Here’s When You Should Really Replace Your Water Bottle

Reusable water bottles have been a game-changer for a lot of people. Not only are they pocket-friendly, but they are also good for the environment. As you may know, tons of waste ends up in the ocean, which can be dangerous to marine life. Piles of trash accumulate, which can also make the planet dirty and toxic. Plastics are usually the number one problem as they don’t decompose for many, many years (via Daily Infographic). Sad, but that is the reality.

Fortunately, many people are now well-aware of the earth’s trash situation. A lot of fitness enthusiasts now carry reusable water bottles instead of buying disposable ones, which makes up most of the plastic waste. According to the United Nations, “researchers estimate that more than 8.3 billion tonnes of plastic have been produced since the early 1950s. About 60% of that plastic has ended up in either a landfill or the natural environment.” Therefore, switching to reusable water bottles can help reduce the number of discarded, single-use bottles that contaminate our waterways.

Apart from being safe for the environment, reusable water bottles are also better for personal health, as they do not contain bisphenol A (BPA), a harmful chemical used in making plastic bottles (via the Mayo Clinic). There are various types of reusable bottles available on the market today. Some are made of glass, while some are made of BPA-free plastics, while others prefer stainless steel alternatives. Although most of the bottles now are crafted from high-quality materials, they still need replacement from time to time, too.

Should reusable water bottles be replaced after a year?

Have you ever thought about replacing your reusable water bottle? No? Well, despite being eco-friendly or BPA-free, consumers still need to replace their reusable products. Leanne Stapf, The Cleaning Authority’s CEO, told PopSugar that “plastic water bottles can start to break down after continued use and need to be replaced about once a year.” Gym-goers and other people with an active lifestyle tend to choose stainless steel or sturdy plastic water bottles compared to the glass variant. Although the latter can last longer, the material can break easily — definitely not suitable for running.

Replacement timing can also depend on the usage, so check your water bottle from time to time for wear and tear. Dr. Cedrina Calder, a preventive medicine physician in Nashville, also suggests watching out for any bad smells in the bottle — ones that, no matter how much you try cleaning, just won’t go away. “Also, when the lid or mouthpiece has gunk or buildup that you aren’t able to get to and remove with proper cleaning, or the plastic on the bottle has started to crack — this increases the chances that bacteria can collect within the cracks and grow,” she told the outlet. That said, make it a point to disinfect your water bottles regularly to keep them clean and free from bacteria and foul odors.

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