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Guide to Non Toxic Water Bottles

Ask an assortment of people, “What are non toxic water bottles?” and you’ll get a wide assortment of answers. Some people claim only BPA free bottles, others insist steel, others swear glass is the only way to go, and others would say it doesn’t matter so long as it’s clean. Who is correct? That depends on what scientific studies you choose to believe. With all the conflicting information out there it is best for you to make a decision you feel is best for your health, conscience and lifestyle.

Brief History of the Debate

A few years back there was that huge scare about BPA, bisphenol A, in water bottles and food storage containers. The logic behind the concern is because BPA can mimic our estrogen hormones and therefore could potentially interfere with infant and early adolescent development along with an assortment of other bodily functions. These concerns arose after one unduplicated, unreviewed study for a Master’s thesis showed that BPA leaches from plastic bottles that are old or exposed to lots of heat/light.  Since that study came to light there have been numerous studies on both sides of the issue which show varying degrees of leeching.

Are BPA Free Water Bottles Safe?

People who believe that BPA leaches at toxic levels from their bottles into their drinks, but still like the connivance of plastic have chosen to switch to BPA free plastic bottles. Most manufacturers will advertise this on the packaging or on the bottom of the bottle with a note that the product is BPA free.

Steel or Aluminum Bottles

There are some who don’t believe any plastics are safe to use for reusable bottles or want to get away from using plastic bottles for environmental reason, so they choose to get a steel or aluminum bottle. Out of the two choices, steel is a much stronger material and less prone to cracking and leaking than an aluminum bottle.

Glass Water Bottles

Those who choose glass bottles may do so for several reasons, such as they can taste the metal in the water from metal bottles, and they don’t want to risk their health with plastic. Glass will not leach anything into your drink. It is breakable, which can make it difficult for lugging around town, taking with you on adventures and maintaining a safe environment around small children.

Any Clean Bottle

Out of all the studies on safe bottle materials, the one thing they all agree on is that the main health risk reusable bottles pose is being unclean. Most people rarely wash their reusable bottles with hot, soapy water and let then air dry. Instead, they just keep refilling their bottles for weeks on end. This gives the bacteria and fungus that get inside your bottle the perfect environment to thrive, dark and moist. You could have most non-toxic bottle in the world, but unless you clean it regularly (read daily), it will be a breeding ground for potentially harmful bacteria and fungus.

It is your choice to decide what a non toxic water bottle is for you, but whatever you decide, keep it clean. Happy hydrating!

This article has been written by expert author ‘Emily Cordz‘.