We found 14 water bottles to keep you hydrated while being kinder to the environment
UK consumers go through an estimated 14 billion plastic drinks bottles per year, according to Defra, but single-use plastic is falling out of favour thanks to efforts from David Attenborough and Greta Thunberg. More people are turning to reusable water bottles and in return, bottles are getting smarter. The best water bottles these days are insulated, leak-proof, filtered and BPA free.
BPA stands for Bisphenol A, an industrial chemical compound used in the manufacturing of strong plastics. Some research suggests BPA can leak into food and drink and cause health problems. “When looking for a bottle, look for non-toxic materials. Stainless steel is one of the most eco-friendly materials for a water bottle. Not only is it safe, but it is very durable and infinitely recyclable,” says Natalie Byrne, content marketing manager at Go Outdoors.
For this guide I’ve tried and tested a number of the best water bottles on the market – including gym water bottles, water bottles with straws, and even the Air-up water bottle which uses scented pods to trick your brain into thinking you’re drinking squash (when in fact, it’s just water). Genius.
I’ve also reached out to an expert to help answer frequently asked questions, like how to choose an environmentally friendly water bottle, how to clean one, and how long you can keep water in one. You can find the answers at the bottom of this feature. If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick look at my top five: