BPA-Free Reusable Water Bottles—Sports, Baby, SIGG, Klean Kanteen, Nalgene in Aluminum & Stainless Steel—Learn & Compare

Concerned consumers often ask: What is the difference between stainless steel bottles and aluminum bottles? Here is some helpful info from a reusable water bottle expert:

According to Elizabeth Borelli of Nubius Organics, there is not much difference between stainless steel and aluminum in terms of functionality, weight or durability. However, what distinguishes the two materials from each other is that untreated aluminum contains toxins which can leach into the container's liquid.

1) Aluminum

SIGG, one of the oldest and largest manufacturers of reusable aluminum bottles, actually lines their aluminum with an FDA approved coating that prevent toxins from leaching. To protect their customers, SIGG has performed extensive testing on their aluminum bottles to ensure both safety and stability.

SIGG, manufactured in Switzerland, is also a good choice for consumers who desire both form and function. With their seasonal-themed bottle collections, limited release products and artistic designs, SIGG has actually transformed ordinary water bottles into beautifully fashioned works of art.

If you're always on the go, SIGG has a nice selection of portable reusable water containers, such as thermos bottles, mugs and cups.

2) Stainless Steel

Reusable stainless steel bottles are somewhat of a two-edged sword. On one hand they don't require lining because their inert nature is non-leaching. On the other hand, they are very limited in terms of artistic design. However, Klean Kanteen, a major manufacturer of stainless steel water bottles, is about to sharpen up that dull edge by offering some exciting, new color choices.

One factor that is often considered by environmentally conscious consumers is the country in which a stainless steel bottle is manufactured. Currently, all stainless steel bottles on the market are manufactured in China, and there are issues regarding the working conditions of the Chinese laborers that concern some American consumers. Unfortunately, in the current global economy it is not cost-effective for US manufacturers to compete with their Chinese counterparts.

3) Other Options and Considerations

New Wave Enviro is one of the newer manufacturers of reusable bottles. They compete by offering lower prices, but are limited on their design selection. To compare SIGG, Klean Kanteen and New Wave Enviro, one would find all three fairly equal in terms of quality, but would have to conclude that SIGG and Klean Kanteen are ahead of their fledgling competitor in the diversity of interchangeable accessories and tops that they offer.

However, New Wave Enviro does offer a unique option: a Corn Resin Bottle that houses a Built-in Filter. These Corn Resin Bottles are made from 100% corn, which are designed to biodegrade in 80 days when they reach a commercial compost bin. This is a huge advantage over plastic, which virtually can't biodegrade.

Also, during their manufacturing process, Corn Resin Bottles don't emit the toxic chemicals that are typically emitted by the production of plastic bottles. And after manufacturing, Corn Resin Bottles (unlike conventional plastic bottles) won't leach Bisphenol A (BPA). BPA is an estrogen-type chemical that has been linked with breast cancer, the early onset of puberty and other health issues. It has especially become a topic of concern in regard to its affect on babies.

If you're looking for BPA-free baby bottles, then Green to Grow is an excellent choice. The more you learn about these eco-friendly baby bottles, the more comfortable you will feel about having your baby drinking from them.

4) Nalgene & Polycarbonates: BPA-free Alternatives

Nalgene reusable water bottles (as well as other hard plastic, reusable sports bottles) are made of polycarbonates, which are known to leach BPA. The new BPA-free Camelback bottles are an excellent alternative to Nalgene. Since these BPA-free bottles also contain a built-in straw, they are a good choice for children.

Elizabeth Borelli, who is often referred to as a Sustainability Evangelist, is the owner of Nubius Organics. The mission of Nubius Organics is to increase awareness of environmental issues, while offering eco-friendly, stylish solutions. Among the products offered by Nubius Organics are a wide selection of BPA-free reusable water bottles, which are manufactured by SIGG, Klean Kanteen, New Wave Enviro, Green to Grow, etc.