Difference Between Aluminum and Stainless Steel Water Bottles

Aluminum vs Stainless Steel Water Bottles

Which is better – aluminum or stainless steal water bottles? The comparison can be done on weight, design, safety and cost. There is another comparison that can be done between aluminum and stainless bottles based upon customer feedback and comments about durability, wide mouths, toxins, ease of cleaning, insulation and condensation.

If we compare aluminum and stainless steel bottles on the basis of weight, then aluminum is lighter, and cools quicker. However, stainless steel is sturdier and heavier than aluminum. The choice depends on the decision of how likely the bottle is going to be roughly handled.

There are various types of stainless steel bottles, that are high-end bottles, made from 18/8 material. This represents the other metals present in the steel to make it an alloy, like 18/8 means 18% chromium and 8% nickel. Chromium is a durable and hard metal, and nickel has anti corrosive properties. Cheap stainless steal water bottles may be made of 18/0 material, which is why they are subject to rusting.

Let us compare both metal and alloy bottles, in terms of safety. The first thing we should find out about an aluminum water bottle is that it should be BPA free, and not contain any chemicals. If aluminum is a health risk or not is still under consideration – how dangerous or how safe aluminum is. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) has reported that people exposed to high levels of aluminum may develop Alzheimer’s disease, but they do not know for certain that aluminum causes Alzheimer’s disease. The Alzheimer’s Society also believes that no data or evidence has convincingly demonstrated a causal relationship between aluminum and Alzheimer’s disease. ATSDR also notes that oral exposure to aluminum on a long term basis has some adverse effects.

When compared to aluminum, old-fashioned stainless steel water bottles are considered safer. Stainless steel bottles do not leach chemicals. In context of safety measures, stainless steel is neutral, and does not need a lining like the aluminum bottles need. Aluminum bottles are lined to prevent the metal from leaching into the water. Stainless steel bottles do not impart a taste as aluminum bottles can if the lining inside is damaged or scratched.

The next difference between the bottles is the cost. Aluminum bottles are expensive when compared to stainless steel bottles. Now we can compare both bottles on behalf of their design and ease of use. Aluminum bottles are more stylish than stainless steel bottles. They are trendier and better looking. If we compare their ease of use, then stainless steel wins, as stainless steel bottles can be washed in a dishwasher with high a water temperature to prevent contamination with bacteria and viruses. Aluminum bottles need to be washed with care in order to avoid scratching of the inner protective lining. However, acidic drinks should not be stored in either of these bottles, since there is strong possibility of leaching and toxins, especially with aluminum bottles.

Summary:

1. Both bottles are compared, and the main difference is that steel bottles do not come with any lining or leaching, which makes them safer, but aluminum bottles have a protective layer, and can leach.

2. The cost comparison between aluminum and stainless steel bottles reveal that aluminum is more expensive than stainless steel.

3. Cheap stainless steel bottles may rust, and aluminum may leach and impart a taste.

4. Prolonged use of aluminum can create some adverse effects, but steel is reusable for a longer period, and is safer.

5. Aluminum bottles are trendy and better looking when compared to stainless steel bottles.

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