The best water bottles for kids don’t leak, are easy to clean, and are designed so that even a toddler can use them on their own. Luckily, there are many options out there to choose from. With so many on the market, it’s hard to know which to go for. Plus, it’s the perfect thing to slide into the side pocket of their backpack to ensure they stay hydrated all day long at school.
Finding the ideal water bottle for your child is essential for their hydration and convenience. Look for bottles designed with spill-resistant features like leak-proof caps or flip straws to minimize messes during active play or school. Additionally, opt for BPA-free materials to ensure the safety of your child’s drinking experience.
Consider water bottles with vibrant and fun designs that resonate with your child’s tastes and preferences. Many options on the market offer insulation to keep drinks cold or warm throughout the day, which can be a game-changer for school lunches or outdoor adventures. Prioritizing durability and ease of cleaning will help you select a water bottle that can withstand the demands of a busy kid’s lifestyle.
Out of all the child-sized vessels, many are just not built to live out the school year. Some are dishwasher-safe (amazing!), but others are not. Which should you get? StudyFinds did some digging and consulted 10 parental websites to bring you the best water bottles for kids. Is there one you have that has been holding steady forever? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
The List: Best Water Bottles For Kids, According To Expert Reviews
1. Thermos FUNtainer Stainless Steel Kids Water Bottle
On most expert lists, the Thermos FUNtainer keeps your little one hydrated with fresh, clean water and a hygienic-covered straw. “You can count on this vessel to keep water at your preferred temperature, making it an ideal choice for kiddos who need an ice-cold sip after recess or a refresher following gym class. And with fun character designs that run the range from the Avengers to Baby Shark, it’s sure to become a favorite item in your toddler’s lunch box,” offers The Bump.
It’s important to note that the FUNtainer’s lid has multiple parts, and you’ll need to use a straw brush to clean them thoroughly. If cleaning straws sounds daunting to you, replacement straws are available. “The Thermos FUNtainer is a double-walled stainless steel insulated water bottle that combines a sleek design and convenience. The insulation does an excellent job of keeping drinks cold for up to 12 hours (not for hot liquids), and the slender design is just right for little hands and nearly all cup holders. The lid button is user-friendly for straw access, and it closes easily without much pressure. The bottle uses quality materials and feels durable enough to last for several years,” states Baby Gear Lab.
Thermos knows you can’t have a kid’s thermos without adorably printed options for them to choose from. “The Thermos FUNtainer offers top-notch insulation that promises cool, refreshing water all day long—even during the dog days of summer. These Thermos FUNtainer picks are an affordable choice that comes with a flip straw and plenty of colors to choose from,” informs Today’s Parent.
2. YETI Rambler Jr. Kids Bottle
At first glance, the YETI Rambler Jr. appears similar to its contenders, but YETI is known for its high quality and durability. “Considering that kids frequently drop items (perhaps hundreds of times a day!), we think this factor matters. With powder-coated contenders or those with thinner material, falls onto hard surfaces can cause paint chips, scratches, dents, or even damage. Although nothing is bulletproof, we think YETI’s solid stainless steel base is noticeably strong among the lineup and most likely to survive falls and look fine,” suggests Baby Gear Lab.
Many sites admit to the YETI as an investment, but none regret it because it becomes a key part of the family’s hydration arsenal until they require something larger. “The Rambler Jr. comes in seven vibrant colors perfect for kids. There are three key features I like about it: the bottle’s ultra-sturdiness (it’s made of kitchen-grade stainless steel), the fact that it’s dishwasher-safe and that it has a wide mouth. These things make it easier to wash, easier to fill, and strong enough to withstand frequent tumbles. Yeti’s marketing materials say the stainless steel construction makes the bottle puncture- and rust-resistant, and I tend to believe it,” says Consumer Reports.
Just an FYI, the sturdy stainless steel of the YETI can easily withstand drops (and tantrum throws) without leaving a scratch or dent on its exterior. “I appreciate that there are just three parts—bottle, straw, lid—without the added insert that you’ll find in some kid’s water bottles. The wide handle is easy for little ones to grip. Plus, with a range of exterior shades available, kids can choose their favorite color and even customize it with stickers and monograms (if you’re shopping from the YETI site directly). Another nice feature: The bottle doesn’t sweat, so you don’t have to stress about it getting your bag wet,” says Forbes.
3. CamelBak Eddy + Kids
The CamelBak hit most lists of best water bottles for kids because it’s spill-proof. Let’s face it when it comes to kiddos, that’s a win-win. “If you’re looking for something that isn’t stainless steel but is lightweight and durable, the Eddy+ Kids is a solid option. This 14-ounce bottle has double-walled insulation and is made with Echo, a 10 percent renewable plant-based material. The Big Bite Valve, as CamelBak calls it, is made from medical-grade silicone,” says Consumer Reports.
The thicker spout-style straw top on the Camelbak Water Bottle makes it a perfect transition for toddlers outgrowing their sippy cups, while still catering to the older kids. “CamelBak is lightweight and packs neatly in a backpack or lunch bag. No hand washing is necessary—all the parts are dishwasher safe,” offers Today’s Parent.
Finally, a review that refers to a water bottle as budget-friendly. The CamelBak bottle helps your little ones’ hydration and your wallet. “In 2021, the body of the Camelbak Eddy Kids bottle was updated with a new eco-friendly plastic called Tritan Renew. The flip, bite, sip spout is spill-proof when it’s open, and leak-proof when it’s closed. No need to tip the bottle to drink, just flip, bite, and sip! Unfortunately, the spout is exposed to the elements even when closed, unlike the Contigo Kids-covered Autospout. While not a deal breaker, certainly something to consider. Whether it’s to drink in the car, take on a bike ride, or throw in a backpack, this affordable water bottle is ideal for your child’s everyday use,” informs Two Wheeling Tots.
4. Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Kids’ Water Bottle With Straw Lid
If you’re looking for a reusable water bottle for school that can keep your kiddo’s drink fresh through the end of the school day, this container is sure to deliver. “The kids’ insulated water bottle has a perforated silicone flex boot for easy gripping. At the end of the day, place the vessel in your dishwasher so it’s ready to go the next morning. How easy,” says The Bump.
Not only do Hydro Flask’s insulated bottles keep your child’s water ice cold for hours, but warm beverages also stay warm. “While some water bottles can require a little effort while sipping, this one has a fast flow, making it a great option for toddlers who can sometimes struggle with bite valves. It comes in a few fun, bright colors also in a 20-ounce version if you want something bigger,” offers Baby List.
The flip-top spout with straw makes for an easy drink with the Hydro Flask, while the silicone boot keeps your bottle snug in cup holders and protects it from getting scuffed up. One thing to note comes from Two Wheeling Tots, “Thanks to the double-wall, vacuum-insulated TempShield tech, the Kids Hydro Flask is the perfect choice if you’re looking to keep your drink cold for 24 hours. However, the double wall tech does make for a heavier bottle, an average of about 3.5 oz. more than other top bottles. If you’re planning to load up your backpack with multiple bottles for a hike, this extra weight could weigh you down on your adventure.”
5. Takeya Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle With Straw Lid
The days of replacing straws are over with this durable, stainless steel water bottle from Takeya. “The folding straw spout is made with thick BPA-free plastic and is practically bite-proof. The stainless steel is powder-coated to prevent sweating when filled with ice water and it has a big handle for easy carrying,” states Baby List.
One thing to keep in mind, while this bottle is great at keeping drinks cold, it will leak if tipped over when the spout is up. “The large and flexible handle is easy to hold and the screw top cap is rimmed with grippy silicone to make it easy to tighten and loosen with wet hands. The straw lid is easy to open and close with teeth, so there’s no cross-contamination with your hands,” offers USA Today.
Takeya has built quite a reputation for itself in the adult water bottle world. Its kids’ models are worthy of the same reputation. “The Takeya stainless steel kids water bottles come in 14- or 16-ounce sizes, offering a bit more capacity than your average 12-ounce kids bottle. Still, it feels fairly lightweight, weighing just 11.7 ounces, so it’s easier to carry than some of the heavier bottles on this list,” states Forbes.
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Sources:
- The Bump
- Baby List
- Baby Gear Lab
- Consumer Reports
- Today’s Parent
- Two Wheeling Tots
- USA Today
- New York Magazine
- NY Times
- Forbes
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.
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