Water Bottles

Insulated or single-wall water bottle?

Vacuum insulation keeps drinks hot or cold for longer, but often makes the bottle heavier and larger. A single-wall steel bottle is lighter, but the outside gets hot or cold more quickly. How long the drink stays hot or cold always depends on the specific model and how it is used.

What size should the bottle be, and which lid is right for your trip?

A large bottle lasts longer, but also weighs more in your bag. Measure the height and diameter if it needs to fit in a cup holder, a bicycle bottle cage, or a narrow pocket. Screw caps, drinking lids, and cup lids offer different ways to drink and may not all be equally leakproof. Only fill the bottle with carbonated or very hot liquids if permitted by the manufacturer.

How do you clean lids, seals, and straws?

A wide opening makes it easy to fill the bottle with ice and clean it with a brush. Lids with seals, valves, or straws may need to be taken apart. Follow the cleaning instructions, allow all parts to dry completely before reassembling the bottle, and only use the dishwasher if this particular bottle is dishwasher-safe.