Are you looking for a new water bottle to use? Perhaps you want something convenient but prefer one that’s healthier and good for the environment. So, which should you use?
Usually, you would choose between stainless steel vs plastic water bottles. While both have their perks, you might wonder which option is safer.
We’ve explored the differences between stainless steel and plastic bottles to help you decide. Let’s start!
Table of Contents
Health Effects
When you choose a water bottle, you want to be sure it’s good for you and causes less harmful effects on your body. After all, you’ll find yourself using it for a while. So, find an option that’s safe for human health.
Although both can come in food-grade variants, a stainless steel water bottle usually contains fewer chemicals than a plastic one.
Most plastic bottles have a toxin called BPA, which could be harmful with too much exposure. As a result, manufacturers tend to remove it from their products.
On the other hand, stainless steel water bottles don’t contain the same chemicals plastic bottles do. And so, it guarantees health safety much more than plastic options.
Environmental Impact
Plastic is one of the leading causes of pollution. Because of the impacts it makes, lots of people and organizations have been ringing the alarms to reduce plastic consumption.
While it usually comes from single-use plastic, reusable options still make an impact, since the material takes hundreds of years to break down. Moreover, the chemicals within it can spread once it starts to degrade.
And so, many find plastic water bottles, reusable or single-use, the least sustainable choice around. But with stainless steel, you can recycle the material. Additionally, they last a long time with proper care.
Cooling or Heating Capacity
Most plastic bottles have trouble handling hot beverages but can take cold liquid well. The downside is that it could only maintain the temperature for a certain time. It can also change easily depending on the weather.
This is where stainless steel water bottles make a big difference. They are known for their insulating properties, allowing you to maintain your drinks hot or cold longer.
You could find custom aluminum water bottles that hold your beverage’s temperature for up to 24 hours, regardless of the climate. So, you can worry less about your drink changing consistency or taste after a while.
Durability
When it comes to durability, stainless steel bottles are to be the better option. Its material gives you a secure container that can withstand force and scratches.
As for a plastic bottle, the material is often softer, so it may break more quicker than a steel one. Even so, you could find reusable variants made from sturdier plastic materials, like polypropylene.
Convenience
Due to its material, a stainless steel water bottle is often heavier than other options. If you fill it up, it could be hard to bring around due to its weight.
And so plastic bottles are more convenient since they are lightweight and available almost anywhere. You can easily buy them at a convenience store or from other vendors and restaurants.
If you buy a plastic water bottle from a store, they usually provide single-use ones. So, it’s best to bring your own to reduce the environmental impacts.
Cost-Effectiveness
Instead of choosing the cheapest option, it’s best to pick a water bottle that gives you good value for the cost. But when it comes to plastic or stainless steel ones, their cost-efficiency could vary on the benefits you get based on the use.
Let’s say you will take it with you on a hiking trip. Staying hydrated is vital to help you keep going, so you might want a bottle that keeps water cool for a while. In this case, a stainless steel one is ideal, even if it’s on the pricey side.
But if you need to quench your thirst on your walk home, you can settle with a plastic water bottle since you would only use it once. At the same time, they are affordable and easy to find, so it makes a good choice if you need a drink ASAP.
Customization
While you can customize plastic water bottles, it’s usually available for large quantities, like events or campaigns. But with a stainless steel one, you can get your own design printed onto the water bottle. Decals also hold up better on stainless steel, so you can decorate them as much as you like.
Among different types of water bottles, a stainless steel one tends to have the best options for customization. They come in many colors, styles, and sizes that help you pick the best one for your taste.
Reusable plastic bottles are similar but often come in clear colors to highlight the material. Even so, you can personalize it with the proper materials and methods.
Portability
Another thing many people look at when choosing between different water bottles is their portability. Many individuals buy a water bottle to carry when they head out, so it plays a big role in the decision.
Among the options, a plastic water bottle is more portable because it’s lighter and easier to store. But it can be tiring if you carry it in your hand.
As for a stainless steel bottle, you can buy one with a built-in holder. While it makes it easier to carry, it’s often heavier than most types of water bottles. So, it could be ideal if you don’t mind the weight.
Pick the Better Option Between Stainless Steel vs Plastic Water Bottles
When choosing between stainless steel vs plastic water bottles, you want one that’s safe and convenient. Moreover, it’s good to see if it comes with other features, like insulation and durability.
Most recommend picking a stainless steel one because it offers a better impact on health and the environment and is more cost-effective. But if you want a lighter or easier-to-find one, you will likely come across plastic ones more.
You can learn more about it by checking out our blog!
