When is the last time you thought about your single-use plastic consumption? I hadn’t until I was sitting in an airport recently. I was amazed at the number of people with plastic water bottles and the few people using reusable water bottles. So I decided to do a little reading and learn a little more about water bottle consumption.
Are you sitting down? Americans buy about 50 billion water bottles per year, averaging about 13 bottles per month for every person in the United States, with 91% of plastic not being recycled. By using a reusable water bottle, each of us could save an average of 156 plastic bottles annually. Additional food for thought: Humans use about 1.2 million plastic bottles per minute, which is mind-blowing and a great reason to start using reusable water bottles.
So how do you choose? Choose the type you are most likely going to be consistent with carrying in all areas of your daily life.
Reusable plastic
- Look for BPA free
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Comes in different shapes and sizes, suitable for kids to adults
- Dishwasher safe
- Not insulated, no temperature control, do sweat in higher temperatures
- Can absorb odors and may grow mold if not cleaned properly
- Needs to be replaced every few years
- Top choice: Blender Bottle
Glass
- Comes in different shapes and sizes
- Does not retain odors
- Dishwasher safe
- Heavier to carry, not kid friendly
- Easily breakable, shorter life-span
- Difficult temperature control in warm weather
- Top choice: Contigo Purity
Aluminum
- Comes in different shapes and sizes
- Affordable
- Usually dishwasher safe, check label
- Lightweight and easy to carry, kid friendly
- Dents easily, but is durable and will last a long time
- Difficult temperature control in warm weather
- Top Choice: SIGG
Stainless Steel
- Comes in different shapes and sizes
- More expensive
- Usually dishwasher safe (check label)
- Heavier to carry, not kid-friendly
- Superior temperature control for hot/cold beverages
- Top Choice: S’well, Hydro Flask
And if you forgot your reusable water bottle (like I have before), look for water bottled in glass, aluminum or recyclable plastic. When done with the bottle, seek out a trash receptacle labeled for recycling.
Want to work with a Hy-Vee dietitian? Go to our Hy-Vee dietitian website; from there you will find the dietitian who covers your area and can move forward with setting up an appointment for a FREE Discovery Session. This session allows us to learn more about your health and wellness goals and discover which of our many services will be the best fit for your needs.
*The blog articles, recipes and recommendations found on this site are not intended as medical advice and should not replace consulting with your medical provider. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
