Reusable travel mugs: stainless steel vs plastic vs glass(1)

In our fast-paced world, we want to be able to enjoy a drink wherever we go. But society is fast becoming aware of the problems our used bottles are causing. Disposable water bottles are one of the biggest contributors to carbon gas emissions, landfill waste and ocean pollution. Last year, Americans used 50 billion plastic water bottles, wasting $1 billion worth of plastic.

In addition, these single-use plastic water bottles often contain harmful chemicals, such as BPA, which can leach into drinks and enter the body. This can cause serious health problems and may even lead to cancer and disease.

This is why more and more people are turning to reusable coffee and travel mugs. It's safer for the environment, your health and your wallet.

The most common materials used for "sustainable hydration" include stainless steel, plastic and glass. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each, and which type of reusable non-reclosable is right for you?

Stainless steel

Stainless steel is a popular material for reusable travel mugs. It is ideal for temperature sensitive liquids, is very durable and is one of the most recyclable materials for drinks. Overall, stainless steel is the most sustainable and healthiest option.

Advantages

Temperature: Stainless steel can maintain the desired temperature of liquids for hours. For example, our 30oz stainless steel glass can keep drinks cold for 24 hours and warm for 6 hours. Steel also doesn't "sweat" or condense on the outside, so there's no need for coasters or insulation. You don't have to worry about water rings in your car or on your desk.

Durability: Steel has the longest life cycle of any reusable material. Most stainless steel is made of chrome. When scratched, chromium will actually rebuild itself in the presence of oxygen. Chromium acts as a protective and healing layer, giving stainless steel bottles a long life cycle.

Safety: Steel is one of the safest materials available, which is why it is used in so many appliances. You also don't have to worry about it breaking or being damaged in extreme temperatures, making it the safest and most versatile reusable bottle.

Recyclable: every component of stainless steel can be separated, recycled and reused. In fact, it is one of the only materials that can be 100% recycled in the recycling process. This gives it a longer recycling life, which ultimately extends its use and reduces waste.

Cleanable: stainless steel is also the easiest material to clean. Plastic tends to contain more bacteria, while stainless steel is more resistant to harmful sticky substances.