What are the Safest Reuseable Sports Containers for Water?

Storing water in reusable plastic containers is an easy way to always have a drink on the go. Whether you are taking water to the gym, to your desk at work or just keeping it handy in your purse, a ready supply of water is always a good thing. It's important to be careful as to what types of containers the water is being stored in, as they can leach chemicals into the water. Generally speaking, it is not advised to expose plastic containers to high amounts of heat.

High-Density Polyethylene Containers

• High-density polyethylene containers are uncommonly found and used, but they are great containers for safely holding water and they are recyclable. HDPE containers are available with some Internet searching.

Polyethylene Terephthalate Containers

• Polyethylene terephthalate containers are common and safe for one- or two-time use. They are also recyclable. PET containers should only be used once or twice in most cases because they are rather thin.

Low-density Polyethylene Containers

• Low-density polyethylene containers are made from the same plastic that is used in plastic shopping bags. These are safe because they do not leach chemicals.

Look For The Numbers

• Read the outside of the plastic container before buying it. In addition to the type of material used, each one will contain a number. The number is the best way to make sure that you are getting a safe container. Code numbers 1, 2, 4 and 5 are the safest. Stay away from code numbers 3, 6 and 7.

Where to Go

• Visit sporting goods stores to buy any of these containers. Sporting goods stores offer these products because the market for beverage containers is largest with athletes.