If you've set a goal to stay hydrated, chances are, you're going to need more than a few glasses per day. To achieve your daily hydration goal, it's best to invest in a reusable water bottle you can carry around. Why does this matter? Because buying new plastic bottles every day is already a recipe for mass pollution. An eco drink bottle is a long-term investment you can carry around just everywhere.

Choose the Right Materials

Glass

Glass has been a popular choice for drinking containers for centuries, tracing back to ancient civilizations. While it may be delicate and not the best at retaining temperature, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. If you're looking to reduce your environmental impact, consider opting for water bottles crafted from recycled glass.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a durable and widely favoured material, known for its resilience and dishwasher-safe properties. Comprised of iron and chromium, it boasts a protective layer that prevents rusting and any unwanted taste transfer to your water. Moreover, stainless eco drink bottle is perhaps the most common choice for many people because it can be fully recycled.

Silicone

This material is flexible, lightweight, and simple to maintain. The best part? It won't break into pieces if accidentally dropped during outdoor activities. While opinions vary on its sustainability due to its non-biodegradable and non-recyclable nature, silicone is derived from a plentiful element abundant in the earth's crust.

Insulation Options

Everyone has their temperature preferences for their drinks. Some people are okay with room-temperature beverages, while others prefer their drinks ice-cold. If you want your drinks to stay at the perfect temperature, then a bottle with insulation features is the way to go.

• Vacuum insulation - this method uses two flasks joined together with no air in between. This design ensures that the liquid inside stays at the desired temperature, regardless of the outside air temperature. Vacuum-insulated bottles can be made from different materials, but stainless steel is a popular choice.
• Double-wall construction - this design also provides two layers of insulation. These layers may or may not be vacuum-sealed. By creating an extra barrier between your drink and the outside world, this design helps maintain the ideal temperature.
• Copper-lined bottles - this type of insulation conducts and radiates temperature back to the liquid inside. Some bottles even combine copper linings with other insulating materials for better performance.

Consider the Lid

• Twist-on lids - These caps are designed to stay securely in place, minimizing the risk of any leaks. However, they can be a bit of a hassle to open every time you want to take a sip.
• Flip lids - With just a simple press of a button, flip lids effortlessly pop open, revealing either a straw or simply opening the lid. They are perfect for one-handed drinking, making it convenient on the go.
• Straw lids - Some lids come with retractable straws, while others have fixed straws. Straws make it easy to drink, but they can be a bit of a pain to clean. Additionally, water bottles with straws sticking out are not as portable as twist-on lids since they can leak if turned the wrong way.
• Sports caps - These lids have convenient pop-up nozzles on top of the bottle. They are great for quick sips and usually sit on a twist-on cap, making it easy to fill your bottle.

Size and Volume

When choosing your water bottle, it's important to consider how much water you need to drink on a daily basis. Having a bigger bottle and making it a goal to finish it by the end of the day can help you stay on track with your hydration goals.

Also, consider your daily schedule. If you're frequently away from home all day, a bottle with a larger capacity would be more practical. But if you just need something portable for running errands or going to the gym, a smaller size would work just fine.

How to Clean It

Maintaining the cleanliness of your water bottle is crucial in preventing bacteria growth. Even if it doesn't get too dirty unless used for more than just water, regular cleaning is a must. If hand-washing isn't your thing, consider opting for a dishwasher-safe bottle made of stainless steel, glass, or silicone. Keep in mind that plastic bottles usually require hand-washing.

Certain bottle designs are easier to clean than others. Bottles with straws or complex lids can be tricky to thoroughly clean. Some bottles may be dishwasher-safe, but their lids may not be. Always check the washing instructions for proper cleaning.

Portability and Ergonomics

When choosing a water bottle, it's important to consider its portability and ergonomics. You don't want a bottle that spills easily or causes discomfort while carrying it. Think about how you plan to carry your bottle. Will you hold it, keep it in a bag, attach it to your bike, or place it in your car's cup holder? These factors can help you determine the right size, shape, and weight for your bottle.