% more. It's bulkier too because of a much larger lid design. However, this is countered by the larger handle and cupholder-friendly tapered base, which both make the Sway tumbler easier to get around with in most cases despite the added weight and bulk.  Original FreeSip vs Sway: Weight #12 - Insulation Both bottles have triple layer insulation, which includes a dual-wall vacuum insulation construction with a layer of copper to limit heat transfer through radiation. However, they do NOT have the same insulation results. I did a hot water test using wireless thermometers, and Sway was about 16% worse than the Original FreeSip. But honestly, both Owala bottles performed poorly against other dual-wall vacuum insulated bottles, so if insulation is your top priority, then Owala is probably not a good option. Though to be fair, Owala still has good insulation compared to any uninsulated bottle like a plastic Nalgene for example, and it's good enough for most people most days. So for most people, Owala's insulation is good enough, and people should decide whether to buy an Owala based on the other factors, like the lid, color options, and handle design. ConclusionWhen you add all of these changes up, honestly they're almost all improvements or at worst the same or not a big deal. If you're into taking your bottle with you on hikes or long walks, Sway's larger handle may help. And if you like to sip while driving, Sway's tapered cupholder-friendly base can help it fit in more vehicles. Yes, the insulation for the new Sway bottle is significantly worse, but Owalas in general aren't exceptional when it comes to insulation anyways so if that's a primary decision factor for you, other brands like YETI or S'well might be better. Also, Sway is bulkier and heavier, but the big handle and cupholder-friendly design more than make up for it. Everyone is different, so it's ultimately up to you. But if I were to buy one Owala today, I'd go with a Sway tumbler instead of a FreeSip bottle. It just seems like Owala really listened to the feedback from customers and made some good design choices that improve the overall experience. Getting an Owala?If this review helped, consider using one of the links to buy whichever bottle is the best fit! We may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Recommended AccessoriesWe always recommend getting a good brush kit and cleaning tablets to help keep your new bottle in great (and safe) condition for many years to come. Here are the ones we use.  Which Stanley Tumbler is the Best? (10 minute read) Which Stanley is the Best Bottle?Stanley just released their Protour lid, but is it good and how does it compared to Stanley's other tumblers, the Quencher and Iceflow? This post will help you find the best bottle for you so you don't waste your hard-earned money and you can make an informed decision. We'll look at the main differences between Stanley's Quencher, IceFlow, and ProTour bottles, including which ones are:
Amazon Associates Disclosure BottlePro is part of the Amazon Associates Program. If you make a purchase using a link, we earn a small commission at no cost to you. It really helps, so thank you! Video: Which Stanley is the Best?We also cover this in a YouTube video if you'd prefer to watch the recap that way. The Big Picture
Which Stanleys are Leak-Proof? One of the most common complaints about Quencher is that it leaks like crazy, even when you have it set to closed, which has led to a lot of damaged electronics and unintended baths over the years. The good news is, and we've confirmed it here, the Protour lid is leakproof. The IceFlow bottle also uses a similiar flip-up spout, so it's leak-proof too. Just make sure you close the spout completely both both. So if you're looking for a leak-proof bottle, avoid Quencher and go with IceFlow or ProTour. Which Stanley is Easiest to Clean? Most straw lids are notoriously difficult to clean because they always have some kind of seal under them that's difficult to get to without damaging the lid. Quencher avoids this problem altogether. The straw comes out easily, and you can pinch these prongs to remove the dial to clean underneath it. Iceflow's flip-up spout is not removable to my knowledge, so you have to rely more on cleaning tablets, soap baths, and small brushes to clean it the best you can. Protour has a removable spout and this removable seal underneath. It's a little more difficult to pop out the spout than the directions make it sound, but it can be done. You angle it at about 45 degrees like this, then pull it out. I've done it a few times and the spout has loosened up a bit, but it still fits together and works nicely. The seal is a bit of a pain to get back into place, but you can use the straw to push it through. Overall for cleaning, Quencher is definitely the easiest, Iceflow is the worst, and Protour is somewhere in the middle, though it should get easier the more you do it. Which Stanley Has the Best Insulation? I did a standardized hot water test to compare the bottles relative to each other. I use wireless thermometers and measure the amount of time it takes the hot water to drop from 165 to 150 degF then average two tests for each bottle. The results showed the Quencher and Protour are essentially the same, while Iceflow is roughly 35% better. Insulation works similarly for both hot and cold drinks, so these rankings should also apply if you're using ice water too, which is how the vast majority of people use these bottles. I'll be doing a big ice test shortly, so follow our YouTube channel to see that video when it posts. Overall, if insulation is your most important factor, Iceflow is the best option. Which Stanley is Easiest to Use? The answer to this question is more based on your own personal preferences, but here's a good rule-of-thumb. Iceflow's top-mounted handle can be more comfortable for longer durations, so it might be a better choice for hiking. Quencher and Protour have the same side-mounted handle, and this can be better for more casual everyday use, like around the house, at work, or when driving and doing errands. The bottles all weigh roughly the same for a given size, so there's not a major difference there. But it's worth considering the bulkiness of the bottle too, and Iceflow's rotating handle certainly helps limit the overall size. And for taking quick sips, the Quencher is the best choice because you don't have to flip up a spout. Overall, each of these bottles is pretty easy to use. I wouldn't say one is really better, so think about how you'll use it most often and decide based on that. Which Stanley is More Durable? When it comes to durability, none of these bottles really stand out from the others. They're all made with stainless steel which will dent and scratch if you drop it, and they all have plastic parts that can break. If durability is your most important factor, consider getting a bottle boot or carrying pouch which doubles as a protective sleeve. Or it honestly could be worth looking at a brand like YETI because their bottles are made with a thicker steel that can resist dents more easily. But as far as the Quencher, Iceflow, and Protour go, there's not a major difference here. Are Stanley's Lids Interchangeable?nd if you're wondering whether the lids are interchangeable, there's good news good news and bad news. The good news is that the Quencher, Iceflow, and Protour lids are all interchangeable. Just make sure you get it for the same size bottle because for example a 30oz lid won't fit with a 40oz one. The bad news is only the Quencher and Iceflow lids seem to currently be available by themselves. The new Protour lid is not available individually yet, at least not from Stanley (though you can find similar lids from other knockoff brands). Which is the Best Stanley Tumbler?These three bottles play an interesting game of rock-paper-scissors. Quencher is easier to clean and is popular, but it leaks. IceFlow doesn't leak and is better for hikes, but it's more difficult to clean. ProTour is easier to clean than IceFlow but not Quencher. This is one scenario where it's hard to pick a best bottle because each one has its own strengths and weaknesses, and each person has his or her own priorities. But for my money, ProTour seems to be the best all-around option because it solves two of the most glaring issues of the Quencher leaking and the IceFlow being difficult to clean. For those reasons, I'd choose ProTour over Quencher or IceFlow. How to Buy a Stanley TumblerIf you're in the market, here are links to each bottle. Big "thank you" if you use one to buy! We may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you, and it really helps our channel.  (10 minute read) What is the Best Way to Clean a Stainless Steel Bottle?Big reusable water bottles can be difficult to clean, and in fact, many people still use disposable bottles for that very reason. But it's really not that bad if you're prepared, and in the long run reusable bottles are way better for the environment as well as your wallet.  These are our recommended best practices and guidelines for cleaning your bottle, including:
Amazon Associates Disclosure BottlePro is part of the Amazon Associates Program. If you make a purchase using a link, we earn a small commission at no cost to you. It really helps, so thank you! Video: How to Clean Your BottleWe also cover this in a YouTube video if you'd prefer to watch the recap that way. Part 1: Are Stainless Steel Bottles Dishwasher Safe?Maybe you're wondering can you put stainless steel bottles in the dishwasher? It's a simple question, but an unfortunately complicated answer. Many bottles today are labeled as dishwasher safe, but in general I don't recommend it for three reasons. Reason #1: It's not always clear which bottles are dishwasher safe For example, regular Hydro Flasks ARE dishwasher safe, while their Trail Series bottles AREN'T. Even more confusing, older regular Hydro Flasks with a thinner metal band below the lid are NOT dishwasher safe. This varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, so it can be difficult to know unless you look up the manufacturer's recommendations (which is highly recommended).  Reason #2: Dishwashers are more likely to damage your bottle Even if the manufacturer says the bottle is dishwasher safe, cleaning it regularly this way can lead to more damage. Some bottle brands like Owala even say their bottles are dishwasher safe, but they recommend hand-washing. Any damage would most likely be cosmetic from your bottle banging into something else in the dishwasher and wouldn't make your bottle unusable, but cosmetic wear-and-tear is still not ideal. Plus, smaller parts commonly found with lids are more likely to fall through the racks and potentially drop onto the heating element at the bottom of the dishwasher.  Reason #3: Handwashing isn't (usually) difficult Yes, handwashing takes more time, but it's really not that bad once you get into the habit and have the right tools, like a brush kit and cleaning tablets. And in most cases it's necessary for deep cleaning anyways (see below). Part 2: Which Bottles are Easiest to Clean?Not all bottles are created equal, and some are easier to clean than others. Factor #1: Mouth Diameter Narrow mouth bottles are more difficult to clean than their wide mouth counterparts. With bottles like the 25oz S'well shown below, I can't fit my big bottle brush so I have to rely on cleaning tablets and soap baths. But with others like a Stanley Quencher, you don't even really need a brush because you can fit your hand inside. If keeping your bottle clean is a priority, there's no doubt wide mouth bottles are an easier choice (in addition to making it easier to add ice).  Factor #2: Lid Type A good rule-of-thumb is that chug-style lids and the most basic lids (twist all th way on-and-off) are easier to clean than straw lids and sip lids. Using YETI's lids as examples:
Factor #3: Pull Tabs Also, consider whether the seals have pull tabs that make them easier to remove. It's such a simple addition and we're always surprised more bottles don't do this. Unfortunately, bottles that have this feature don't seem to advertise it much, but two options I know that do include Owala (just their spout seal, but not the one between the lid and the bottle) and Takeya Actives (both the spout seal AND the lid seal).  Part 3: What Accessories Help with Cleaning Bottles?Fortunately the main things you'll need are easy and cheap: warm, soapy water and a sponge. Beyond that, there are two accessories I almost always recommend getting with bottles like these. I mentioned them earlier, but I'll add them here again because I really do think they are great investments and are important to keep your bottle in tip-top (and safe) condition. Money Saving Tip: Consider buying denture or retainer tablets like these. I've seen a bunch of people recommend this on my YouTube channel, and though I haven't tried it personally, the ingredients look very similar. And they're A LOT less expensive per tablet than Bottle Bright. I personally stick with Bottle Bright because I feel comfortable with the company (instead of an Amazon store brand I'm not familiar with), and they're really not that expensive in the grand scheme if you're just using them once per month, which leads into... Part 4: How Often Should You Clean Your Bottle?Having and easy-to-clean bottle and the best accessories doesn't matter if you don't clean your bottle. To prevent bacteria, grime, and mold from building up, you need to stay on top of your cleaning habits. Here is our recommende schedule.
Keep up with this cleaning schedule, and you should be fine and will keep your bottle in great (and safe) condition. Just don't be afraid to adjust this schedule as-needed. For example, if you drink from a questionable water source when traveling, then give it a good wash after. Or if you notice stains or smells from coffee, go ahead and use a Bottle Bright tablet early. When in doubt, clean it out. Part 5: 4 Mistakes I'd Avoid with Cleaning BottlesIf you've been paying attention, I've already mentioned the three things I'd avoid doing:
But the fourth is very important. #4: Whatever you do, don't use bleach to clean your stainless steel bottle. Yes, bleach would clean your bottle, and it's probably not a huge deal in very dilute concentrations. But it's also very toxic so it's risky if you don't wash it all out by mistake. And for stainless steel in particular, it can damage the material and lead to potential corrosion or pitting in the steel. Just keep up with your cleaning schedule, use Bottle Bright or denture tablets, and you should be fine. Hope this helps, and happy hydrating!  Top 10 Ridiculous Bottles on the Market Today What is the Most Ridiculous Water Bottle?The water bottle industry is incredibly competitive, which leads to many brands looking for sometimes ridiculous ways to set themselves apart. But as with any new innovation, sometimes you get an iPod, and other times you get a Google Glass. So with each bottle in this video, I'll rate them as:
And don't worry, because there's something for everyone on this list, whether you want to be impressed or get a laugh. And whether you want something for a child, signifcant other, or just new for yourself. Amazon Associates Disclosure BottlePro is part of the Amazon Associates Program. If you make a purchase using a link, we earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you! Video of the Most Ridiculous BottlesWe also cover this in a YouTube video if you'd prefer to watch the recap and see some of the bottles in action! #10: Owala (Crazy Colors) Owala Bottle with Ridiculous Colors Let's start at number 10 with one bottle you may have heard from recently, Owala. They've really made a name for themselves within the last year or two, and a big reason is because of the FreeSip lid, which is a combination straw and chug spout. But the real eye-catcher is the colors, which are straight up ridiculous. It's like walking walking into a paint store, they ask what color you want, and you say yes. But, it's clear this is something a lot of people love, and you've even seen that influence spread to other brands like Stanley and Hydro Flask who in the past had more traditional color options. They do have an all-black option I'd prefer and I can recognize that other people love the funky colors, and I also can appreciate the lid design. From a functionality standpoint, it's honestly my favorite straw lid right now. So for those reasons, I'm calling Owala ridiculously cool. Price: $32.99 for a 32oz #9: FlasKap (Hidden Flask) FlasKap Bottle with Hidden Flask At number 9 is FlasKap, and Don Draper would be a fan of this one. It looks like a regular 32oz bottle, but in reality it's a 26oz bottle with a separate 6oz one inside. The lid lets you choose whether you drink from the main bottle, the smaller one, or mix both together. It's pretty clear what the intended use case is, so if you're out enjoying golf, a tailgate, or the beach and want to be a little more discreet about your beverage choices, this is a good option. I'm also going with ridiculously cool on this one. Price: $58.48 for a 32oz #8: Litflask (Detachable Bluetooth Speaker) Litflask Bottle with Bluetooth Speaker At number 8 is Litflask, which was on Oprah's favorite things list for 2024. It has a built-in but detachable bluetooth speaker, so it's one to consider if you're a fan of music. Apparently it can connect to other Litflasks, so you could make your own little surround sound concert. It even has a microphone so you can call someone, and if you'd told me 10 years ago someone could call you through your bottle I'd have called you crazy. The speakers are kind of cool, but the calling option seems unnecessary. For me this one's just ridiculously OK. $99 for a 20oz #7: air up (Scent-Based Flavors) air up vs an Amazon Knockoff Most times when you add flavor to water, you either add fruit or some kind of sweetner like how Cirkul's flavor pods work. Air up is different. They also have pods that go in the lid, but instead of releasing artificial sweeteners that you taste, they release a scent when water passes through the pod whenever you take a sip. There's a very clear scientific link in you brain between what you smell and what you taste. It's the same reason why you don't taste anything if you pinch your nose when you're eating. So while this bottle doesn't use technology in the traditional sense, I'm including here because of the cool science behind how it works. But at the same time, I've seen a lot of reviews about how it's not the best drinking experience. With a combination of bad reviews but a cool concept, I'll settle for ridiculously OK. $49.99 for a 22oz #6: Hidrate Spark Pro (Hydration Coach) Hidrate Spark Pro Bottle for Hydration Tracking Number 6 is Hidrate Spark Pro, and if you're a fan of data and tracking progress, this is a good option because it's basically a hydration coach. It connects to an app on your phone, and it has a built-in sensor that knows when you take a sip. This lets you more easily track your fluid intake throughout the day, and there are whole bunch of LED lights that flash on and off with reminders whenever you haven't had a drink in awhile. I'm certainly a fan of improving hydration habits, but I'm personally not sure about hooking my bottle up to a tracking app. For me, this is just ridiculously OK. $56 for a 21oz #5: LARQ (UV Sanitizing) LARQ Bottle UV Sanitizing Light in Lid Number 5 is one I've shown before, and that's LARQ. The thing this bottle has going for it is a built-in UV light in the lid, and you can easily charge and use the UV light to quickly sanitize your bottle from bacteria and viruses. This bottle really made a splash in 2021 when it was on Shark Tank and received the highest valuation of any company up to that point. It's worth noting that it doesn't have a filter and just helps against viruses and bacteria, but with so many questions about water quality nowadays, sometimes having that extra piece of mind is worth the investment. It certainly qualifies as ridiculously cool in my book. $118 for a 25oz #4: Vitaloop (Built-In Filter Pump) Vitaloop Bottle with Built-In Filter and Pump I've talked quite a bit before about filters, including Lifestraw's accessory, Brita's straw bottle, and GRAYL's French-press style filter bottle. But they're all a little tricky to use, either because they require quite a bit of suction to pull water through the straw or they take a lot of force to press water through the filter like iwth GRAYL. Vitaloop has a pretty intruguing design that seems to solve these issues because it has a built in filter pump system. Just press a button, and the pump moves water through the filter to clean it. I'm going to be testing this bottle out in person in 2025, so this is more of an introduction. But I love the concept. Definitely a ridiculously cool bottle as long as it works as well as advertised. $99 for a 17oz #3: Vejo (Blender Bottle) Vejo Bottle with Built-In Blender Number 3 on the list is Vejo, and this is a bottle gym rats, health freaks, and boat drinks. It has a built-in blender, which lets you press a button to easily stir up your favorite protein powder mix much better than a traditional shaker bottle would. You can also use it for juices or any other drink that needs mixing. So whether you're looking for a healthy juice cleanse or a boat drink, this could be a good option to consider. Because it fills an interesting niche, I'm going to go with ridiculously cool. $69.99 for a 12oz #2: Echo Go+ (Hydrogen Water) Echo Go+ Hydrogen Water Bottle At number 2 is the Echo Go+ Hydrogen water bottle. With this one you push a button and then the bottle generates hydrogen gas, and allegedly water with hydrogen gas in it has a range of health benefits. Now this is a tricky topic because it's really hard to know whether this is a real benefit. It's probably not unsafe, but does it really have all of these health benefits? I'm not so sure. It does look pretty cool, especially if you're a fan of bubbles. But given what I know right now, I'm going to go with ridiculously bad mainly because most of what I've seen about hydration water look very scammy. But I'm planning to dive deeper into this subject next year on my new series about hydration facts and myths, so I'll update this later if hydration water looks legit. $199.99 for a 10oz #1: Fracsco (Bottle with LiDAR Sensor) Fracsco Bottle with LiDAR Sensor in Lid And number 1 is this bottle by the company Fracsco. I stumbled across this one while researching for this video, and it's kind of wild. It seems like a sup'ed up version of the Hidrate Spark Pro in that it lets you track your hydration habits, but it also tells you the time, weather, water temperature, water level, and even apparently lets you track your BMI. It sports a really unique look that some people will love and others will hate, but it will definitely stand out either way. And the price tag stands out too because this bottle is on sale for $240. But the real reason why I'm including it at #1 is because of what's in the lid. LiDAR stands for light detection and ranging, and it's kind of like using light in the same way that sound is used for sonar. You might have seen it mentioned a few months ago when there was news about LiDAR surveys being used to find hidden Mayan ruins. Well, this bottle has a LiDAR sensor in the lid. By measuring the reflection time it can detect and record the water level in the app so you can have a detailed breakdown of your water bottle's volume throughout the day. I'm all for cool water bottles, but for me this one just went way over the top and qualifies for ridiculously bad. But hey, if you've been craving a bottle with a built-in LiDAR sensor, this could be your new best friend. $239.99 for a 17oz  What is the Best Water Bottle? What is the Best Bottle?If you're wondering what is the best water bottle on the market today, you're not alone. The water bottle market is incredibly saturated (pun intended), so there's a lot to consider. Well, I've collected 31 bottles over the years for this business, so today I'm going to reveal my full collection to help you find the best bottle for your situation. What's Next?
Video Review: What is the Best Water Bottle? (31 Tested!)We also cover this in a YouTube video if you'd prefer to watch the recap! Good Accessories for Most Large BottlesWhether you go with Owala, Hydro Flask, YETI, Stanley, or anything else, these are our three most popular recommended accessories for any large reusable bottle.
Part One: Recommended Bottles by UseDifferent bottles are better for different situations, so here let's take a look at various uses to see which bottle is the best option. Scroll down to Part Two to read more about any particular brand or bottle. Best Bottle for Everyday, All-Around Use These are the two bottles I find myself going back to most regularly when I'm not deliberately testing a different one. They each have a great combination of features that make them amazing choices for everyday use.
Best Bottle for Value Best Bottle for Hiking
Best Bottle for Sports
Best Bottle for Driving
Best Bottle for Road Trips Any of the bottles listed under "Best Bottle for Driving" are good options here, but I'd also consider having a 2nd larger bottle on hand for refills.  Hydro Flask Growler Hydro Flask Growler
Best Bottle for Home or Office
Best Bottle for Clumsy People Best Bottle for Iced Water
Best Bottle for Fruit Infusing
Best Bottle for Tea Infusing  Steepware Infusers Steepware
Best Bottle for Limiting Plastic Contact
Best Bottle for Easy Cleaning
Best Bottle for Sanitizing Water
Best Straw Lid
Best Chug Lid Best Sip Lid  Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip Hydro Flask Flex Sip
Many people prefer YETI's Hotshot because it has fewer pieces and you can drink from any side, which are both good points. But it's not my personal favorite because it does not have a handle and is more difficult to open and close because of how the piece you twist is recessed below the rim of the lid. With Hydro Flask's design, you can grab the outside of the lid and twist it which is just easier, and this is one of those small differences that you probably wouldn't notice unless you tried both side-by-side. Part Two: Rapid-Fire Review of All 31 BottlesMost are vacuum insulated stainless steel around 32 ounces in size, but there are some different types of bottles and sizes mixed in. They're in no particular order. 1 of 31: Owala FreeSip
2 of 31: Stanley Quencher
3 of 31: YETI Rambler
4 of 31: Cirkul
5 of 31: Hydro Flask 32oz Flex Straw
6 of 31: Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip
7 of 31: Hydro Flask 24oz Flex Straw
8 of 31: Hydro Flask 32oz Trail Series
9 of 31: Hydro Flask 64oz Growler
10 of 31: S'well 25oz
11 of 31: Klean Kanteen Classic 40oz
12 of 31: Klean Kanteen TKWide 32oz
13 of 31: Takeya 32oz
14 of 31: Nalgene 32oz
15 of 31: Healthy Human 32oz Stein
16 of 31: Healthy Human 21oz Curve 17 of 31: Camelbak Chute Mag 32oz
18 of 31: ThermoFlask 32oz
19 of 31: Iron Flask 40oz
20 of 31: Ozark Trail 32oz
21 of 31: FJbottle 32oz
22 of 31: EcoVessel 32oz
23 of 31: Steepware 22oz
24 of 31: Vesmoon 32oz
25 of 31: RevoMax
26 of 31: Zulu Ace
27 of 31: Stanley Classic Thermos
28 of 31: Otiem Copper
29 of 31: Brita Filter Bottle
30 of 31: GRAYL Filter Bottle
31 of 31: LARQ UV Bottle
 Are YETI Ramblers Overrated? Are YETI Rambler Bottles Overrated?(7 minute read time) There's no doubt that many people love YETI products, but their bottles cost a fortune. This has contributed to YETI's drinkware category grossing over $1 billion dollars in revenue in 2023). But why are so many people so passionate about YETI Ramblers, and are they actually overrated? Today let's take an honest look at YETI to see what's good, what's bad, if they're worth the steep price, and what are good alternatives. What's Next:
Amazon Associates Disclaimer: This post contains links to products. As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission if you purchase after clicking a link. It doesn't cost you anything extra, and it really helps. Thank you! Video Review: Are YETI Rambler Bottles Worth It?We also cover this in a YouTube video if you'd prefer to watch the recap! What is a "YETI Rambler?" What isn't? All of these are technically "Ramblers" First things first, it's important to know what type of YETI Rambler you're talking about. Rambler is their branding for basically anything that holds a drink and is made of stainless steel. These include a standard bottle, tumbler, tumbler with a handle, stackable lowball, stackable cup, mug, colster (insulation sleeve for soda or beer cans), cockstail shaker, wine chiller, gallon jug, french press, and even a bucket. All of these products are included in YETI's Rambler series, but notably their newer plastic bottles are branded separately as their Yonder series. Focus of this Post - YETI Rambler Bottle To keep this post from running too long, I'm going to focus on their Rambler bottles with vertical walls because those are the closest to the other bottles I usually talk about on this channel. YETI Rambler Bottle SizesWhat's Good about YETI Rambler Bottles?Durability YETI's biggest differentiator is their durability. It feels like the bottles and lists are made with thicker materials compared to other brands like Hydro Flask, which makes them much more dent resistent and less prone to breaking. In this recent article on CNN, the writer compared YETI and Owala and mentioned how they did a 4' drop test and the YETI came out relatively unscathed. Now I did a similar drop test with a different bottle recently on my video about dents and insulation, but I don't have as much money as CNN so I haven't cut open a YETI or done a drop test with mine to confirm this yet so I'll refer to their drop tests as proof of YETI's durability.  YETI's durability Branding YETI's durability ties into another benefit, which is YETI's branding. They have one of the most powerful brands in the water bottle industry, and ever since their start with coolers, YETIs have been defined by high priced but durable products. These two factors are baked into their brand identity which extends to their water bottles as well. Many people think of YETIs as being more rugged and geared towards men compared to Stanley tumblers which tend to be associated with women, though these are certainly stereotypes. All I'm saying though is that both of them have passionate customers who will buy their products just for the logo, so they're not really as different as you might think. Even if your uncle Bob says he just got his YETI tumbler for the insulation, let's be honest, he got it for the branding too.  YETI's branding Color Options There are plenty of colors to choose from. As of today, there are 39 colors available with their 18 ounce size!  Color Options for YETI Rambler Bottle (18oz) Wide Mouth Opening and Lids It's helpful that the Rambler bottles have a wider mouth diameter than brands like Hydro Flask because this makes it easier to add ice. There are also 5 lids that fit any of their Rambler bottle sizes, so you have a good range of options. I like that their chug and straw lids have wide handles that fit 3 larger fingers like mine, which is why they market it as their TripleHaul lid. This is a lot better than some bottles like Owala that have a narrower handle design. I also did a deep-dive last year that goes over each one in more detail (minus the original standard twist-off lid, which seems to have been replaced by the Chug lid as the "standard" option. Here's a link to that post if you'd like to check it out.  YETI's lids Insulation (Sort Of) One of the most common benefits you'll hear YETI-lovers praising is the insulation. It's true that dual-wall vacuum insulation is better than a non-insulated bottle like their Yonder series. From what I've seen, any bottle with dual-wall vacuum insulation is going to be good enough for the average user for most days of regular use. However, it's worth noting that YETI did not have the best results in a few insulation tests I've done using hot water and measuring the drop over a 4 hours period. I even repeated the test a few times against Ozark Trail, Walmart's brand that sells for $12, and Ozark Trail beat YETI every time. It's not that much different and honestly either one is going to insulate water fine for most people over the course of a normal day, but anyone claiming that YETI has the best insulation because it has the highest price doesn't know what they're talking about.  Insulation Results from my Dual-vs-Triple Insulation Test (click image for link to that post) What's Good about YETI Rambler Bottles?So YETI clearly has a lot of good things going for it, and that's helped them build a passionate and devoted fan base. But like I always say, there's no perfect bottle for every person and every situation, and YETI is certainly not exempt. So let's look now at why you may not want to buy a YETI Rambler bottle. Cost The most obvious drawback is the cost. Unless you like to brag about how much money you can afford to spend, the steep purchase price with most YETI products is one of it's biggest negatives. In fact, if you were to purchase every single item and size in their Rambler line (including items like the bucket), you'd easily spend over $1000. Some of that is because they have a lot of products, but let's be honest, charging $150 for a bucket feels like price gouging because they know they have a strong brand and many people will swallow the high price just to complete their YETI collection.  YETI's cost Sub-Par Lids This is certainly an opinion that not everyone shares, but for me, the lid options are underwhelming.
What is the Best YETI Lid? I would go as far as saying the best YETI lid isn't made by YETI. This one called SmartKap is inspired by Takeya's awesome chug lid, which has a connected spout cap and a good handle. It's the one I've been using the most with my YETI because it's so much more functional and easy to use, and while it doesn't feel as hefty at the YETI lids, it's held up fine so far for me. Weight I mentioned before how a benefit is that these bottles are so durable, but the downside is that they're a lot heavier so they're not a good option if you're going on a hike or long walk where weight is more important. This also compounds the issue with some of their lids not having handles.  YETI's Magdock lid (no handle) Plastic Contact Under Lid Every year, more and more people are looking to avoid plastic contact with their water as much as possible. Most lids on the market today have plastic underneath, including all of YETI's lids. So if you're looking to avoid plastic contact with your water entirely, please note that YETI is not a good choice because all of their lids have plastic underneath. Check out this post to learn about other bottle options that avoid plastic contact with your water (stainless steel under the lid).  YETI's Chug lid (plastic underneath both lid pieces) Ridiculous Marketing and Branding at Times YETI is a branding titan, and they are experts at making sure every aspect of their image is curated to make them seem like the premium and most advanced bottles on the market to make them seem worth the high price. But in my opinion, this over-the-top branding can sometimes go too far. One example is YETI's Over-The-Nose Technology. It was basically their way of promoting how they made the bottle opening half an inch wider than bottles like Hydro Flasks. They even included this cheap-looking graphic to show it.  YETI's Marketing (Over-The-Nose Technology) That's all fine and good I guess, but then they stopped selling the only lid that actually required you to unscrew the top all the way off to drink from the bottle that way. So now is it Under-The-Nose Technology? I don't know, but what I do know is that YETI scrubbed references of that technology from their website and listings when they stopped selling that lid, though you can still find it referenced on YETI's EU site. Yes, this is a nit-picky thing to mention, but in my opinion, trying to push something like this as "technology" is more of an insult to their customers' intelligence. Summary: Who Should Buy a YETI Rambler Bottle?So how does this all balance out and should you buy a YETI Rambler, or are they overrated? Well honestly, it depends on your situation. Yes, they are the most durable bottles out there, so for people who work in industries like construction where your bottle could take a beating or if you're prone to denting bottles and want to stop having to buy new ones, it could be a good investment. And if you like the brand and can afford YETI's prices, by all means go for it. The bottle will last you forever if you take good care of it. But for most people, including anyone who works in an office or at home, getting a YETI is like getting a King Ranch to haul mulch once a year. Yes it looks great and you can show it off, but you probably don't really need it and paid way too much. My tendency is to look for the functionality you get compared to the price you pay, and I personally don't put a lot of value in branding. So with that perspective and from what I've personally seen, my opinion is that YETIs are overrated and you'll pay more but you'll get less. What are Good Alternatives to YETI?
 Why are Owala Bottles Popular, and Are They Actually Good? Are Owala Water Bottles Worth the Hype?(5 minute read time) Today let's look at a relative newcomer to the market, Owala. With 42,000 reviews averaging 4.7 stars on Amazon, it's clear there are a ton of people who love this bottle, and in fact it's been the most common brand I've seen in comments on our videos when people suggest which bottles I should check out next. So today let's take a deeper look at Owalas to see what's good, what's bad, and whether the hype is deserved. What's Next:
Video Review of Owala BottlesWe also cover this in a YouTube video if you'd prefer to watch the recap! Owala FreeSip Bottle SizesAs an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission if you purchase after clicking a link. It doesn't cost you anything extra, and it really helps. Thank you! What Is Good About Owala Bottles?What is Owala's FreeSip Lid? First, let's look at the good side of Owala bottles. The most common feature you'll hear people talk about is the combination straw and chug lid, which is trademarked as their FreeSip lid and made Time Magazine's list of 200 of the best inventions for 2023. The ability to sip when you want a little water and chug when you want more is the main differentiator compared to other bottles that typically make you pick one or the other.  Owala's FreeSip Lid Ergonomics It's ergonomically designed around your mouth's shape, which doesn't sound important and is something you probably never would have thought about before trying it, but once you use Owala, it's hard to look at traditional straw bottles with those pivot-style rectangular spouts the same.  Owala's Ergonomic Spout Easy Sipping But the best part of this combination lid is the chug opening, but not for the reason you would expect. Most straw lids have a rotating spout that has a little plastic pin that goes into a little vent seal, so when you rotate open the spout, the vent opens to allow you to more easily take sips from the straw. The following two pictures are of Hydro Flask's Flex Straw and original straw lids. Both are similiar to most straw lids on the market because they have the plastic pin that goes into a small vent seal. The problem is that these types of lids still have a very small air vent, so the airflow is constricted and doesn't equalize as easily when you take a sip, making it a little more difficult and sometimes cause wheezing or popping noises.
The chug opening in Owala's design acts as a wide open vent, which makes it ridiculously easy to take a sip of water. This is the main reason why I found myself exclusively using the straw side because it's so easy to drink from, and I'd be willing to bet that 90% of people do the same thing.  Owala's Chug Opening Doubles as a Vent Easy Cleaning and Prevents Dirt on the Drinking Surface The straw is easier to clean completely in all of its nooks and crannies, which is something that straw lids with rotating spouts are notoriously bad about. With traditional lids like in the next picture, you have to pop off the rotating spout to be able to clean the seal underneath, so many people don't do this often and some nasty buildup can occur. One notable exception is Hydro Flask's Flex Sip lid which as a silicone insert that essentially replaces that seal and makes it easier to clean. But there are still areas of that lid that are not possible to clean unless you pop off the spout. And notably, removing the spout can deform the connections a little over time, leading to a loose fit.  Traditional Straw Lids have Water Contact Points that are Difficult to Reach With Owala, the straw is fixed, so there isn't a rotating spout with a pivot point to clean around. This makes it much easier to clean everything. The silicone seal under the lid cover is also removable to make it even easier to clean. The lid cover goes over the entire spout area and is spring-loaded to open when you push this button, which means you won't have to touch the surface that your mouth will go on to open it up.  All of Owala's Water-Contact Surfaces are Easily Accessible Leak-Free The vent seal with pivot-style straw lids is a common leak point, but Owala avoids that issue. From my experience, this straw lid has been less likely to leak compared to traditional straw lids. Reasonable Price The standard price is very reasonable, and you can buy a 32 ounce bottle for $34. This contrasts with YETI or Hydro Flask who regularly charge $40 to $50 for a similar volume bottle.  Owala's Pricing (May 2024) Lead-Free More recently, Owala got another popularity bump compared to Stanley because their bottles are completely lead free, which is something Stanley and most bottles on the market can't say because of a lead-based solder that seals the vacuum. Practically-speaking the lead isn't a danger unless your bottle is damaged enough to expose the area between the two stainless steel layers, but some people rest easier knowning there isn't lead anywhere so it's worth mentioning.  Owala Doesn't Use a Lead-Based Solder Insulation (Sort-Of) The bottle also comes with triple-layer insulation, which includes both a vacuum seal to prevent conduction heat transfer and a copper layer to prevent radiation heat transfer. But while this is a benefit over non-insulated bottles, this reason alone isn't enough to consider Owala over other brands with vacuum seals, regardless of whether they are triple-layered or not. I did our standard 4 hour hot water test twice, and the results showed that Owala actually underperformed compared to similar bottles, even if they didn't have triple layer insulation. What's Bad about Owala Bottles?But like I say all the time on this blog, there is no perfect product for every person and every situation. Owala is no exception, and there are some negatives to be aware of. Handle For one, the hard plastic, two-finger handle is not great. For such an ergonomically-focused spout, the handle was really a disappointment for me because it really doesn't feel good when you're holding it. And the way I use and transport my bottle, the fact that the handle is also a lock for the lid cover is more annoying than useful, though I can see how that would be a benefit for people who would throw the bottle into a purse or a bag.
Harder to Close The lid can also take a decent amount of force to get it to close compared to some other types of lids, but is some ways that's good because it's necessary for a good watertight seal. This is certainly not a big deal, but it was noticeable.  You Have to Press more Firmly to Close Compared to some other Straw Lids Exposed Plastic under the Lid There is also exposed plastic under the lid and in the straw, so your water will come into contact with plastic. It's worth noting that these plastics are BPA free and allegedly safe by today's standards, but given the history of plastics and how sometimes new issues come up after years of research, I don't fault anyone for wanting to avoid plastic altogether.  No Available Options for All-Stainless Steel Water Contact Points Dirt Magnet One other very nit-picky issue is that I found the grippy, textured area around the flip cover to be a dirt magnet, so while you should always stay on top of cleaning the inside of your bottle regularly regardless of which one you own, you might find yourself scrubbing this part of your Owala more frequently too.  This Flexible, Grippy Part Attracted Dirt More Easily Colors (Sort Of) And lastly, this may be an unpopular opinion, but for me, I can't stand most of the color combinations. To me, it looks like they blindfolded someone and told them to throw darts at a board with different colors. It's like walking into a Home Depot, they ask what paint color you want, and you say "yes." That may be a little harsh and many people love the combos. That's perfectly OK! But most of the colors are a little too funky for my taste. Then again, I'm fully aware that I've never been accused of being a stylish trend-setter, and I'm willing to concede that the colors are a big draw for many people.  Owala's Color Combos Summary: Are Owala Bottles Worth It?Overall, Owala really does have a solid product offering. The FreeSip lid is one of those things that makes you wonder why it wasn't invented before, and the benefits far outweight the negatives in my opinion. So if you're in the market for a straw lid, consider giving Owala a try. There's a good chance you won't want to go back to traditional straw lids every again.  What are the Best Bottles and Accessories for Infusing Water with Fruit, Tea, and Coffee? What are the Best Bottles for Infusing?If you're like me, you get bored drinking regular, plain water all day. I used to be addicted to sodas, so switching from extremely sugary drinks to water was a big shift. The thing that helped me the most was adding my own flavors. Now, technically sodas are flavored water with carbonation and you can also add flavor with enhancers like Mio, but for the purposes of this video I'm calling flavored water anything that gets its taste from more natural sources like fresh fruit, loose-leaf tea, or coffee grounds. And at the end, I'll also give my take on two bottle brands that have more recently taken social media by storm, Cirkul and air up. (spoiler alert, it might not be positive) Video Review: Which Bottles are Best for Infusing?We also cover this in a YouTube video if you'd prefer to watch the recap! Links to Products: As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission if you purchase after clicking a link. It doesn't cost you anything extra, and it really helps. Thank you! Adding Fruit Directly into Your Bottle (No Infuser)First, I have to mention the most obvious way to flavor your water, and that's simply by adding fruit like lemons, cucumber, mint, or a whole range of other flavors directly into your bottle! This works well enough, but the problem is that you ideally would have some way to strain it so it's not a good option with most bottles. The good news is that more and more bottles are coming to market with built-in stainless steel strainers at the lid. For stainless steel, EcoVessel is one brand that's been around awhile, and for glass, Mayu is a brand I've mentioned a few times on this channel. Just add your fruit, snap the strainer into place, and you're good to go. It's also worth noting that these strainers double as ice-blockers, which can be a life-saver when driving in particular.
Bottles with Built-In InfusersSome brands take the built-in strainer a step further by having a larger strainer that screws into the smaller one, which makes it a better option for tea or coffee. It's also a good option if you want your fruit to be contained instead of free-floating. Notably, none of the "major" brands that I'm aware of currently have bottles with built-in infusers, including Stanley, YETI, and Hydro Flask. We would not be surprised if they come out with options within a few years, but for now you'll have to go with lesser-known brands or add-on accessories (see further down the page). The first brand I tried with a larger infuser was Steepware, but honestly I'm not too much of a fan of this bottle. It did the worst by far on an insulation test, and the handle isn't anything to write home about. A much better all-around option is a new brand I came across called Vesmoon. Now to be clear, there do appear to be other similar bottles with the same size strainer coming to market, but this is the one I've tested in person and I'm a pretty big fan. Unfortunately, Vesmoon was not available for purchase as of 6/2/2024. This is sometimes a problem with brands that are smaller and newer because the water bottle market is incredibly competitive But there are other options on the market today, and these ones by Hemli and Akvati look to be comparable. Stanley Bottle with a Fruit InfuserNow I'm not a huge fan of Stanleys, but I recognize many people love them. Unfortunately, Stanley does not have a fruit infuser bottle option at this time, though a good alternative is from a brand called Fimibuke. It's essentially a Stanley knockoff with a large built-in infuser for one third the price, and while I can't say much about the company or brand itself, the design and functionality look pretty solid. Best Bottle Infusers for Fruit InfusingLlet's say you're in the market for an add-on infuser because you don't want to buy an entire new bottle. Well, there are a few options you can look at. Let's start with ones for fruit, which generally have larger openings that work well for fruit but not for loose leaf tea or coffee grounds.
Best Bottle Infusers for Tea and Coffee InfusingNow each of the add-on infusers I mentioned is made with either plastic or silicone, so let's look at some stainless steel ones, which can be used for fruit but are also better for tea and coffee because they have a finer mesh strainer.
Bottles with Flavor Pods (Cirkul and Air Up)And finally, let's take a look at the two elephants in the room that have taken social media by storm recently, Cirkul and air up. They each have flavor pods, but they work very differently.
 Which Bottles Completely Avoid Plastic Contact With Your Water? Which Bottles Avoid Plastic Completely?Today we're exploring the question, which bottles completely avoid plastic contact with your water? You might think going with a stainless steel bottle like a Hydro Flask, YETI, or Stanley would be fine, but the vast majority of bottles still have exposed plastic under the lid. So what can you do? The good news is that there are an increasing number of brands with options that completely avoid plastic on the inside. Water Bottle Options Covered Next that Avoid Plastic Contact with Water: #1: Hydro Flask's Stainless Steel Flex Cap #2: Healthy Human #3: Klean Kanteen #4: EcoVessel #5: Glass Options (Mayu and Sunkey) Video Review: Which Bottles Avoid Plastic?We also cover this in a YouTube video if you'd prefer to watch the recap! Links to Products: As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission if you purchase after clicking a link. It doesn't cost you anything extra, and it really helps. Thank you! Which Lid Styles Avoid Plastic?As a general rule-of-thumb, you're typically going to have to use the type of lid that you have to screw all the way on and off to take a sip ("Standard" type shown below). Each brand has a different name for it, but you'll normally need to avoid straw, spout, and sip style lids. They have more moving parts and connections that make it more difficult to make a lid that's completely stainless steel on the bottom.  Common Water Bottle Lid Styles Option #1 - Hydro Flask's Stainless Steel Flex Cap ("Flex Steel")
 Hydro Flask's Flex Cap vs Stainless Steel Flex Cap ("Flex Steel") Option #2: Healthy Human
 Stainless Steel Under Healthy Human Lid Option #3: Klean Kanteen
Option #4: EcoVessel
 EcoVessel's Chug Style Lid Option #5: Glass Bottles by Mayu and SunkeyThat's it for what I've seen from stainless steel bottles, but what about glass? Lifefactory is one of the biggest names in glass bottles, but as far as I can tell all of their lids have exposed plastic. So you'll have to look at some other brands like Mayu or Sunkey. These names don't carry the same weight as one like Hydro Flask, but I woudn't be surprised if a glass bottle brand takes over the social media landscape in the next few years in the same way that Hydro Flask, YETI, and now Stanley have over the last decade. It just seems like more and more people are looking to avoid stainless steel too, especially after all the recent media attention about lead. |
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