Water Bottle Test

In the run-up to the test, we defined practical requirements and the following test criteria:

• Handling
• Tightness
• Cleaning
• Sturdiness

In order to be able to evaluate these criteria, we have defined several tests for the water bottles. First, the scope of delivery is checked. This is used to assess how easy it is to remove the lids and whether the bottles fit well in the hand. In the first test runs, the bottles are filled with still water up to the maximum capacity. Once all the bottles have been filled, we test how tight they are and whether they are leak-proof. Then the wrong bottles are drunk and the drinking experience is judged. The process is repeated with carbonated water on all bottles. All bottles are then dropped from a height of one metre to check their robustness. Finally, the bottles are cleaned by hand and, if possible, in the dishwasher.

In order to rule out errors and to ensure that the bottles are not exposed to the stress of everyday use, each test is carried out in several stages.

The test criteria are given percentages depending on their importance. The final score is then objectively calculated from the test criteria using an algorithm.

Product selection
Our product selection is based on an observation of the current market. In addition to popular branded products, we also include insider tips in our selection. Criteria such as price and range of functions are an important factor for us. The test field is also determined by analysis and evaluation of customer reviews and external tests (e.g. Stiftung Warentest).

The devices are purchased anonymously or lent to us by the manufacturer. Dealers and manufacturers have no influence on the tests and our evaluation.

As soon as new relevant products come onto the market, our test field is extended by these. The new products go through the same test as the already tested devices.

In principle, every water bottle should be cleaned once a day to avoid mould spores and other pollutants and to get rid of the aftertaste of old liquids. Before you start with the cleaning, the manufacturer's instructions should be considered. In it the cleaning of the bottle and the closures is usually explained in detail, in particular also whether the bottle and its individual parts are dishwasher-safe or not. If these instructions are not observed, the bottle may be damaged and its functionality may be impaired. Often the bottles are then no longer leak-proof.

Already with the purchase, one should pay attention to the fact that the water bottle and its accessories are as easy as possible to clean. Ideally, the closure and possible mouthpieces should be able to be dismantled into their individual parts, because this is the only way to reach all places. The opening of the water bottle should be large enough to allow enough space for cleaning.

Also, bottles that can be washed in the dishwasher should be washed regularly by hand. In this way, even stubborn deposits and dirt can be reliably removed. All you need is a flexible brush, warm water, and detergent. The same applies to the closure, and all corners should also be carefully cleaned. After washing, the bottle should be dried upside down in the air. It is important that the bottles can still breathe, i.e. that they are not closed immediately after washing. This not only causes unpleasant odours but also promotes the formation of germs and fungi.

Rice or coarse sea salt can be used to help with particularly heavy soiling. Three to four tablespoons without water are put into the bottle and shaken for about one minute. This can be repeated until all deposits have disappeared. Then rinse the bottle with clear water. Regular boiling of the water bottle at a temperature of at least 80 degrees Celsius also helps against bacteria, if the material permits this. Otherwise, you can fill two packs of baking powder into the bottle and fill them with water. After a few hours, the bottle will be like new. Further miracle products are vinegar essence and a denture cleaner.

A large water bottle does not need to be refilled as often, but it is also very heavy and unwieldy. Most people use bottles with a capacity of 0.6 to 1 litre. Ultimately, however, everyone should try out for themselves which size is right for them.

Plastic is slightly robust and simply uncomplicated. Therefore it is also used for the production of drinking bottles. And that although plastic is partly suspected to be harmful to health, not to mention the damage this material causes to our environment, that's another issue. We want to look at BPA in this section.

BPA stands for bisphenol A, a hormone-like chemical. The term plasticizer is also often used. The substance has its origins in the 19th century when it was intended to replace the female hormone estrogen. However, the effect of BPA was so small that it was not worth using it in hormone therapy. Some time later, researchers realized that the properties of BPA were well suited for the production of plastics. As a plasticizer with an antioxidant effect, the substance prevents the plastic from hardening and becoming brittle.

Nowadays, BPA can be found in many areas of life, for example in paints, adhesives, paints and various coatings. Plasticizers are also an integral part of the food packaging industry. It can be found in bottles, cans and another packaging.

In principle, it is not a problem if packaging and other materials contain BPA. However, under certain circumstances, the chemical may be released. In particular, this happens in contact with acids and alkalis or in the presence of heat. As far as drinking bottles are concerned, the last point, in particular, is of concern, as hot beverages are often filled as well. Solar radiation, heating heat or warm water in the dishwasher also causes BPA to be released. Then the chemical is transferred to other dishes or gets stuck in the packaged food or drink. In one of these ways, BPA can enter the human body.

BPA is problematic for people above a certain concentration because it has a similar effect to hormones. A healthy body can usually fend off and excrete small amounts without any problems, but with larger amounts it becomes critical. Studies show that an increased concentration of BPA in the body can lead to fertility problems, development inhibitions or even cardiovascular diseases. In addition, links between BPA intake and diabetes or obesity have also been demonstrated.

The TDI (tolerable daily intake) value, which indicates the amount of BPA that can be ingested daily without causing any damage to health, reveals how much BPA is still largely harmless. This value was set by experts at 4 micrograms of BPA per kilogram of body weight. Currently, the average amount of BPA ingested in Germany is 1.5 micrograms per kilogram of body weight. However, it is controversial whether the limit value is really valid. Countries such as France have therefore banned all packaging containing BPA. In Germany, there has been a ban on baby bottles containing BPA since 2011; no protective measures have been taken for older children and adults to date.

In order to protect oneself from the harmful effects of BPA, a number of things should be taken into account. Above all, all plastics containing BPA should be avoided as far as possible. This applies in particular to polycarbonates. However, since complete renunciation of all plastics is hardly feasible in everyday life, at least a few points should be taken into account when coming into contact with BPA:

• Do not pour warm liquids into plastic bottles containing BPA or other plastic containers.
• Do not wash plastics in the dishwasher, but by hand.
• Avoid heat during the storage of plastics.
• Check for microwave suitability; if in doubt, use a different container.
• Rinse thoroughly with cold water before use.
• If possible, use BPA-free bottles and containers.

When a bottle spills, this is usually due to the drinking cap, either it is defective or the user of the bottle has used the cap incorrectly. One of the most common faults is that carbonated beverages have been filled into the bottle and that unsuitable closures are placed in the dishwasher. For this reason, users of drinking bottles should always pay close attention to the manufacturer's instructions and always follow them. We explain which different closures there are for drinking bottles and what has to be observed in each case.

• Screwcap: The classic screw cap is familiar to everyone. The thread and its own seal ensure that the drinking bottle cannot leak. The bottle can only be used for drinking once the lid has been completely opened. Screw caps are often made of the same material as the bottle itself.
  Iron-on/bow caps: For carbonated beverages, iron-on or bow caps should be used because they can withstand the pressure created by the carbon dioxide particularly well. The bottle can be opened by loosening a metal handle.
• Pressure cap: A pressure cap can be opened by pressing a button. In some cases, a shackle lock is integrated as an additional safety feature. The pressure lock has the advantage that it can be operated with one hand.
  Autoseal closure: This innovative closure adopts the technology of the pressure closure and extends it. To open the bottle, press the Autoseal button. As soon as the button is released, the cap closes again. So it can no longer happen that a bottle is left standing open by mistake.
• Screw top: Bottles with screw caps can only be opened when the cap is turned 90 degrees. This type of closure is most commonly found on children's drinking bottles because it is extremely leak-proof. A protective cap ensures the necessary hygiene on the mouthpiece.
• Sports cap: Athletes have special demands on the drinking cap; it must be quick and easy to open, even when moving. That's why most sports bottles are equipped with a pull-out cap. This can be opened and closed by hand or mouth.
• Bite closure: The bite closure is rather rare. This variant is extremely leak-proof because to open the bottle, the user has to bite on a silicone valve that is integrated in the closure.

Subdivision according to the intended use

Depending on which drinks are to be filled into the new water bottle and where it is to be used, there are different types of water bottles. Of course, there are also universal models that are suitable for every purpose. Basically it is also no problem to fill the bottle for fruit juices only with water, but the special models have some special features that are particularly suitable for their purpose.

• Drinking bottle for fruit spritzer: Compared to a normal water bottle, this water bottle has an extra container in which fresh vegetables or fruit can be filled. The water flows through this container and takes on the taste of the fruit. Some nutrients can also be supplied to the body. Fruit spritzer drinking bottles are perfect for people who don't like pure water but still want to refresh themselves.
• Thermo-water bottle: Those who like hot drinks should buy a thermo-water bottle made of glass or stainless steel. Whether it's coffee, tea or cocoa, the insulated, double-walled cover of the bottles keeps the drink warm for a long time. A water bottle like this is the perfect replacement for the classic coffee-to-go cup because, in addition to the warming function, you can't spill anything with a thermal water bottle and thus avoid unattractive coffee stains. By the way, cold drinks in thermo-bottles stay cold longer.
• Water bottles for children: Children often spill their drinks and smaller children, in particular, cannot even drink from a normal bottle. That's why water bottles for children are in great demand. Often there are different attachments so that the water bottle can be adapted for each age.
• Water bottles for sports: Anyone who does sports has to drink a lot of fluids. However, many athletes, especially in endurance training, do not want to interrupt their unit. Special sports water bottles are therefore designed so that they can also be used during running, cycling, etc. without spilling anything. It is also often possible to attach the water bottles to your bike or your own body so that your hands are always free. They often have an ergonomic shape that makes it easier to grasp and hold the bottle.
• Water bottles with filter: Water bottles with filter function are recommended for particularly health-conscious people who want to make sure that there are no harmful substances in their drink. Viruses, bacteria, fungi, pesticides and heavy metals are filtered out of the water using a hollow fibre, activated carbon or ceramic filter.

Differentiation according to material

There are five different materials from which drinking bottles are normally made. Each material has certain advantages and disadvantages. A combination of different materials is also possible.

• Aluminium water bottles: Aluminium bottles are very light and do not contain BPA. However, the material is very susceptible to scratches and dents, which can lead to material detachment. It can also cause allergic reactions. Some studies also suggest that aluminium may be associated with Alzheimer's disease. To counteract this, most aluminium bottles are coated with a non-polluting plastic layer.
• Stainless steel water bottles: Stainless steel is a relatively light material that is very resistant, rust-free, dishwasher-safe and recyclable. Stainless steel water bottles are tasteless and BPA free. However, some models contain the allergenic substance nickel.
• Tritan water bottles: Tritan is light, heat resistant, shatterproof and dishwasher safe. It does not contain BPA. The problem with this material is that it is difficult to recycle.
• Plastic water bottles: These bottles are convincing due to their lightness and robustness. There are problems with recycling. In addition, not all plastics are free of BPA, which is why polycarbonate bottles, in particular, should be avoided. PET bottles are also not suitable as water bottles because they contain BPA and also ethanal, a carcinogenic substance. Polypropylene bottles, on the other hand, are free of harmful substances and therefore harmless to health.
• Glass water bottles: Glass contains no BPA, is recyclable, dishwasher safe and tasteless. Of all the materials presented, glass is the most harmless in terms of health aspects. Problems with glass drinking bottles are their relatively high weight and fragility, which pose a high risk of injury. To make glass bottles safer, they are partially coated with a BPA-free layer of plastic.

Differentiation according to special properties

• Foldable water bottles: This type is particularly light and space-saving because it can be folded or rolled up easily when empty. Only a small air valve needs to be actuated for the bottle to reopen.
• Leak-proof water bottles: Especially for people who want to carry the water bottle in their pocket all day, it is important that the water bottle is absolutely leak-proof. Although this should be the case for all models, models declared as leak-proof have a particularly tight closure.
• Water bottles with straws: It is sometimes very practical not only for children but also for adults to be able to drink with a straw. Special water bottles have a folding mouthpiece. This is a practical accessory, especially for drivers.
• Intelligent water bottles: Those who always drink too little can always be reminded by an intelligent water bottle. Among other things, this indicates the amount of liquid already drunk and calculates the personal fluid requirement.

Drinking's important. Everyone should drink at least 1.5 to 3 litres of liquid per day. At home, this is no problem, either you take the water directly from the tap or you have bottles from the supermarket there. On the way, however, this is more difficult. Who does not want to buy always new bottles, can fill the old ones again, however, the beverage from an old plastic bottle does not taste good after a time any more and glass bottles are often too fragile.

And this is where water bottles come into play. They are healthier than conventional plastic bottles because they often do not contain BPA (bisphenol A). This chemical can change the hormonal balance and cause health problems such as liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and diabetes. Plastic bottles that are exposed to high temperatures have a particularly high BPA content. But even if you make sure that no hot drinks get into the plastic bottle and that it is not in the sun or near radiators, the BPA value is harmful to health. Water bottles without BPA are definitely the better and healthier solution.

In addition, a water bottle does not have the problem of old deposit bottles being stacked at home or having to buy new and overpriced products all the time. Since water bottles are designed for multiple uses over many years, their use also protects the environment and produces less waste. Ultimately, a water bottle also ensures that sufficient liquid is absorbed throughout the day because there is no inhibition threshold due to high prices or bad taste.

By the way, it should not fail because of the price, because water bottles are available from just a few euros. Depending on how big the bottle should be and which material it is made of, the prices can be higher. For about 50 Euro, one gets already very good bottles that are of high quality and durable.

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