Plastic Water Bottles May Harbor More Bacteria, Experts Say

Drinking enough water every day is important to support your physical activity, support brain function, improve digestion and help your skin. The best way to make sure you have enough to drink is with a reusable water bottle. Take it with you on the trip or leave it next to your bedside table – these stylish drinking glasses have an indispensable place in our everyday life, and that’s exactly why you should have the right one on hand and keep it clean.

Biofilm, a slimy, slippery residue that forms in your water bottles, is home to harmful bacteria that can leach into your water, they say Kali KnielMicrobiologist and professor of food safety at the University of Delaware. Studies have shown that plastic water bottles are likely to develop this film more quickly than stainless steel or glass alternatives. These pesky plastic bottles also release more microplastics than other options on the market, potentially adding more fuel to the fire. Kniel recommends washing the reusable bottles every two to three days; it’s worth making the right choice. Below, we’ve rounded up some options to shop, including different materials and designs that best suit your needs for healthy water drinking throughout the day.

Stainless steel and glass water bottles

W&P Porter glass water bottle with protective silicone cover

While the study found stainless steel to be the better option in terms of bacterial growth, I have to share this glass bottle, another material recommended by experts. My partner and I bought this travel bottle because it is easy to use and clean, which is another important factor in preventing biofilm. The top is easy to clean and you can easily get inside with a cleaning brush. Plus, the bottle is made entirely of glass and silicone – a healthier replacement for plastic.

Stainless steel hydro bottle, micro hydro

This is my current water bottle. I received the Micro Hydro from the brand in the mail to try out and I absolutely love it. A noticeably small 6.7 ounce bottle that I take with me to the gym, on walks, and on errands when I don’t need a lot of water but want something to quench my thirst. It is lightweight, fits in pockets and is easy to hold by the handle. I can also tie it to my weight vest to keep my hands free. The stainless steel interior is easy to keep clean. The lid has an inner rim that can be cleaned with a straw cleaner or a thinner sponge.

Yeti Rambler stainless steel bottle

I have a few Yeti products including this bottle. This is a no-fuss, predominantly stainless steel water bottle that does the job. The insulation is effective and keeps the ice in place for hours. I prefer the drinking cap because it’s easy to drink from and it’s less hassle to clean. Even though the lid is plastic, I think having the water in the stainless steel bottle is a great option compared to an all-plastic version.

Hydro Flask stainless steel travel mug with handle

This cup’s straw is made of silicone and the body is made of stainless steel, which helps reduce microplastics in your drink. The interior corresponds to Kniel’s recommendation. While there are more nooks and crannies to clean, a flexible straw like this is easy to clean with a straw brush. It features a handle for easy carrying when filled with water.

Owala FreeSip insulated stainless steel water bottle with straw

Almost all of my colleagues rave about the Owala bottle because it helps them maintain their water intake with ease. The FreeSip lid opens with the push of a button for seamless drinking. I would say this is the best option if you are just looking for a no-fuss, effective and pretty stainless steel bottle. There are dozens of color options to choose from, so you can choose what you like best.

BrüMate Era 40-ounce stainless steel tumbler with handle and straw

The BrüMate Era cup takes the design preferred by microbiologists to the next level. Both the interior and straw are made of stainless steel – a great option for repelling biofilm. Despite the straw, it is leak-proof, so you can rely on this cup throughout the day without worrying about a drop being lost.