The Dangers of Plastic Water Bottles
May 4th, 2010
With more people trying to lose weight and improve their overall health, personal plastic and metal bottles for water are all the rage. Stores sell these bottles in different colors and sizes and with or without insulation. Options such as hand grips and belt clips are also offered on the newer bottles. Many of these bottles are made from plastic, and up until recently most people didn’t think twice about sipping from a plastic bottle. In fact, many people keep packs of plastic water bottles in their car for easy access.
The new research on plastic water bottles finds that BPA, a chemical found in epoxy resin, can leach into foods and waters from the plastic. This chemical can act as a carcinogen, damage the reproductive organs, and have an adverse effect on tissues. The leaching of the BPA happens when the plastic warms up, when it’s washed in a dishwasher, and from normal wear and stress on the plastic. Some people may confuse an aluminum bottle with a metal one, and consumers should be careful because many aluminum bottles have a lining that contains BPA. To prevent exposure to this resin, environmentalists recommend switching to glass or stainless steel bottles.
Types of Metal Water Bottles
Most metal bottles are advertised as stainless steel drinking bottles. Insulation is optional in a metal bottle. Any bottle advertised as double walled stainless steel is an insulated bottle that will work to regulate temperatures for both hot and cold liquids. These bottles come with different types of caps, and some brands even offer a variety of caps. The most common type of cap is the twist cap that has a loop in the top for an attachment hook. There are also squirt caps, straw cap systems, and flat caps.
The sizes of these water bottles are also varied, ranging from larger 20 oz. bottles to smaller 12 oz. bottles. Parents who want BPA free kids cups can find metal sippy bottles in a 12 oz. size, and many of them even include the option of buying a spout cover for when the bottle’s not in use.
What to Look for When Choosing a Water Bottle
The type of water bottle needed is really dependent upon its use. If being used to carry in a purse or car, a smaller bottle is best. For athletes who need a bottle for biking, running, kayaking, or playing sports, a large insulated bottle would work well. Cyclists need to look for a bottle that fits comfortably in a bike bottle rack, and one that isn’t too heavy so it doesn’t add more weight to the bike.
The condensation factor of metal bottles is another consideration to think about when shopping for a new bottle. A sleeve can go around the bottle to soak up condensation, but some people need a bottle that won’t drip so they can put it on their desk at work. Bottles should be designed for easy cleaning. One problem people find with non-plastic bottles is the growth of mold, especially in fancy designed bottles that have hard to clean angles or deep recesses. Overall, a metal water bottle should have a clean design, an easy drink cap, and be easy to clean. Other design options are all a matter of personal taste.
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