When it comes to the water, not only the quality of the water matters but also the bottle. The material of the bottle is also important to assess the safety of the water. We buy water bottles based on the colour, design, sturdiness and price. We never bother about the material and we end up with plastic water bottles.
Most of the plastic bottles are made up of PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) or with recycling code 1. These bottles tend to leach chemicals on high temperature. They release toxic elements like antimony. Hence, avoid leaving such bottles in direct sunlight or in hot places like car during summer. Some of the brands use higher grades of plastics. And the main concern in them is presence of a toxic compound – BPA ( Bisphenol-A). BPA can mess up our system. They might disrupt the hormone system causing early puberty, thyroid problem, infertility etc. High levels of BPA may be linked to heart diseases, behavioral changes in young children, lower immunity, diabetes, obesity, disorders of reproductive, neuroendocrine system and the list goes on.
There are many good alternative options available in the market nowadays. Such as,
1. Steel water bottles: Easy maintenance, user friendly, leak proof, sturdy, medium budget. Not to confuse with aluminium bottles.
2. Clay water bottle: Leak proof, keeps the water cool, medium budget, easy maintenance but fragile.
3. Glass water bottle: Leak proof, medium budget, easy maintenance but fragile.
4. Copper water bottle: Leak proof, sturdy, high budget, improves the quality of the water (good for health), but maintenance is not easy (as cleaning the bottle needs extra attention).
5. Recently, usage of bamboo bottles are also seen in some places,though very sparingly.
Even after having so many good alternatives and still want to continue with plastic, then a few guidelines.
There are some brands of bottles specifically mentioning it’s ‘BPA Free’.
It’s wise to look in to BPA free ones, and opt for a good brand.
Do not use the same bottles for years no matter what brand it is. Stop using the bottle when it starts losing its shine or looks dull or if any scratches. When these sign are observed there are more chance of chemical leaching.
At last, do not expose to the direct sunlight.
Plastic bottles are harmful to both the nature and our body.
