Top Leak Proof Water Bottles for Kids

As we are getting ready for a new school year, I keep hearing moms ask what water bottles for kids does everyone use that won’t leak. We have had good luck with our favorites, so today I want to share what those are! Actually, it’s probably not luck but the fact that I’ve bought a lot of brands over the years to find the best of the best. And I have a long list of criteria for what I’m considering the best of the best.

Top Leak Proof Water Bottles for Kids

What makes a great water bottles for kids?

My list isn’t short! Here’s my criteria for the best water bottles I’ve found for the kids:

Dishwasher safe
BPA free
Holds 10 to 16 ounces of water (not too heavy for little hands)
Stays cold for at least a few hours during warm weather
Doesn’t leak
Fits in the side pocket of a backpack
Easy to clean
The kids can easily open/close the straw or drink part themselves
Minimal number of pieces to put back together
Durable: Can handle being used day after day without cracking, leaking, etc.
Come in my kids’ favorite colors or a variety of characters
Fit in the car seat cup holders

Best water bottles for kids

My kids have to bring a water bottle to school and camp, so ours get a lot of use throughout the year. Plus I always make sure to pack a water bottle for each of them when we’re on the go. My favorite water bottles for the kids come in a plastic or stainless steel option, with a variety of color and character choices. The tops and straws are interchangeable, which makes putting them away much easier.

In no particular order, here are what I consider the best water bottles for kids and why:

Simple Modern

TONS of colorful options and options featuring some favorite characters (Disney Princesses, Mickey, Paw Patrol)
Come in 10 oz and 14 oz sizes
Hard plastic spout and top are easy to clean
Dishwasher safe
Fits in backpack side pouch
Comes in stainless steel or plastic (see-through) bottles

Hydrapeak Mini

Hard plastic spout and top are easy to clean
Dishwasher safe
Fits in backpack side pouch
Can sometimes find these at TJ Maxx or Home Goods

Pottery Barn Kids

Come in 12 oz and 17 oz sizes
Dishwasher safe
Options featuring some favorite characters (Elsa, Mickey, Paw Patrol)
Fits in car seat cup holder and in backpack side pouch
Has a matching with backpack and lunch box
Stainless steel bottle

Make sure you label all of your water bottles so none of them get lost! I love these name labels, which have made it through 2 years of frequent use (and going through the dishwasher) without peeling off. If you have more than one child, make it easy on yourself and just put your last name on the labels so you aren’t hunting for the right bottle in the am!

Some things to keep in mind when you’re looking for a water bottle for kids:

Size and Portability

Kids have smaller hands and mouths than adults, which means they need water bottles that are smaller and easier to hold and drink from. Special water bottles for kids are typically smaller in size and come with features like spouts that are designed for kids to be able to drink easily.

Durability

Let’s face it, kids can be rough on their things. That’s why it’s important to choose a water bottle that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use (and the occasional dropping on asphalt). Water bottles for kids are often made from durable materials like BPA-free plastic or stainless steel, which can hold up to drops and spills.

BPA-Free Plastic

Plastic is a popular choice for kids water bottles because it is lightweight and affordable. But you should definitely look for water bottles made from BPA-free plastic, which is free from the harmful chemical bisphenol A. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical that has been linked to health problems such as cancer, obesity, and developmental issues. Some other types of plastic used in water bottles include Tritan, polypropylene, and LDPE.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a durable and long-lasting material that is easy to clean. We clean all of our water bottles with a special bottle brush. Stainless steel can be a great choice for kids who are rough on their water bottles. Look for stainless steel water bottles that are double-walled and vacuum insulated to keep drinks cold for longer periods of time.

Silicone Straws or Spouts

Silicone is a soft and flexible material that is often used for water bottle lids and spouts. It is safe and easy to clean, and it can withstand high temperatures without melting or warping. Look for water bottles with silicone spouts that are easy for kids to drink from.

Ease of Cleaning

A water bottle that is difficult to clean can harbor bacteria and other harmful germs. Look for water bottles that are easy to disassemble and clean, with no hard-to-reach crevices or small parts that can’t be removed. I like to use these bottle brushes to clean our water bottles with warm soapy water.

In summary, when choosing a water bottle for kids, it’s important to prioritize safety. Look for BPA-free bottles that are leak-proof and easy to clean to ensure that your child stays healthy and hydrated.

Some Other Top Brands of Kids Water Bottles

Here are some other top brands of kids water bottles that I recommend:

Stanley: You know I still love my Stanley tumblers! They make kid-sized bottles too if you have a little one who wants a water bottle just like yours.

CamelBak: CamelBak is a well-known brand that produces high-quality water bottles. Their bottles are made of durable materials and feature spill-proof designs that are perfect for children. The silicone spout is a favorite among the preschool group.

Nalgene: Nalgene is another popular brand that offers a wide range of water bottles for kids. Their bottles are made of BPA-free materials and are designed to withstand rough handling. The locking mechanism might be tough for the 3 and under crowd but with some practice they’ll get it!

Contigo: Contigo is a brand that specializes in producing spill-proof water bottles for kids. Their bottles are designed with a one-handed drinking mechanism and are made of durable materials that can withstand drops and bumps. I’ve found that littles (3 and under) have trouble with them because you need to push a button and drink at the same time, but 4+ shouldn’t have trouble!

Thermos: Thermos is a brand that has been around for over 100 years and is known for producing high-quality water bottles and food containers. Their water bottles for kids are made of BPA-free materials and feature vacuum insulation technology that keeps drinks cold for hours. They also use a silicone straw which isn’t my favorite for cleaning purposes, but kids seem to love them!

Klean Kanteen: Klean Kanteen is a brand that produces eco-friendly water bottles for kids. Their bottles are made of stainless steel and are free of harmful chemicals such as BPA and phthalates.

When choosing a water bottle for your child, it’s important to consider their needs and preferences. Whether they prefer a straw or a spout, a handle or a strap, there is a water bottle out there that will meet their needs.

Maintaining Kids Water Bottles

As a parent, I know how important it is to keep my child’s water bottle clean and hygienic. Here are some tips for maintaining your kid’s water bottle:

Wash regularly: Make sure to wash your child’s water bottle regularly, ideally after every use. Use warm soapy water and a bottle brush to clean the inside of the bottle thoroughly. Rinse it well and let it air dry before using it again.
Avoid the dishwasher: While some water bottles are dishwasher safe, it’s best to avoid putting them in the dishwasher. The high heat can damage the bottle and its components, and the bottle may not get cleaned as thoroughly as it would with hand washing.
Replace worn out parts: If your child’s water bottle has replaceable parts such as straws or lids, make sure to replace them regularly. Over time, these parts can wear out and become less effective at keeping the bottle clean and leak-free. I’ve also found that it’s nearly impossible to replace JUST the caps or JUST the bottles… You basically have to repurchase the item completely.
Check for leaks: Regularly check your child’s water bottle for leaks. If you notice any cracks or damage, it’s best to replace the bottle to avoid any potential safety hazards.

This should help you keep your kids’ water bottles clean and ready to use!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when choosing a water bottle for my child?

When choosing a water bottle for your child, it’s important to consider factors like size, durability, and ease of use. Look for a bottle that is the appropriate size for your child’s age and needs, and that is made from materials that are safe and long-lasting.

Are there any water bottles for kids that don’t have straws?

Yes, there are many water bottles for kids that don’t have straws. Some popular options include bottles with flip-top lids or screw-on caps, or bottles with spouts that can be opened and closed with a simple push or pull.

What are some popular brands of kids’ water bottles?

Some popular brands of kids’ water bottles include CamelBak, Nalgene, Contigo, and Thermos. These brands offer a range of sizes, styles, and designs to suit different needs and preferences.

Is a stainless steel water bottle a good choice for a toddler?

Yes, a stainless steel water bottle can be a good choice for a toddler, as these bottles are durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean. Look for a bottle with a child-friendly design and a spout or straw that is easy for your child to use.

What size water bottle is appropriate for school-aged children?

The appropriate size for a water bottle for a school-aged child will depend on their individual needs and preferences. Some children may prefer a smaller bottle that is easy to carry and drink from, while others may need a larger bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. As a general rule, a bottle that holds between 12-16 ounces of water is a good choice for most school-aged children.

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