Nalgene (32oz)

Nalgene

Highlights: Affordable, Lightweight, Dent-Resistant

What you'll learn:

1. ​Why is Nalgene popular?
2. What makes Nalgene good?
3. ​What is not good about Nalgene?
4. How good is Nalgene's insulation?
5. How durable are Nalgene bottles?
6. Are Nalgene bottles dishwasher safe?
7. Do Nalgene bottles fit in cupholders?
8. What are alternatives to Nalgene?

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Nalgene Review

Overview

Nalgene is the original reusable water bottle meant for water and hydration.  By making a lightweight, affordable and reusable bottle at a time when there was not much else like it on the market, this brand gained a devoted following among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, particularly starting in the 1970s.  

However, in the 2000s, harmful health affects associated with BPAs became more widely-known.  Many customers, and even some retailers began boycotting Nalgene, eventually leading to them updating their formulation.  This is also why every bottle today visibly says how it is "BPA Free."

While Nalgene did adapt, this left a stigma with many consumers who flocked to non-plastic options like Klean Kanteen, which fueled stainless steel's rise in the market and eventually vacuum insulated bottles.

Why Buy?

• Affordable: At a time when it's not crazy to see bottles priced at $50, Nalgene continues to offer an affordable product, often in the $15-$20 range.
• Lightweight: The plastic construction weighs a signficant amount less than stainless steel bottles, especially dual-wall ones.  This makes Nalgene a good option for throwing in a backpack for hikes.
• Durable: Stainless steel bottles are strong, but most dent easily if you drop them.  Nalgene's plastic construction is much more dent-resistant.
• Made-in-USA: For USA-based customers who prefer buying domestically, this Nalgene is the only mass-manufactured option we are aware of.

Why Avoid?

• Plastic: While BPAs are no longer in bottles, many consumers are still hesitant to use them.  There are also some concerns about the chemicals that replaced BPAs and whether they have health issues too, but they just haven't been researched enough yet to lead to action.
• Not Insulated: Nalgene's plastic bottles are not insulated, so they will not hold ice for long.  If you want to keep ice water, consider purchasing a dual-wall vacuum insulated bottle.

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Nalgene FAQs

• Are Nalgene bottles dishwasher safe? | Yes, you can put Nalgene bottles in the dishwasher.  They recommend putting it on the top rack though.
• Are Nalgene bottles safe? | According to most research, Nalgene bottles are safe to use since they changed to BPA-free plastic.  However, it's worth noting that there are some conflicting opinions and testing results.  This article does a great job of explaining this complicated, and often confusing situation.
• Are Nalgene bottles BPA-free? | Yes, all Nalgene plastic bottles are made with Tritan plastic, which is shown to be BPA free according to most research, but as mentioned above, there is some conflicting information.
• Do Nalgene bottles contain lead? | No.
• Where are Nalgene bottles made? | Nalgene bottles are made in the USA.
• Are Nalgene bottles worth it? | With such a low price point and being extremely durable, Nalgenes are a great value option.
• Do Nalgene bottles fit in cupholders? | No, 32oz Nalgenes are too wide to fit in the majority of cupholders.  Consider getting an adapter like our BottlePro Max.

How Do You Clean a Nalgene?

Video coming soon!
For now, check out our general cleaning guide for large stainless steel bottles.

Sip or Skip Stat Sheet

Our Sip or Skip stat sheets combine all the information above in one easy-to-use format to make comparing bottles easier.

Nalgene Stat Sheet

See our Video Review

Video coming soon!

How to Buy a Nalgene

Nalgene (32oz)

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Popular Alternatives

Before you buy, it may be worth looking at these other options.

Hydro Flask

Hydro Flask Tumbler (40oz)

Great for vacuum insulation, as Hydro Flask was the first brand to popularize to a wider audience.

See on Amazon

Hydro Flask's Trail Series

Hydro Flask Trail Series (32oz)

Lighter and with a comfy, wide handle, this is one of the best insulated bottles for hiking.

See on Amazon

Owala's FreeSip

Owala FreeSip (32oz)

As the latest viral bottle, Owala has caught people's attention with an innovative lid and fun color combos.

See on Amazon

Helpful Resources

Compare

See what else is out there

Clean

Learn how to properly maintain your bottle

Recommended Accessories

Bottle Brush Kit

Great for your regular cleaning every 2-4 days.

​ This kit includes a large brush to clean in the bottle, a detailing brush to clean the threads and lid, a straw cleaner, and hangers so you can stay organized.

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Cleaning Tablets

Recommended to use these once per month.

In additional to regular weekly cleaning, deep-cleaning your bottle once per month is usually a good idea to prevent germs and buildup, especially around seals.

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Cup Holder Adapter

Usually needed for bottles over 3" diameter.

Our BottlePro Max has a twist-to-expand base, removable centralizing tabs, and a grip pad to help keep your bottle secure and by your side.

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And Just for Fun (and Better Tasting Water)

Fruit Infuser

As a bonus, check out our FlavorFuze Pod drop-in fruit infuser to make your water fun!  Skip the soda or flavor pods with artificial sweeteners (like Cirkul) and add healthy flavors with natural fruit each day.  The pod is easy to remove when you're done thanks to a big handle on top, making for a healthy mid-day snack.

It comes with two lids.  One is a splash-guard style lid that fits in wide mouth Hydro Flasks, and the other is a drop-in style lid that fits in nearly all wide mouth bottles (including Owala FreeSips, YETI Ramblers, Stanley Quenchers, Hydro Flasks, and many more).

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