From WIRED · Boutayna Chokrane · · 2m
We're Picky About Water Bottles. You Should Be Too
WIRED tests reusable water bottles for taste, durability, and eco-impact.
In brief
WIRED tests reusable water bottles for taste, durability, and eco-impact. WIRED reviews top reusable water bottles for taste, durability, and environmental impact. Originally reported by WIRED.
Quick answers
- How Much Water Do I Need?
- The eight-glasses rule isn’t exactly accurate, but it’s a solid starting point.
- How Do Insulated Bottles Work?
- Insulated bottles use double-wall construction with insulating materials to prevent heat transfer.
- How Should I Wash My Water Bottle?
- Hand-wash bottles to avoid mold, bacteria, and odors from straws and mouthpieces.
- What is the key takeaway from We're Picky About Water Bottles. You Should Be Too?
- WIRED reviews top reusable water bottles for taste, durability, and environmental impact.
Why Reusable Bottles Matter
Reusable water bottles are a matter of personal taste, and WIRED reviewers have strong opinions on which jug reigns supreme.
One Bottle Suffices
You only need one reusable bottle (though I won’t judge if you rotate between two).
Lead Solder Warning

Some water bottle companies use lead soldering to manufacture their vacuum-sealed bottles.
Hydro Flask Standard

Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle: $38 Amazon, available in 15+ colors, no flavor transfer or metallic aftertaste.
Owala FreeSip Sway
Owala FreeSip Sway: $35 Amazon (30-oz), triple-layer insulation, free sip spout with built-in straw.
Nalgene Sustain Tritan
Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle: $17 $16 (6% off) Amazon, wide-mouth with screw-cap design.
Larq Bottle PureVis
Larq Bottle PureVis: $99 Amazon, purevis technology eliminates up to 99 percent of bio-contaminants.
Brita Premium Filter
Brita Premium Filtering Water Bottle: $29 Amazon, bpa-free, wqa certified, straw can be a hassle to clean.
Owala FreeSip Tumbler
Owala FreeSip Tumbler (40 ounces): $45 Amazon, triple-layer insulated, free sip spout with built-in straw.
Ocean Bottle Original
Ocean Bottle Original (17 ounces): $42 Amazon, 90 percent recycled stainless steel, funds 25 pounds ocean-bound plastic.
Path Refillable Bottles
Path Refillable Water Bottles: $54 Amazon (12-pack of 20-oz bottles), aluminum, easily dented.
More Bottles to Consider
Bentgo Lift Chug Lid for $30: ring handle that sits atop the mouthpiece, comfortable to hold.
Avoid These Bottles
Water.io Daily+ for $100: tracks sips but short battery life, metallic aftertaste.
How Much Water Do I Need?
The eight-glasses rule isn’t exactly accurate, but it’s a solid starting point.
How Do Insulated Bottles Work?
Insulated bottles use double-wall construction with insulating materials to prevent heat transfer.
How Should I Wash My Water Bottle?
Hand-wash bottles to avoid mold, bacteria, and odors from straws and mouthpieces.
What matters most
WIRED reviews top reusable water bottles for taste, durability, and environmental impact.




