Reusable water bottles: materials, lids and break-even cost

Materials

• Stainless steel: durable, and many are insulated to hold hot or cold drinks. Check the label for the insulation and for what the interior is made of.
• Glass: does not hold flavors, and can break. Often comes with a silicone sleeve.
• Plastic: lightweight and low in price. Check the label for the type of plastic and any BPA-free statement.
• Aluminum: lightweight, with a lining inside. Check the label.
• Collapsible silicone: packs small, and suits travel.

Reading the label

• BPA-free: means the product does not contain bisphenol A. It describes one ingredient that is left out. Other plastics and substances are used instead, so read what the maker states.
• Food-grade: a maker's statement that the material is suitable for contact with food and drinks.
• Insulated: the label may state how long drinks stay cold or hot. These are maker's claims, tested under the maker's conditions.
• Lids: check what the lid, straw and gasket are made of, and whether they can be replaced.
• Dishwasher safe: check whether the whole bottle, or only some parts, can go in the dishwasher.
• Capacity: shown in ounces. Choose one that suits your day.

Our angle: break-even against bottled water, and the lid

Divide the price of a case of bottled water by the number of bottles to get the price per bottle, then multiply by the number you buy in a year. Divide the price of the reusable bottle by that yearly cost to see how many months it takes to pay for itself. The calculation assumes you will use it, so choose a bottle that fits your bag, your car cup holder and your habits, and one that you will keep clean. Lids and gaskets wear out first, so check whether replacements are sold and what they cost.

1. Divide the bottled water price by the bottle count.
2. Multiply by the number of bottles you buy per year.
3. Divide the reusable bottle price by that yearly cost.

Cleaning

• Wash the bottle regularly, including the lid and any straw, as the care label says.
• Let it dry fully. A bottle left closed and damp can develop odors.
• Replace a lid or gasket that is worn or damaged.
• Do not put hot drinks in a bottle that is not made for them.

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