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What is the Best Filter Bottle? Brita's Straw vs GRAYL's Press vs Vitaloop's Pump

4/30/2025

0 Comments

 
What is the Best Filter Bottle?
What is the Best Filter Bottle?
(10 minute read)

What is the Best Bottle with a Built-In Filter?

​There are a growing number of water bottles with built-in filters on the market, and there are plenty good reasons to have one, including camping, travel, emergencies like natural disasters, or if you just for some extra peace of mind.  In this post, you'll see three very different options: Brita's straw filter bottle, GRAYL's press filter bottle, and Vitaloop's pump filter bottle.

​You'll see:
  1. how each one works
  2. which contaminants they're designed to remove
  3. the cost to buy one as well as continuing cost of filters
  4. a filter test

​So let's dive right in and find out which is the best filter bottle for you.

Sneak Peek Summary

Brita (Straw)
Brita Filter Bottle (32oz)
Brita Filter Bottle (32oz)
Good:
More affordable
Decent filtering

Bad:
Filter isn't as good as others

​
Best for:
Everday use for some added peace-of-mind and better tasting water

​
See Brita
GRAYL (Press)
GRAYL GeoPress (24oz)
GRAYL GeoPress (24oz)
Good:
Great filtering
Manual (no power needed)

Bad:
Expensive
Awkward to use in public

Best for:
Backpacking (lightest)
Natural Disasters
Worst-case scenarios
​
See GRAYL
Vitaloop (Pump)
Vitaloop (17oz)
Vitaloop (17oz)
Good:
Great filtering
Powered (easier & effective)

Bad:
Expensive
Trickier to clean

Best for:
Travel for business or vacations
General everyday use for filtering that's more effective than Brita and easier than GRAYL 
See Vitaloop

Video: Which Filter Bottle is the Best?

​​​​​​​​​​​​​We also cover this info in a YouTube video if you'd prefer to watch the recap that way.

Amazon Associates Disclosure
​BottlePro is part of the Amazon Associates Program.  There are a few products linked in this article, and if you make a purchase using one, we earn a small commission at no cost to you.  Thank you!

What Comes with Each Filter Bottle?

How Brita's Filter Bottle Works​
First, let's look at how each one works, starting with Brita.  This is the simplest option because it just has a bottle, a lid, a straw, and the filter.  To use it, you just press the filter into this silicone fitting, then slide the straw over the filter and lock it into the lid by twisting to the right.  Then you just sip like any other straw lid.
What Comes with Brita's Filter Bottle?
What Comes with Brita's Filter Bottle?
How GRAYL's Filter Bottle Works​
GRAYL is different because it has a press-style filter.  This bottle comes with an outer plastic sleeve, an inner plastic bottle, the lid, and the filter cartridge.  To use it, you scoop up some water in this outer sleeve, then you take this inner bottle with the filter on the bottom and press it down into the sleeve.  This forces water through the filter, and these one-way valves keep the clean water inside.  It takes quite a bit of effort to force it down, so you'll probably need to put the bottle on the ground and press on it like they show in these pictures.
What Comes with GRAYL's Filter Bottle?
What Comes with GRAYL's Filter Bottle?
How Vitaloop's Filter Bottle Works​
Vitaloop on the other hand has a pump inside the lid to force water through the filter.  It consists of an outer metal sleeve on the lid, the lid that includes a spout and a large housing for the pump, an inner flexible plastic pouch that holds the untreated water, the outer hard plastic bottle that holds the clean water, and the filter cartrige.  To use this bottle, first you add water to the inner flexible pouch.  Push this button and take off the outer sleeve, then add water through this opening.  If you're dipping the bottle like in a stream or pond for example, angle the bottle like this so the inlet is below the spout.  Alternatively, you can unscrew the outer bottle and then unscrew the inner flexible pouch, then add water and screw it all back together.  When you push this button, the pump will activate and go through a filter cycle.  It moves water from the flexible pouch, through the filter, and into the hard outer plastic bottle.
What Comes with Vitaloop's Filter Bottle?
What Comes with Vitaloop's Filter Bottle?

Filter Test (Brita, GRAYL, and Vitaloop)

Now let's do a test.  I scooped some sandy dirt into a bin of water and stirred it up, then got about 16 ounce in this measuring cup.  Then I passed water through each filter.
Dirty water for filter test
Dirty water for filter test
For Brita, I used a syringe to pull water up the straw.  GRAYL and Vitaloop were used as directed.  Vitaloop is a little tricky to pour water into the opening on the side, so it's probably best to either submerge the bottle if you can while keeping the power button above water, or remove the flexible pouch and fill it up separately then reassemble it all.  Brita took awhile because of how I had to use a syringe, GRAYL was the fastest but it does take some effort, and Vitaloop starts after pressing this button for about 1 second, then it ran a pump cycle for about 45 seconds.

​Vitaloop had the least amount of uncleaned water left behind because Brita's straw doesn't reach all the way to the bottom, and GRAYL had more unfiltered water even after two filter presses.  
Filtering with Brita
Filtering with GRAYL
Filtering with Vitaloop
Visually, each one seemed to help a lot, and the filtered water with each one was much clearer than the starting water.
Filter Test Results
Filter Test Results
I used these water quality test strips to see if there was any kind of noticeable difference, and as far as I could tell, none of them were really any different.

Maybe Vitaloop was a little better on chlorine.

And it actually looks like GRAYL and Vitaloop are a little worse on manganese, but I think that's actually just discolored a little because some of the dye from zinc flowed down because I didn't keep the strips level enough during the 15 second wait time.

Either way, it's hard to tell any significant differences from these very basic tests.
Test Strip Results
Test Strip Results

Which Contaminants do Brita, GRAYL, and Vitaloop Remove?

What does Brita Remove?
​Brita uses an activated carbon filter, and the marketing around focuses on improving taste, as well as removing "chlorine and more."  I'm not sure what more is, and it also says "this is not a water purifier bottle."  I reached out to Brita to ask if they had any data on whether it removes things like PFAS or microplastics, but I never heard back so at this point I'm not sure.
What does GRAYL Remove?
GRAYL on the other hand has a much more robust filter.  It also has activated carbon like Brita, but it also has non-woven ceramic fibers with a high electropositive charge.  Their marketing shows it both as a filter and a purifier bottle that removes things like viruses, bacteria, heavy metals, and even things as small as PFAS chemicals, which are mind-blowingly small.

Check out this deep-dive video to learn more about those.

I reached out to GRAYL, and they sent me a summary of a test that showed the filter is effective at removing PFAS chemicals, so as far as I can tell, they've done their homework and have some data and tests to back up their claims.
What GRAYL Filters (from their listing)
What GRAYL Filters (from their listing)
What does Vitaloop Remove?
Vitaloop's filter uses activated carbon and multistage filtration, and because the pump pushes water through the filter at a consistent rate, that allegedly makes the filtering more reliable.  The filters are rated to remove a wide range of impurities, including basically all the same things as GRAYL like bacteria, heavy metals, and PFAS, which I was able to confirm because Vitaloop sent me the test results.

​They also show several of their tests on their website, and I certainly appreciate this level of due diligence and transparency.
What Vitaloop Filters (from their listing)
What Vitaloop Filters (from their listing)

What do Brita, GRAYL, and Vitaloop Cost? (including filters)

What does Brita Cost?
Brita is the least expensive option.  The 32oz stainless steel version costs $42 up-front, and they market how each filter lasts for 40 gallons, or about 2 months.  You can buy a 6-pack like this for $16 right now, so it's not really that expensive.

Summary:
Up Front: $42 (stainless steel version)
Annual: $16 (6-pack, on sale)
Brita (32oz)
Brita Straw Filter Bottle (32oz)
Brita Straw Filter Bottle (32oz)
See Brita Bottle
Brita Straw Filters
Brita 6-Pack Straw Filters
Brita 6-Pack Straw Filters
See Brita Filters
What does GRAYL Cost?
GRAYL on the other hand is a lot more.  Their 24oz GeoPress is their most popular bottle, and it costs $100 to get started.  The replacement cartriges are $30 each and last about 350 uses, or 65 gallons.  So assuming that a filter lasts you 3 month if we're comparing similar usage rates as Brita, your on-going annual cost-to-own is about $120.  If you're really bougie, you could also go for their titanium series bottles that get up over $200.

Summary:
Up Front: $100 (standard GeoPress)

Annual: $120 (4 filters, $30 each)
GeoPress (24oz)
GRAYL GeoPress Filter Bottle
GRAYL GeoPress Filter Bottle
See GeoPress Bottle
GeoPress Filter
GRAYL GeoPress Filter Cartridge
GRAYL GeoPress Filter Cartridge
See GeoPress Filter
What does Vitaloop Cost?
Vitaloop is on sale right now for $100, but its retail price is $140.  It's a newer brand, so I'm not entirely sure where the price will eventually level out, but it's definitely still an investment.  Each filter cartrige costs $30 and lasts up to 66 gallons, so it's comparable to GRAYL's GeoPress series.  Assuming you replace it every 3 months, your on-going annual cost-to-own will be about $120.

Summary:
Up Front: $100 (on sale)

Annual: $120 (4 filters, $30 each)
Vitaloop (17oz)
Vitaloop Filter Bottle
Vitaloop Filter Bottle
See Vitaloop Bottle
Vitaloop Filter
Vitaloop Filter Cartridge
Vitaloop Filter Cartridge
See Vitaloop Filter
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What is PFAS, and Which Filters and Bottles Remove It?

3/6/2025

0 Comments

 
What is PFAS, and Which Filters and Bottles Remove It?
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:
  • What are PFAS chemicals?
  • Are PFAS harmful?​
  • What does PFAS stand for?
  • Where does PFAS come from?
  • Why are PFAS chemicals called "forever chemicals?"
  • What are the current PFAS thresholds and regulations?
  • How does PFAS get into the water supply?
  • Which regions of the US have the worst PFAS contamination?
  • Are PFAS microplastics?

And importantly, what can you do about it?
  • Can PFAS be filtered out of water?
  • Which filters remove PFAS?
  • Which bottles remove PFAS?



What is PFAS?

What are PFAS Chemicals?
​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:
  • non-stick packaging and cookware
  • wrappers and take-out containers from some restaurants
  • stain-free clothing and carpets
  • factories and industrial sites where products containing PFAS chemicals were manufactured
  • firefighting foam that was commonly used at facilities like military bases

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.
Link to PFAS Cases and Settlements

​What are the Current PFAS Regulatory Limits and Thresholds?

What are PFAS Thresholds and Regulatory Limits?
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
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
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
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?

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:
  • decreased fertility
  • developmental delays in children
  • increased risk of some cancers
  • interference with your body's natural hormones
  • reduced immune system effectiveness
  • higher cholesterol

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
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:
  1. PFAS chemicals have bonds between carbon and fluorine atoms, which are some of the strongest bonds found in natural.  This makes PFAS chemicals very stable, long-lasting, and resistant to degradation.
  2. PFAS has a cumulative affect.  Because it does not break down easily, the chemicals can stay in your body or the environment for very long time periods, and further exposure continues to increase PFAS levels in your body.
​
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?

How does PFAS Get in 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?

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
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?

Where is the Worst PFAS in the US?
​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)
PFAS contamination map of the US (Environmental Working Group)
See Interactive Map
​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)
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?

Can you Remove PFAS, and Which Home Filter Systems Work?
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
APEC 5-Stage Under-Sink Reverse Osmosis
APEC 5-Stage Under-Sink Reverse Osmosis
APEC Under-Sink System
​I have this 5-stage system by APEC, and it's worked well so far.  They're certainly not cheap, but they're not a huge investment either if you're just getting an under-the-sink system for drinking water and cooking.

It takes a bit of effort and technical ability to install, so if you're not comfortable with doing that then add in the cost of a plumber.  But once it's set up, you just change some of the filters on a schedule.  Some are every 6-12 months, and others are every few years.

​If you have the budget, space, and technical ability to set this up, this kind of filter system is probably your best option.
See on Amazon
2-Stage Filters: Likely to Work
Aquasana 2-Stage Under-Sink Filter
Aquasana 2-Stage Under-Sink Filter
Aquasana
Two-stage filters are also good, and they are less expensive and bulky compared to APEC's 5-stage system.  That makes them a better fit as a budget or limited space option.  I'm assuming Duke's test referred to filter systems like this one by Aquasana.

It's worth noting that the article also mentions how they didn't test too many of these types of systems, so they didn't seem as certain about it.  But according to Aquasana's listing on Amazon, it does specifically mention that the filter works to remove PFAS.
See on Amazon
Countertop System: Proven to Work
Travel Berkey Filter
Travel Berkey Filter
Travel Berkey
 The Environmental Working Group which made that map from before also has a few filters they've tested that reduced PFAS completely or close to that.

They list this system by Travel Berkey as a good high-end option​ that removed 100% of PFAS in their tests.
See on Amazon
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.
Picture
Zerowater
Lower initial cost
See on Amazon
Picture
Epic Water
Longer filter life
See on Amazon

Which Bottles Filter Out and Remove PFAS?

Which Bottles 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
Brita Filter Bottle
Brita Filter Bottle
Brita's Insulated Bottle
Brita is one of the most well-known water filter companies, and they have this bottle with a built-in straw filter.  It uses activated carbon, so it potentially does help with PFAS according to the Duke University article.

​However, even if it does help some, it's unlikely to be as effective as other systems like reverse osmosis or some bottles you'll see next.

I reached out to Brita, but as of today I have not heard back.  I'll update this post when I do.
See on Amazon
Simple Modern Filter Bottle
Simple Modern Filter Bottle
Simple Modern's Insulated Bottle
This bottle is essentially the same as Brita, but in a more stylish design 

I reached out to Simple Modern to ask if the bottle has been tested to remove PFAS.  They responded within a day of my message and mentioned how the filter removes chlorine and particulates up to about 15 to 30 microns in size, but they "don't have any other information...regarding PFAS or microplastics."

So it was helpful and quick response in some ways, but ultimately inconclusive for PFAS.  Though based on the Duke University article, it's possible this may remove some PFAS.
See on Amazon
Two Bottles that are Proven to Remove PFAS
GRAYL's GeoPress Filter Bottle
GRAYL's GeoPress Filter Bottle
GRAYL's GeoPress
GRAYL has this press-style filter where you push down like a French-press and it forces water through a filter cartridge.

From their website FAQ section, it uses activated carbon like Brita and Simple Modern, but it also included non-woven ceramic fibers that have a high electropositive charge.

GRAYL responded within a day of my inquiry and provided the cover letter from a test.  I can't see the details like how much PFAS was filtered, but it says their UltraPress bottle passed the test for two of the most common PFAS chemicals.

​(UltraPress and GeoPress use the same type of filter)
See on Amazon
Vitaloop's Filter Pump Bottle
Vitaloop's Filter Pump Bottle
Vitaloop
Last but not least is this bottle by Vitaloop.  This bottle has a built-in filter pump, so it's a little easier to use than straw filters that can be restrictive and GRAYL's design that you have to press down on.

​They sent me a testing report that shows an almost full reduction in the two most common PFAS chemicals (PFOA and PFOS).

This bottle would certainly be easier to use discretely compared to GRAYL, which requires pushing it against the ground.
See on Amazon
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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What is the Best Water Bottle? (our Biggest Comparison Yet!)

9/30/2024

1 Comment

 
What is the Best Water Bottle?
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
  • Good accessories to have regardless of which bottle you go with
  • Part One: Giving my recommendations for the best (and worst) bottles for different uses, like value, hiking, and overall.
  • Part Two: Rapid-fire review of each bottle, including the main pros and cons.

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 Bottles

Whether you go with Owala, Hydro Flask, YETI, Stanley, or anything else, these are our three most popular recommended accessories for any large reusable bottle.
Brush Kit
Brush Kit
Bottle Brush Kit
There are a lot of brush kits on Amazon at this point, so feel free to shop around.  This is the one I have, and it has a range of brush sizes that work with any bottle.
See Brush Kit
Cleaning Tablets
Cleaning Tablets
Bottle Bright Tablets
I've tested these, and they work really well when cleaning out coffee and tea stains.  I also recommend using them roughly once per week during your deep cleaning routine.
See Cleaning Tablets
BottlePro Max Adapter
BottlePro Max Adapter
BottlePro Cup Holder Adapter
Bottles that are 24 ounces or less can fit in the majority of cup holders.  Bottles that are larger than that typically need an adapter, like our BottlePro Max.

A key difference is if you purchase a tumbler-style bottle, like a Stanley Quencher.  Tumblers are known for having tapered sides that are better able to fit in more cup holders.
See BottlePro Max

Part One: Recommended Bottles by Use

Different 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.
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Owala FreeSip
  • Dual straw/chug lid
  • Easy sipping for a straw lid (less air constriction)
  • Ergonomic (actually feels weirdly better)
  • Cover keeps the mouthpiece clean
See Owala
FJbottle 32oz
FJbottle 32oz
FJbottle
  • Has both a rigid handle and a built-in carrying strap
  • Magnetics keep the spout cap out of your face when sipping
  • Silicone grip pad on base
  • Comes with a brush to help you get started (though you'll probably want to upgrade to a different kit)
See FJbottle
Best Bottle for Value
Ozark Trail 32oz
Ozark Trail 32oz
Ozark Trail
  • Least-expensive stainless steel insulated bottle
  • Good handle
  • No-slip base
See Ozark Trail
Iron Flask Lids
Iron Flask Lids
Iron Flask
  • 3 lids included
See Iron Flask
ThermoFlask 2-Pack
ThermoFlask 2-Pack
ThermoFlask
  • One of the few brands that regularly offers 2-packs
  • 2 bottles and 4 lids included
See ThermoFlask
Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth
Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth
Nalgene
  • One of the least-expensive bottles
  • Extremely durable and won't dent
See Nalgene
Best Bottle for Hiking
Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth
Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth
Nalgene
  • Extremely lightweight
  • Durable and dent-resistant
  • Best if used with a carrying pouch or stashed in a bag because the lid tether isn't much of a handle
See Nalgene
Hydro Flask Trail Series
Hydro Flask Trail Series
Hydro Flask Trail Series
  • Lightest vacuum insulated bottle
  • Good handle
See Trail Series
FJbottle 32oz
FJbottle 32oz
FJbottle
  • Having both a rigid handle and a carrying strap makes it easier to bring with you on long hikes
  • Silicone grip pad on base
  • (If you'd like to add flavor and love the carrying strap, see Vesmoon in Part Two below)
See FJbottle
GRAYL Filter Bottle
GRAYL Filter Bottle
GRAYL Filter Bottle
  • This is a good option if you're going on a very long hike or backpacking trip and want to refill from a stream or other questionable water source
  • I tested this bottle, and it was one of the best options to filter out visible particulates
See GRAYL
Best Bottle for Sports
Takeya Actives
Takeya Actives
Takeya (Actives Series)
  • Good handle
  • Attached spout cover
  • Recommended: This lid style has a built-in ice blocker
See Takeya Actives
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Owala FreeSip
  • Dual straw/chug lid, so you can sip or chug depending on how much water you need
  • Easy sipping for a straw lid (less air constriction)
  • Ergonomic (actually feels weirdly better)
  • Cover keeps the mouthpiece clean
See Owala FreeSip
Best Bottle for Driving
Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip
Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip
Hydro Flask Flex Sip
  • Sip-style lids are the best for coffee or tea during a commute, and this is one my favorites
  • Good handle
  • Easy to know when the lid is opened or closed
See Hydro Flask
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Owala FreeSip
  • Straw lids are great for driving because it's easier to keep your eyes on the road
  • Owala's FreeSip is one of my favorite straw lid options
  • You will likely need a cup holder adapter like this one with 32oz or 40oz sizes
See Owala
Stanley Quencher Handle
Stanley Quencher Handle
Stanley Quencher
  • Straw lid
  • Tapered base fits in more cup holders
  • Side-mounted handle makes it easy to grab
See Stanley
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
Hydro Flask Growler
  • The large 64oz size makes it a good option for refilling a smaller bottle that you keep in your cup holder
  • However, this bottle is too large to be used as a stand-alone bottle for most people and most situations, especially when driving
  • YETI and other brands also have comparable "growler" sized bottles, so feel free to check those out
See Hydro Flask Growler
Best Bottle for Home or Office
Stanley Quencher Handle
Stanley Quencher Handle
Stanley Quencher
  • The big side-mounted handle makes it easy to grab when you're just walking from one room to another
  • The always-open straw makes it really easy to quickly take a sip (though be careful of it getting too dirty)
See Stanley
Brita Bottle Filter
Brita Bottle Filter
Brita Filter Bottle
  • I haven't tested many filter bottles yet, but of the ones I have, this is by far the easiest to use as an every-day bottle
  • It's a good option for extra assurance that you're drinking as clean of water as possible
See Brita
Best Bottle for Clumsy People
YETI Rambler Lid
YETI Rambler Lid
YETI Rambler
  • Extremely durable
  • Good handle
See YETI Rambler
Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth
Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth
Nalgene
  • Extremely lightweight
  • Durable and dent-resistant
  • If you somehow break it (not likely), this is an inexpensive bottle to replace
See Nalgene
Best Bottle for Iced Water
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Owala FreeSip
  • In general, straw lids are good options if you love sipping ice-cold water from your bottle without having to worry about any ice coming out
  • Owala is one of my favorite straw lid options right now
See Owala FreeSip
EcoVessel Strainer
EcoVessel Strainer
EcoVessel
  • One of EcoVessel's key features is a built-in strainer that serves as an ice blocker
  • Vesmoon is another option with a strainer, or you can look at Takeya's ice strainer lid
See EcoVessel
Best Bottle for Fruit Infusing
Vesmoon Infusers
Vesmoon Infusers
Vesmoon
  • This has the largest built-in strainer of any bottle I've tested
  • Good option to avoid plastic infusers
See Vesmoon
Picture
FlavorFuze Pod
  • This is our design, and we sized it to fit in nearly any wide-mouth bottle
  • Each comes with two lids.  One is sized to fit snugly in Hydro Flask wide mouths and act as a splash guard.  The other has a larger handle and is meant for drop-in infusing
See FlavorFuze Pod
Best Bottle for Tea Infusing
Steepware Infusers
Steepware Infusers
Steepware
  • This bottle does do a good job at what it was designed for, which is brewing tea
  • The bottle is the right size, and the infusers are also a good size to keep your loose-leaf tea contained while giving it more surface area to diffuse into your water
See Steepware
Best Bottle for Limiting Plastic Contact
Healthy Human Lid
Healthy Human Lid
Healthy Human (Stein or Curve)
  • Healthy Human is a great option to avoid plastic because their standard lids have stainless steel underneath, making sure your water touches as little plastic as possible
See Healthy Human
Picture
EcoVessel
  • EcoVessel is unique in that it's the only chug-style lid I've seen that avoids plastic contact under the lid
  • Both parts of the lid have either silicone or stainless steel contact points with your water, but not plastic
See EcoVessel
Best Bottle for Easy Cleaning
Zulu Ace
Zulu Ace
Zulu Ace
  • One of only a few bottles I'm aware of that has a removable bottom so you can clean it from both sides
See Zulu Ace
Owala FreeSip
Owala FreeSip
Owala FreeSip
  • Easiest straw lid to clean all surfaces where water touches the lid
  • Does not have a rotating spout, which is common in most other straw lids and is the most difficult part to clean
  • Easily-removable seal
See Owala FreeSip
Stanley Quencher
Stanley Quencher
Stanley Quencher
  • Largest opening on top, making it easier to clean without needing a bottle brush kit
See Stanley
Best Bottle for Sanitizing Water
Brita Bottle Filter
Brita Bottle Filter
Brita Filter Bottle
  • I haven't tested many filter bottles yet, but of the ones I have, this is by far the easiest to use as an every-day bottle​
See Brita
LARQ UV Bottle
LARQ UV Bottle
LARQ UV Bottle
  • Easy to use, but expensive
  • Requires charging
  • The UV kills bacteria and viruses, but it's not a filter bottle so it won't remove particulates
See LARQ
GRAYL Filter Bottle
GRAYL Filter Bottle
GRAYL Filter Bottle
  • Not convenient for an everyday bottle
  • Good for filtering particulates, ideally when hiking or backpacking
See GRAYL
Best Straw Lid
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Owala FreeSip
  • Dual straw/chug lid
  • Easy sipping for a straw lid (less air constriction)
  • Ergonomic (actually feels weirdly better)
  • Cover keeps the mouthpiece clean
See Owala FreeSip
Hydro Flask 32oz Flex Straw
Hydro Flask 32oz Flex Straw
Hydro Flask Flex Straw
  • Removable insert that lets you clean around the spout more easily
  • Good brand with other interchangeable lids
  • Good handle
See Hydro Flask
Best Chug Lid
Takeya Actives
Takeya Actives
Takeya (Actives Series)
  • Good handle
  • Attached spout cover
  • Actives series comes with an insulated lid
See Takeya Actives
FJbottle 32oz
FJbottle 32oz
FJbottle
  • Magnet keeps the spout cap out of your face
  • Has a rigid handle and a carrying strap
See FJbottle
Best Sip Lid
Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip
Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip
Hydro Flask Flex Sip
  • Good handle
  • Easy to know when the lid is opened or closed
  • Easy to disassemble (though it does take a few steps and has more parts than some other brands)
See Hydro Flask 16oz 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 Bottles

Most 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
Owala FreeSip Lid
Owala FreeSip Lid
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Owala FreeSip Lid and Removable Seal
Let's start with the most popular brands by looking at a bottle that's quite possibly overtaking Stanley as the most trendy option on the market today, Owala.

Owala's FreeSip is good because it has an ergonomic combination straw and spout lid that's honestly pretty nice to use.  It's also a reasonably priced bottle.

Cons with Owalas are the handle and at least for me, the colors (though some people love the funky combinations).

​I recently made a dedicated post about this brand, so check out this link if you'd like to learn more.
See Owala FreeSip
2 of 31: Stanley Quencher
Stanley Quencher Handle
Stanley Quencher Handle
Stanley Quencher Lid
Stanley Quencher Lid
Stanley's Quencher tumbler has been atop the social media mountain for a few years.

Stanley's Quencher is good because it has a large handle that's easy to hold because it's side-mounted.  It also has a tapered base that lets it fit cup holders.

Cons with Stanley Quenchers are that the lid is not leak-proof.  Also, the large handle makes an already-bulky bottle even bulkier
See Stanley Quencher
3 of 31: YETI Rambler
YETI Rambler Lid
YETI Rambler Lid
YETI Rambler Spout
YETI Rambler Spout
YETI's Rambler series is incredibly popular and includes a wide range of different products, but I'm just referring to their bottles like these.

YETI Rambler pros are the durability and the wide handle with their chug and straw lids.

Cons with YETI Ramblers are the high cost and the handles or lack thereof with their other lids.

I recently made a dedicated video about this brand, so check out this link if you'd like to learn more.
See YETI Rambler
4 of 31: Cirkul
Cirkul Flavor Pod
Cirkul Flavor Pod
Cirkul Flavor Dial
Cirkul Flavor Dial
Cirkul took social media by storm a few years ago, and it's known for having flavor pods with a dial so you can control how much flavor you get.  While an interesting concept, I really don't like this bottle.

Cirkul bottles are good if you'd like to easily add flavor to your drink, but that's about it.

Cons with Cirkul bottles are:
  • that the flavor pods are disposable so they add a lot of waste while also costing you a lot more money in the long run
  • the handle is also truly awful
  • the bottle finish scratched easily
  • the straw lid makes weird noises and takes a lot of sucking compared to Owala's design
  • and there are legitimate questions and concerns about about how artificial sweeteners affect your health and you're essentially drinking non-carbonated diet soda.

If you'd like to add flavors to your water bottle, a more natural option is our FlavorFuze Pod drop-in infuser.
See Cirkul
5 of 31: Hydro Flask 32oz Flex Straw
Hydro Flask 32oz Flex Straw
Hydro Flask 32oz Flex Straw
Hydro Flask 32oz Flex Straw
Hydro Flask 32oz Flex Straw
Next is Hydro Flask, and our company really got started by making accessories for these so I have a few of their bottles.  Hydro Flask's 32oz wide mouth style bottle was the social media darling a few years before Stanley, and even though they've dropped off the radar some, they're still great bottles.

Pros about Hydro Flasks are the lids, which all have great handles (other than the original straw lid).  They also have a wide range of color options.

​Cons are the high price, though they do seem to be on sale pretty often nowadays to compete more with Stanley and Owala.
See Hydro Flask 32oz Flex Straw
6 of 31: Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip
Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip
Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip
Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip
Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip
Hydro Flask Flex Sips are great bottles for coffee and tea.

Pros about the lid are the wide handle and that it's easy to take apart for cleaning.

Cons are the high price and that taking the lid apart takes quite a few steps (though it's not particularly difficult).
See Hydro Flask 16oz Flex Sip
7 of 31: Hydro Flask 24oz Flex Straw
Hydro Flask Narrow 21oz
Hydro Flask Narrow 21oz
Hydro Flask Narrow Flex Straw
Hydro Flask Narrow Flex Straw
I typically don't like narrow or standard mouth bottles as much as wide mouths because they're more difficult to clean, have smaller lids and handles, and aren't as easy to add things like ice or flavorings.

​But a positive of bottles with narrower mouths like this are that they typically have better insulation than their wide mouth counterparts.
See Hydro Flask Narrow 24oz
8 of 31: Hydro Flask 32oz Trail Series
Hydro Flask Trail Series
Hydro Flask Trail Series
Hydro Flask Trail Series
Hydro Flask Trail Series
Another good variation to know about is their Trail Series.  This style is lighter and actually tested a little better in an insulation test I did recently compared to their original wide mouth.

​Cons of this series is that they don't have many color options, though they do all share a cool metallic look that is different from the market-standard powder coating with most bottles.
See Hydro Flask Trail Series
9 of 31: Hydro Flask 64oz Growler
Hydro Flask Growler
Hydro Flask Growler
Hydro Flask Growler
Hydro Flask Growler
Hydro Flask's 64oz Growler is a good one to have for situations like long road trips when you can use the growler to refill a smaller bottle that's better to use when driving.  But for most people, growlers are too big to be the main bottle they drink water from and are better used for refills.

​It's also worth noting that I have Hydro Flask's standard style growler, not their beer growler, which is another 64oz bottle with a different lid that's specifically designed to handle carbonation.
See Hydro Flask Growler
10 of 31: S'well 25oz
S'well 25oz Narrow Mouth
S'well 25oz Narrow Mouth
S'well 25oz Narrow Mouth
S'well 25oz Narrow Mouth
S'well is one of the original trendy brands, and for good reason.

S'well is good for its sleek look, which is more aesthetic than most other brands.  The narrow mouth one I have also had one of the best insulation test results of any bottle from my collection.

A con is that it's too narrow to easily get ice into it so there's a bit of a tradeoff, and this makes it more difficult to clean too.  The bottle also doesn't have a handle so it's not as easy to carry with you, and they're pretty pricey.
See S'well
11 of 31: Klean Kanteen Classic 40oz
Klean Kanteen Classic 40oz
Klean Kanteen Classic 40oz
Klean Kanteen Classic 40oz
Klean Kanteen Classic 40oz
​Klean Kanteen is another premium brand, and I have two of their bottles.

The good things about Klean Kanteen's non-insulated bottles like this 40-ounce single-wall are that they're lightweight, reasonably priced, and have stainless steel under the lid.

The bad side is that it's not insulated and the handle is truly awful, though their updated loop style lid is much better.  The lid shown in these pictures is an older style.
See Klean Kanteen Classic
12 of 31: Klean Kanteen TKWide 32oz
Klean Kanteen TKWide 32oz
Klean Kanteen TKWide 32oz
Bump-Style Threads
Bump-Style Threads
I also have their 32-ounce TKWide, which is their insulated series.

These bottles have pretty good lid options, and the bump-style threads are easier to clean compared to traditional threads.

Some downsides with TKWides are that some people find the thin metal handle uncomfortable, and they are very bulky, especially because of the bump cap which is essentially a bumper on the bottom that's intended to save your insulation if you drop your bottle.

The problem I have with that is that is that I found in a recent test that most dents don't affect insulation anyways and if the dent is bad enough to affect insulation then your bottle is probably too wobbly and ready to be replaced anyways, so that extra cap on the bottom just seems to add more to the bulk of this already bulky bottle.
See Klean Kanteen TKWide
13 of 31: Takeya 32oz
Takeya Actives
Takeya Actives
Takeya Actives
Takeya Actives
Now we're getting into some mid-range brands that are still great options but may not have the prestige of a brand like YETI or Stanley.  First is Takeya.

Pros are the reasonable cost and the great chug lid, which has a connected spout cap and a wide handle design.

I honestly don't have many negatives to say about this brand, but some people do prefer a rigid handle like YETI's over Takeya's hinged design.

​If you get a Takeya, go with their Actives series listing because it'll come with their insulated lid and a protective bottle boot.
See Takeya Actives
14 of 31: Nalgene 32oz
Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth
Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth
Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth
Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth
Nalgene is the only plastic bottle in this video, and yes, I realize it's not stainless steel, but I'm grandfathering this bottle in because it's a cult classic with a place in history as the first popular reusable bottle for outdoors and hiking.

Good things about Nalgenes are that the plastic construction is really lightweight and inexpensive

Bad things are they don't have a great handle and are not insulated.
See Nalgene
15 of 31: Healthy Human 32oz Stein
Healthy Human 32oz Stein
Healthy Human 32oz Stein
Healthy Human Lid
Healthy Human Lid
If you avoid Nalgene because of the plastic, then a good alternative to consider is Healthy Human.  I have two of their bottles, a 32-ounce classic design and a 21-ounce from their Curve series.

Both have stainless steel under the lid so you can avoid plastic contact with your water.  They also come with a lid that has a wide handle and a light-duty carabiner so you can clip it to a bag

The Curve series is more ergonomic for some people.

​One downside is the lack of a sip style lid for coffee in their bottles, though they do have tumblers and cups that are a better fit for that.
See Healthy Human Stein
16 of 31: Healthy Human 21oz Curve
Healthy Human Curve
Healthy Human Curve
Healthy Human Curve
Healthy Human Curve
The Curve series is more ergonomic for some people, and it has some other color combinations and gradients.

Other than that, it's very similar to the Stein and use the same style lid.

See Healthy Human Curve
17 of 31: Camelbak Chute Mag 32oz
Camelbak Chute Mag 32oz
Camelbak Chute Mag 32oz
Camelbak Chute Mag 32oz
Camelbak Chute Mag 32oz
Next is Camelbak's Chute Mag.  Camelbak is one of the brands that's been around the hydration world for a long time, so their bottles are very common and well-known.

Good things are that the lid has a magnet in the spout cap that helps keep it out the way when you're taking sips.  They're also some of the least-expensive insulated options out there.

Bad things are that I'm personally not a huge fan of the offset handle, but some people prefer that style.  The magnets are cool, but I'm not a huge fan of the all-plastic hinge design because it is tricker to link up the cap with the spout compared to bottles with fixed hinges like Takeya and FJbottle.

Overall, this is a pretty middle-of-the-road bottle in my opinion that does a lot well but doesn't excel at anything in particular in my opinion.
See Camelbak
18 of 31: ThermoFlask 32oz
ThermoFlask 32oz
ThermoFlask 32oz
ThermoFlask 2-Pack
ThermoFlask 2-Pack
ThermoFlask is another solid mid-range brand that doesn't have much that really differentiates it in either a good or a bad way.

But one good thing that you don't see with many other brands is that ThermoFlask regularly offers two-pack options for additional savings, so if you're already thinking about buying two bottles then it's a good option.

​Fun fact, this brand is owned by Takeya, so they have a lot of similarities.
See ThermoFlask 2-Pack
19 of 31: Iron Flask 40oz
Iron Flask 40oz
Iron Flask 40oz
Iron Flask Lids
Iron Flask Lids
​Next is Iron Flask, and you can probably guess what this brand is going for.

They have done a good job establishing their footing on Amazon as a lower priced alternative to Hydro Flask.  Pros are the value, as you'll get three lids included for a reasonable price.

​The downside is that the lids feel cheap compared to what you get from Hydro Flask itself.
See Iron Flask
20 of 31: Ozark Trail 32oz
Ozark Trail 32oz
Ozark Trail 32oz
Ozark Trail Lid
Ozark Trail Lid
Ozark Trail is Walmart's bottle brand, and as much as I hate to admit it, this is a pretty solid bottle.

Pros are that it has a grippy base and a good lid that has a connected spout cap and wide handle.  And surprisingly, Ozark Trail has also consistently had the best insulation tests out of all the wide mouth bottles that I have compared it against.

Cons are that you can't buy it on Amazon, so if you're looking to use Prime shipping then you're out of luck.  The handle is also just a touch small for comfortably fitting three larger fingers like mine.
See Ozark Trail
21 of 31: FJbottle 32oz
FJbottle 32oz
FJbottle 32oz
FJbottle Strap
FJbottle Strap
FJbottle is a brand most people haven't heard of, but if you saw my comparison video last year then you know I really like their bottle.

What I love about FJbottle is that it has both a fingerhold handle and a built-in carrying strap, which is something most bottles don't have.  The strap is something I didn't expect to like as much as I did, and it makes it a lot easier to carry your bottle when your hands are full with other things.  It's also reasonably priced, has a no-slip base, and has a magnetic spout cap that I honestly prefer over Camelbak's design.

A downside is that the spout opening is a little too small, but for the most part I'm easily able to overlook that inconvenience because of everything else this bottle has going for it.
See FJbottle
22 of 31: EcoVessel 32oz
EcoVessel 32oz
EcoVessel 32oz
EcoVessel Strainer
EcoVessel Strainer
EcoVessel is another reasonably priced bottle for what you get.

Pros are that it comes with a bottle boot and has stainless steel under the lid to avoid plastic contact with your water.  It also has a built-in strainer that can be used for tea or blocking ice.

Unfortunately, the strainer is too small to hold fruit, and the bottle doesn't have a true handle, though you can use the cap tether.
See EcoVessel
23 of 31: Steepware 22oz
Steepware 22oz
Steepware 22oz
Steepware Infusers
Steepware Infusers
Steepware is one of the first bottles I am aware of that had a built-in strainer, and it also has a larger section here that screws into the strainer.  This makes it a better option than EcoVessel for loose leaf tea or even some smaller fruits.

Other than that, I don't really like Steepware though.  It was an outlier on the bad side on an insulation test, and the lid isn't that great.
See Steepware
24 of 31: Vesmoon 32oz
Vesmoon 32oz
Vesmoon 32oz
Vesmoon Infusers
Vesmoon Infusers
Vesmoon is a new brand that has the best built-in infuser in my opinion.  It's a larger infuser than Steepware's, and the chug lid is a really good design that includes a carrying strap.

​The downside is that it's a smaller brand, but if that's not a problem for you and you're looking for a good infuser bottle then this is one of the best options I've seen.
See Vesmoon
25 of 31: RevoMax
RevoMax
RevoMax
RevoMax Threadless Lid
RevoMax Threadless Lid
RevoMax has a really unique feature in that it's the only bottle in this video that is completely threadless.  You pull on this part here to lock the lid into place, and to unlock it you pinch the side buttons and press this button on top. 

The main pros and cons are really opposite sides of the same coin.  The lid is easy to open with one hand, but because this lid is separate it makes it difficult to use this bottle when driving unless you put the lid down somewhere.

And the lack of threads makes it easier to clean in some ways, but the lid itself is trickier to disassemble than other lids when you need to do a deep clean.

​It's a narrow mouth bottle, and it tested really well on an insulation test I did last year taking the top spot in essentially a tie with my narrow mouth S'well.
See RevoMax
26 of 31: Zulu Ace
Zulu Ace
Zulu Ace
Zulu Ace Removable Bottom
Zulu Ace Removable Bottom
​Zulu Ace is a great bottle to consider if you're a clean freak because you can open the bottle from both sides.  This is a good option if you don't want a tumbler like a Stanley Quencher, but you also don't want to deal with a bottle brush kit.

The downside is that there are more threads where it could potentially leak if a seal is misaligned, and it doesn't have a built-in handle.
See Zulu Ace
27 of 31: Stanley Classic Thermos
Stanley Thermos
Stanley Thermos
Stanley Thermos
Stanley Thermos
Stanley's Thermos is certainly not a new design, but I'm including it in this part of my review because it's so much different from all the other bottles I've mentioned.

This bottle has great insulation, but you wouldn't want to use it as a main water bottle.  It's best used in situations like outdoor events to store and distribute hot coffee or tea while you drink from other cups.
See Stanley Thermos
28 of 31: Otiem Copper
Otiem Copper Bottle
Otiem Copper Bottle
Otiem Copper Bottle
Otiem Copper Bottle
Copper has been used for thousands of years as a drinking container and vessel, but it's good to know what you're getting into before you buy one.

Most brands heavily market health benefits associated with using copper bottles, though I personally have not seen trusted sources or scientific research that definitively backs this up (at least not to the degree that the benefits are marketed).

They also take a lot more regular maintenance compared to stainless steel and plastic bottles because the copper tarnishes over time.

But there's no doubt that they look really cool!
See Otiem
29 of 31: Brita Filter Bottle
Brita Bottle
Brita Bottle
Brita Bottle Filter
Brita Bottle Filter
Brita's bottle stays true to their roots by focusing on filtration because the bottle has a built-in filter.  This is a great option if you're traveling and are not sure about the water quality.  If you're familiar with LifeStraw, just think of this bottle like having a built-in accessory like that.

I'm not a fan of the handle though, and the bottle itself isn't as aesthetically pleasing as many others on this list.
See Brita
30 of 31: GRAYL Filter Bottle
GRAYL Filter Bottle
GRAYL Filter Bottle
GRAYL Filter Bottle
GRAYL Filter Bottle
GRAYL is a different take on the filter bottle.  Instead of sucking water through a filter straw, you use this bottle like a French press.

It looks really cool and rugged and helps clean water when you're camping or hiking and need to get water from a stream.

But this isn't a convenient bottle for every-day use because it's a lot of effort to go through if you already have good water and the handle isn't much to write home about.  And these bottles are crazy expensive, with this version costing $100 and their titanium version costing $200.
See GRAYL
31 of 31: LARQ UV Bottle
LARQ UV Bottle
LARQ UV Bottle
LARQ UV Bottle
LARQ UV Bottle
And last we have LARQ, which is the most high-tech bottle I own.  You may have seen them on Shark Tank, and this bottle's main calling card is the built-in UV light that sanitizes your water.

The pros are that UV light is proven to make water safer to drink by killing bacteria, and it's a cool concept that you can show off.

The cons are the high cost, having to recharge the battery, and they only have a narrow mouth design.
See LARQ
1 Comment

Doing This May Remove 80% of Microplastics from your Drinking Water

3/3/2024

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There is a growing level of concern and awarness about microplastics in water, but a new study suggests that boiling water may remove many of these tiny particles.
Picture

What are Microplastics and Nanoplastics?

If you have not heard of microplastics in the past, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration gives a quick recap here. (or just google "what are microplastics" and it should come up near the top of the list).

Essentially, microplastics are small pieces of plastics that are less than 5 millimeters long.  They are caused when small plastics are washed away or discarded, and they can also be created when larger plastics break down over time.  The widespread use of plastics combined with the difficult of filtering these small pieces has caused to them to become increasingly prevalent and widespread in our drinking water, lakes, and oceans.

And as you might expect, nanoplastics are similare but are even smaller.

Some microplastics with common examples include:
  • polystyrene
    • foam-forms like in insulating coolers and cups, as well as packing peanuts
    • hard forms include items like some disposable razors and CD cases
  • polyethylene (the most commonly produced plastic)
    • "HDPE" (high-density polyethylene) is used to make many common containers, like milk jugs and detergent bottles, as well as industrial-size products like municipal water lines
    • microbeads that are used as exfoliants in some health and beauty products, which were thankfully banned as part of the Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015)
  • polypropylene (2nd most commonly produced plastic)
    • found in many food-grade products (including many water bottle lids)
    • some clothing (though polyester has become a common replacement)
Picture

Does Boiling Water Remove Microplastics?

The experiment is titled "Drinking Boiled Tap Water Reduces Human Intake of Nanoplastics and Microplastics." According the the abstract, the authors claim to:

"present evidenence that polystyrene, polyethylene, and polypropylene NMPs can coprecipitate with calcium carbonate (CaCO3) incrustants in tap water upon boiling. Boiling hard water (>120 mg L–1 of CaCO3) can remove at least 80% of polystyrene, polyethylene, and polypropylene NMPs size between 0.1 and 150 μm. Elevated temperatures promote CaCO3 nucleation on NMPs, resulting in the encapsulation and aggregation of NMPs within CaCO3 incrustants."

Essentially, this means that boiling water causes the plastics to combine with calcium cabonate (aka the "hard" in "hard water" that is in most people's homes), then the combined particles then drop to the bottom, leaving a layer of cleaner water on top.
Visualization of the Precipitation of Microplastics (
Visualization of the Precipitation of Microplastics ("NMP") and Calcium Carbonate (credit to the authors Yu, Wang, Liu, Li, and Zeng)
I do not have full access to the article, but I would expect two followup questions should be considered that weren't covered in the abstract.
  1. Does the water need to be filtered after boiling (likely), and if so, what type of filter would be effective to remove the precipitate?
  2. How does this compare to other filtration methods, such as reverse osmosis?
Hydration News with BottlePro
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