What is the difference between my stainless steel bottle and a plastic bottle?
All our stainless steel bottles at Vanilla Mummy have a double or triple wall to make them insulated. This means they will maintain the temperature of the liquid that you put inside them (hot or cold) for several hours. This also makes them a bit more bulky and heavier than a plastic bottle. Stainless steel water bottles also won’t smash or crack as plastic or glass bottles can, making them safer to carry on the go
Are stainless steel water bottles safe?
Stainless steel water bottles are very safe! They don’t contain any nasty chemicals such as BPA which should be avoided in food contact items. As they don’t contain chemicals, they won’t leach any into the environment, in fact the elements they contain actually benefit the earth, should they eventually break down.
How long do stainless steel water bottles last?
Stainless steel water bottles are highly durable and will potentially serve you well over years of use, which makes them a good choice as an environmentally friendly product. Like most things, the durability of your stainless steel water bottle really depends on how you look after it. If it’s washed, dried and stored correctly, and not continually dropped or misused, it will last several years. However, if you don’t wash it or constantly bash it about, it won’t have such a long life!
Can stainless steel water bottles be recycled?
Eventually if you tire of your stainless steel water bottle or you need to replace it, it most definitely can be recycled. In fact, stainless steel is 100% recyclable. This makes it a sustainable and environment friendly product.
The fact that it can be easily and infinitely recycled also means that fewer of the earth’s natural resources are used - if most of the stainless steel that we use is recycled, much less needs to be made from scratch. The production process for stainless steel has also been improved so that there is as little waste as possible
How long can you keep water in stainless steel water bottles?
Stainless steel bottles are less likely to harbour bacteria, so if the bottle is closed, your water will stay safe inside the bottle for days or more. However, unless you’re on an adventure expedition or a desert hike, you’re unlikely to need to store it for anything beyond a day. It’s recommended that, for ordinary usage, you should empty your water bottle each day, wash it and allow to dry thoroughly.
How long do drinks stay hot/cold in stainless steel water bottles?
If your stainless steel water bottle is double wall insulated then drinks can stay hot or cold for up to 12 hours. This is very useful on hot summer days, when using water for sports and for warm drinks in the wintertime. The length of time that it will maintain the temperature will depend on several factors: the brand, the size, the type of lid and how often you open and close the bottle. Below is some information on Maximum temperature retention of the bottles at Vanilla Mummy:
- box insulated 350ml: 8 hours cold, 6 hours warm
- box insulated 500ml: 15 hours cold, 8 hours warm
- box insulated 1 litre: 46 hours cold
- MontiiCo fusion with flask lid: 24 hours cold, 8 hours warm
Can you put ice in stainless steel water bottles?
Yes you can put ice cubes in the bottle and in fact this will keep the water colder for longer. Always leave space for the water when the ice cubes have melted. The key is to open your bottle as little as possible if you want your ice to last as long as possible!
What is the best way to clean my stainless steel bottle?
You should wash your water bottle by hand, in warm, soapy water, taking care to clean the inside and any lids or spouts thoroughly, rinsing well. The bottle should then be left to air dry; the lid should not be put back on the bottle until everything is completely dry. You should always store your bottle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, preferably with the lid removed.
How often should I wash stainless steel water bottles?
It is important to wash your Stainless steel water bottles after each use, and before use if the bottle is new. If your bottle has been stored for a long time without using it, it’s best to wash and dry thoroughly before you use it again. This will ensure that your water bottle stays clean, fresh and ready for your drinks.
Are stainless steel water bottles dishwasher safe?
This will depend on the bottle you have purchased. Always check the labels and packaging to be sure if your bottle is dishwasher safe. If in doubt, it’s always better to wash by hand.
- box insulated bottles 350ml and 500ml: top rack dishwasher safe. Those with prints are recommended handwash only
- box insulated flip top bottles 690ml and 1 litre: top rack dishwasher safe
- MontiiCo Fusion bottles: top rack dishwasher safe
Can my stainless steel water bottle go mouldy?
Stainless steel water bottles should not usually get mouldy with proper care. However, any surface can potentially get mouldy if you don’t wash and dry it thoroughly.
Stainless steel water bottles should be washed well in hot, soapy water after each use; you should leave your water bottle upside down with the lid off to drain properly and air dry. Never put the lid back on if there is still moisture in the bottle. Ensure that you store your stainless steel water bottles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Then your water bottle will be clean and ready for the next use!
Can my stainless steel bottle rust?
It is a common misconception that stainless steel never rusts, because despite its name, stainless steel can in fact rust under certain conditions. The level of corrosion resistance it has, varies depending on the grade of stainless steel and the environment that it is used in. Even marine grade 316 stainless steel can develop rust stains without proper cleaning and maintenance. While stainless steel is more corrosion-resistant (resistant to rust) than regular steel due to its chromium content, it is not completely immune. When chromium is added to steel, it forms a thin, inert protective layer of chromium oxide on the surface that prevents oxygen and moisture from reaching the underlying iron. This layer is self-healing, meaning if it gets scratched, more chromium from the steel will react with oxygen to re-form the protective coating.
Factors like exposure to chlorides (especially in high concentrations like in salt water or some cleaning products), high temperatures, and lack of oxygen can cause the protective chromium oxide layer to break down, allowing rust to form. Lack of oxygen prevents the self-healing of the chromium oxide layer, so stainless steel may rust in low-oxygen environments like underwater or inside crevices and tight spaces where air can't circulate to maintain the passive layer. Common acidic foods and drinks like citrus juices, vinegar, and cola can gradually wear down the passive layer over time.
In Malta, high level of salinity and chlorine in tap water and high humidity levels, make stainless steel more prone to rusting, so daily cleaning and drying is essential. Regular cleaning is normally enough to keep your water bottle free from rust. This is particularly important if using the bottle for beverages other than water. One of the most important steps in its everyday cleaning, is to ensure that the bottle is air dried completely at the end.
How can I prevent rust in my stainless steel bottle?
Here are some maintenance tips to help prevent rust from forming on your stainless steel water bottle:
- Rinse your bottle with clean water after each use, especially if you filled it with liquids other than water like juice or coffee. Residual sugars and acids can accelerate corrosion if left to sit in the bottle.
- Dry your bottle thoroughly with a clean cloth or let it air dry completely before sealing it with the cap. Trapped moisture creates an ideal environment for rust to develop.
- Avoid storing your bottle in humid areas or leaving water in it for extended periods. If you won't be using it for a while, leave the cap off to allow air circulation.
- Clean your bottle regularly with warm water and mild dish soap using a soft brush or cloth. For tough stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Avoid harsh abrasives that may damage the surface.
- Don't let your bottle sit in a puddle of water or leave it in the sink. Exposure to standing water can lead to rust, especially on the bottom of the bottle.
- Inspect your bottle periodically for any signs of damage or corrosion. Dents, cracks, or deep scratches can compromise the protective chromium layer.
By following these simple maintenance practices, you can significantly extend the life of your stainless steel water bottle and keep it in rust-free condition for years of reliable hydration.
Can I remove rust which has already formed on my stainless steel bottle?
Although rust inside the bottle is not dangerous, it can create an unpleasant smell/taste. Rust can generally be removed if it is treated early. Minor surface rust can often be removed using gentle abrasives with one of the methods described below:
Baking Soda + water paste: Baking soda is a non-abrasive cleaning agent that can gently lift rust away from stainless steel objects. Spread the paste on rusty parts and allow to sit for at least 1 hour. Use a sponge or wire brush to scrub off the rust. For rust inside the bottle, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 cup of water inside the bottle, close the cap and shake for several minutes. Finally wash the bottle with warm water and soap. Leave to dry upside down and wipe off as much water as you can.
Lemon Juice: Mix equal parts lemon juice and baking soda to form a paste. Coat the rust with the paste and let it sit for 30 minutes. Use a damp sponge to remove the rust away. Then wash.
Coarse Salt: Pour salt into the bottle and add hot water (you may also add vinegar). Close the lid and shake for several minutes. Empty and wash with warm water and soap.
White Vinegar Submerge your stainless steel bottle in a bowl of distilled white vinegar overnight. Then use steel wool or a sponge to scrub the rust off. You can also soak a cloth in white vinegar then use it to scrub the rust vigorously.
What can’t I put in my stainless steel bottle?
Avoid using your bottle for the following:
Carbonated Drinks and very hot liquids: carbonated beverages should not be placed in the insulated bottle to avoid the danger of rising internal pressure, causing the bottle to fail to open or the contents to spray out
Liquids high in salt: Both the salt and the chloride in the salt can corrode the protective layer of stainless steel causing it to rust.
Warm milk and dairy: this is not recommended since microorganisms in the milk to multiply rapidly at the right temperature, leading to spoilage and infection.
Some other tips to take care of your bottle:
- When your bottle is not in use, dry it instantly
- Try to use non-abrasive tools for everyday cleaning
- Avoid using it for hard water (normal tap water) which leaves a layer of minerals and salts.
- Protect the bottom of your bottle from hits and dents. If possible use a bumper.
5. Maintain a daily cleaning routine for your water bottle - Every now and then give it a deep clean with vinegar and baking soda
- If you will not be using the bottle for a while, put in some silica gel packets inside to remove moisture
- Be kind to your bottle and treat it well 😊 . Bumps and dents can increase the chance of rusting.