The Best Water Bottle Material: Are Metal Bottles Safe To Drink From?

Due to the health concerns linked with reusable and single-use plastic bottles, many people choose to drink from metal water bottles instead.

The most common types of metal water bottles on the market are made from aluminium or stainless steel. Both are 100% recyclable and more eco-friendly than plastic, but which is the best water bottle material for your health? 

Let’s take a closer look.

Are Aluminium Water Bottles Safe To Drink From?

Aluminium is lightweight, stylish, and looks very similar to stainless steel. However, there are some important differences. Firstly, there are health problems associated with consuming drinks from aluminium bottles. Although unconfirmed, aluminium used in food and drink containers and cookware has been linked with Alzheimer’s disease. 

Aluminium on its own is not safe to drink from, it’s a metal that reacts to acidity, and therefore aluminium drinks containers must have a plastic liner. This liner may contain toxic chemicals such as BPA or other microplastics which can leach into the water. A BPA-free aluminium bottle is a safer option but still not as safe as stainless steel water bottles. The liner can also become scratched or damaged over time, especially if you fill the bottle with hot beverages, which will leave the aluminium exposed. 

Aluminium is also not as heat resistant as stainless steel. It is not dishwasher safe and shouldn’t be washed at hot temperatures so bacteria may be able to survive for longer in an aluminium bottle.  

Also Read: What Is The Best Type Of Water Bottle?

Are Stainless Steel Water Bottles Safe To Drink From?

The safest type of reusable water bottle to drink from is a high-quality stainless steel water bottle. In comparison, reusable stainless steel water bottles are better than plastic or aluminium. Stainless steel is a non-toxic material that doesn’t need a liner. It’s a metal that doesn’t leach chemicals, even if the bottle becomes damaged or if you fill the bottle with boiling liquids like tea and coffee. Also, because stainless steel bottles can be washed at high temperatures, there is less risk of water contamination from bacteria. Washing your reusable water bottle regularly with soap and hot water will kill bacteria easily and efficiently so you can stay safe during the COVID 19 pandemic.

Some stainless steel bottles are even dishwasher safe but always check the manufacturers washing instructions before putting your bottle in the dishwasher. (FLASKE bottles are not dishwasher safe)

Which Stainless Steel Bottle Is Best?

Although safer than plastic and aluminium, even stainless steel bottles are not 100% risk-free. Some popular brands of insulated stainless-steel water bottles have been found to contain parts which have a toxic level of lead. This lead is typically found in a sealing dot at the base of low-quality double-walled stainless steel bottles. 

To be sure that the water you drink is safe, the best water bottle material is 18/8 food-grade stainless steel. The grade refers to the composition of metals, 18% chromium and 8% nickel, and is one of the highest grades of stainless steel available. When you buy an 18/8 food-grade stainless steel water bottle, you can be confident that it won’t leach chemicals into your water, even if the bottle becomes scratched, dented, or aged. It’s also safe to use with hot liquids and, because no liner is needed, it won’t hold bad tastes. 

Also Read: 10 Coolest FLASKE Reusable Water Bottles to Buy Online

The Bottom Line: What Is The Best Water Bottle Material?

Drinking from a reusable water bottle is beneficial for several reasons; it saves money, it minimises plastic waste, and it’s better for your health. But not all metal water bottles are equal. Drinking from aluminium or low-quality stainless steel water bottles is a risk to your health.

When you buy a reusable metal water bottles, make sure that you choose one that’s made from 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, like the thermally-insulated, stainless steel FLASKE thermoflask. 

Choose your FLASKE Bottle at our eco-friendly online store!