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Getting a UV water bottle is a great way to keep your water tasting fresh and safe by eliminating bacteria and viruses residing in it. Water, the most important drink to keep the body hydrated and kicking, needs to be pure and clean since it flows through our organs and cells. Otherwise, it can cause many health problems, and we don’t want that now, do we?
- Top 5 UV Water Bottles
- What is A UV Water Bottle?
- The Best Self-Cleaning UV Water Bottles – The List
- Factors to Consider When Buying a UV Water Bottle
- Benefits of Using a UV Water Bottle
- Maintenance and Care Tips for UV Water Bottles
- Limitations of UV Technology (e.g., it does not remove heavy metals or chemicals)
- Safety Concerns Related To UV Exposure
- Testimonials and Reviews from Users
- Some Frequently Asked Questions
- Cleaner water for better health
Top 5 UV Water Bottles
What is A UV Water Bottle?
But what’s the science behind it? These ultraviolet (UV) powered, self-sanitizing water bottles use UV technology to purify water and destroy any microbes living in it, unlike most kinds of filtered water bottles, which tend to trap pathogens, sediment, and other impurities with filters.
Reusable water containers often come in shapes and sizes that can be quite challenging to clean with your standard dishwashing tools. Special bottle brushes and cleaners are aplenty, and sterilizing your bottles can be troublesome, if not messy. Still, with a UV bottle, you’ll never have to clean your reusable water bottle or worry about whether your water is full of contaminants regardless of the source, even if it’s tap or store-bought.
The Best Self-Cleaning UV Water Bottles – The List
So it’s time to ditch your boring old water bottles and get your very own self-cleaning water bottle. You won’t need to look further; we’ve got you covered. We’ve picked five of the best UV water bottles in the market just for you.
Let’s start with our favorite bottleâ¦
1. UVBrite Beam Self-Cleaning UV Water Bottle
Getting a good self-cleaning water bottle is a worthy investment to achieve good health, and the UVBrite Beam Self-Cleaning UV Water Bottle, for all that it has to offer, makes a good value for your money. This wonder bottle lets you purify your drinking water anytime, anywhere, with just a simple press of a button.
This bottle prides itself in its intelligent self-cleaning mode goes on every 4 hours to ensure the bottle and water inside are constantly purified. It’s equipped with a UV-C LED light located in the cap, which effectively sanitizes water in as fast as 90 seconds. This purification system helps break down chemical bonds and destroys the structure of DNA, RNA, and proteins, effectively killing the microorganisms, mold, bacteria, and viruses present in the water by up to 99.99%. It also has a safety lock feature that prevents any risk of UV-C light exposure.
Truly the perfect travel buddy, the UVBrite Beam bottle’s double-walled, vacuum-sealed, and insulated stainless steel build helps maintain temperature, keeping the water inside hot or cold for more than 12 hours. Best of all, it’s BPA and mercury-free to ensure maximum drinking safety.
Pros:
- Great price point
- Round-the-clock purification system
- Chemical, mercury, and toxic-free
- Can hold more water compared to other bottles
- Elegant, classy design
- Temperature control
- Lightweight, portable, and easy to use
Cons:
- Does not destroy sediment or other particles
2. LARQ Bottle PureVisâ¢
The founder of all self-cleaning bottles, the LARQ PureVIs Bottle’s antimicrobial power is one for the books. It neutralizes 99.9999% of any waterborne germs, bacteria, and viruses like E. Coli and Salmonella by using innovative non-toxic patented UV-C LED technology to purify water and clean the bottle’s inner surfaces by destroying odor-causing bacteria and viruses by damaging the nucleic acids in their DNA. All of that works at the mere touch of a button. It also self-cleans by intelligently activating every 2 hours to maintain the bottle’s freshness and keep it from smelling funky inside.
Whether you want your water cool or warm for a long road trip ahead, LARQ does not disappoint! The bottle’s double-wall vacuum insulated stainless steel material keeps the water chilled for about 24 hours and hot for up to 12. You also won’t have to worry about you getting accidentally exposed to UV-C light when you remove the cap since the bottlecap includes safety deactivation measures to prevent such an instance.
Best of all, LARQ bottles are BPA (bisphenol A), mercury, and plastic-free, so it’s safe for everyone to use and drink from. It also does not need any replacement filters.
Pros:
- Efficacy attested by third-party testing
- Chemical, mercury, and toxic-free
- Sleek, eye-catching sci-fi look
- Temperature control
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Price is relatively higher compared to other brands
- Heaviness
- Purification system does not remove particles or sediment
3. CrazyCap 2
If you’re a person who’s into exploring the great outdoors, you’re going to need a trusty self-cleaning water bottle like the CrazyCap 2. You get to reduce a lot of plastic waste and enjoy clean, purified water.
Many third-party laboratories have tested and verified the CrazyCap 2’s self-cleaning system’s efficacy. This flask sports innovative UV light rays with the same wavelength as those used in disinfecting hospital facilities, water treatment plants, and other industrial uses. Every 4 hours, the UV rays automatically activate to eliminate 99.99% of microbes and pathogens, keeping both water and bottle free of bacteria, viruses, molds, and funky odors in just a minute (or even up to 2 minutes for deeper cleaning)
Thanks to its 304 stainless steel build with double-walled vacuum insulation, the bottle delivers reliable thermal performance that keeps the water hot for up to 12 hours or icy cold for up to an entire day. The build and the matte texture also make it easy to grasp or hold without slipping off easily.
Pros:
- Effective water sterilization system
- Price-friendly
- Faster at sterilizing water and bottle
- Activates with just a simple tap
- 10-year limited warranty
- Convenient installment plan
- Easy-grip
Cons:
- Lid tends to be sensitive and can activate by itself even when held
- Bottle opening is narrow, so it may be harder to fill
4. LINK UV-C Water Bottle
Tired of empty water bottles cluttering your bag all the time? Switch to the LINK UV-C Self Cleaning Water Bottle, where function follows form. Not only do you get a portable, reusable bottle, it also successfully eliminates 99.9% of bacteria and viruses in your water using the purifying power of UV-C light whenever you’re off to work, the gym, or a road trip out of town.
The purification process starts with just a push of a button and lasts for just 60 seconds! This LINK water flask uses patented 275 NM LED UV-C lights to sterilize and eradicate waterborne bacteria and viruses from within by destroying their DNA. But LINK’s magic doesn’t stop there; not only will it keep your water bottle bacteria-free, but the double-wall vacuum insulation will keep your water cold for up to 18 hours or hot for about 8 hours.
The bottle’s battery power is also energy-efficient since a single charge can last up to 80 uses, making it perfect for long-hour trips anywhere. The bottle’s color and texture complement and go well with various fashion styles. So what’s not to like about this bottle?
Pros:
- Portable and compact
- Easy to use
- Long battery lifespan
- Aesthetic appeal
- Affordable
- Supplier ships in a matter of days
Cons:
- Bottle size is smaller compared to other brands
5. UV Self-Cleaning Bottle
Don’t start on your outdoor journey without the UV Self-Cleaning Bottle. Whether tap, lake, or river water, this handy UV water bottle from Sharper Image can certainly do its germicidal magic regardless of your water’s source. Make this bottle a part of your must-haves the next time you go camping or hiking in the mountains.
The self-cleaning feature has two cycles to ensure the cleanliness of both water and bottle. Once the water sanitation process starts, the 278 NM LED UV lights built in the bottle cap immediately get activated and purify water as fast as 1 minute for ordinary tap water, and 2 minutes for lake water to fully reduce germs by up to 99.9% without using heat, chemicals, or any kind of substance. At the same time, the double-wall vacuum insulation maintains your desired water temperature for long hours.
The bottle’s solid metal build and sleek and sturdy design are definitely worth noting. Its battery life can last up to 7 days on a single charge, making it ideal for emergencies.
Pros:
- Affordability
- Long battery lifespan
- Solid and sturdy build
- Modern, chic design
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Size smaller compared to most UV bottles.
Factors to Consider When Buying a UV Water Bottle
When opting for a UV water bottle, here are some factors you should take into consideration before settling for one in mind:
- Bottle capacity – Size matters when choosing your UV bottle’s capacity. It’s best to choose a larger-sized bottle if you tend to drink a lot on the go, but a smaller bottle would be more convenient, space-wise.
- Material and build quality – A good quality bottle should be made of strong and durable thermoplastic, like high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Avoid anything with PVC because they prevent UV light from penetrating the inner surfaces of the bottle. An exterior made of quality and durable steel can resist corrosion, rust, and breakages.
- Battery life and charging speed– A device’s battery life is one key feature of any gadget. Choosing a UV bottle with a longer battery life means having lesser worries about charging, and a fast-charging bottle saves you more time.
- UV-C light wavelength and effectiveness – The bottle’s UV-C light wavelength defines its ability to penetrate deep into the container and destroy dangerous microorganisms, mold, bacteria, and viruses in the water. According to experts, the ideal wavelength ranges from 250 to 270 nm.
- Purification speed and cycle frequency – Most UV bottles have a self-cleaning mode that goes on every couple of minutes or hours, though some have manual options that purify the water in less than a minute.
- Insulation and temperature control – The bottle’s insulation and temperature matter, especially if you’re particular about keeping your bottle hot or cold for hours. A bottle with double vacuum insulation can keep your water’s temperature for up to 18 hours.
- Product warranty – A warranty ensures product quality and allows you to seek repairs or even replace a bottle altogether (all according to the product’s terms and conditions)
Benefits of Using a UV Water Bottle
Having a UV water bottle can come in handier and offer more safety than the standard water bottle. Here’s why:
- Reduced exposure to harmful bacteria and viruses – The UV-C LED light kills dangerous waterborne bacteria and microorganisms to improve its quality, making it safer and healthier to drink.
- Eco-friendliness and reduction of plastic waste – Owning a UV water bottle helps reduce the need for plastic waste and lets you save money in the long run.
- Convenience and ease of use – Aside from purifying water, UV bottles offer convenience by removing the frequent need for washing and scrubbing the interior, and they’re usually compact and lightweight.
Maintenance and Care Tips for UV Water Bottles
Here’s how you can maintain your UV water bottle to ensure its longevity and effectiveness:
When cleaning the bottle and cap
Once you’ve received your UV bottle, wash it first before using it. To clean the bottle, simply wash the bottle with soap and warm water and wipe the mouth area. Since it’s used mainly for water, you won’t have to clean it so often unless it’s been a long time or if you use it for other beverages. You can also clean it while you charge the bottle cap.
Regarding the bottle caps, you can wash them with mild soap and water or an alcohol wipe, but while the UV caps are generally waterproof, they should not be submerged in water at any time.
When storing and handling the bottle
Since UV bottles are designed for handwashing, never put them in the dishwasher. Avoid putting the bottles in the freezer, microwave, or in extreme temperatures to prevent possible damage.
When charging the battery according to manufacturer guidelines
Upon receiving the bottle, charge the lid before using it. Some bottles may require up to 2 hours to fully recharge.
Limitations of UV Technology (e.g., it does not remove heavy metals or chemicals)
UV bottles should only be used in clearing slightly cloudy water from bodies of water that are not heavily polluted (or as per the manufacturer’s specifications) since the UV light must fully penetrate the water inside to kill all waterborne organisms. When water is muddy or murky, the light cannot penetrate through and eliminate the waterborne bacteria and viruses. It also doesn’t work on water with sediment and other particles.
The technology also won’t work on other beverages like juices, coffee, or soft drinks.
Safety Concerns Related To UV Exposure
UV sterilization is safe and does not add any chemicals or change the taste of the water. Most UV bottle caps have a safety feature that prevents the purification process from starting while the cap is not screwed on the bottle.
However, it’s important to avoid directly looking at or directing the UV onto the skin, as continued exposure could damage eyesight or cause skin problems.
Testimonials and Reviews from Users
To help you give an idea of what the UV bottle experience feels like, we’ve compiled some of the verified reviews for each product we’ve featured in this article:
Jet H. has this to say about the quality and the assurance her UVBrite Beam Self-Cleaning UV Water Bottle brings her:
“I love my water bottle! I have bought so manyâ¦and never been happy with any of them. I still kept buying them all not knowing what I was looking for. Until this bottle, my search has come to an end. Drinking water from this bottle gives me peace of mind knowing it’s completely sanitized and yet doesn’t change the taste or smell. I’m very happy with my purchase⦔
Stanley C., a frequent backpacker, tells us how he’s loving the LARQ UV Bottle and the convenience it brings him:
“This is everything I have been looking for to take out into my trips. Lightweight and gets the job done when drinking out of streams and unknown sourcesâ¦It gets the job done and is a must-have when you want certainty from your unknown water sources, it’s one less thing to have to worry about.”
User Jesse G. is crazy about CrazyCap’s top-notch, hospital-grade UV technology:
“They use the same UVC-LED light that hospitals use to sterilize their equipment. Which kills germs at 99.99 percent. It has different features on it for a quick clean and a longer clean for river water or water that you think is a little sketchy and it self-cleans.”
For LINK UV-C Water Bottle, user Sheila is thrilled with the quality and how versatile its cap is, but has one recommendation:
“Great quality and easy to use. Wish they have 24oz. I also used the UV cap to sanitize my other water bottles⦔
Healthcare worker MLT notes how compact and lightweight the UV Self-Cleaning Bottle is, and how it cleans things other than water:
“I’m a nurse working in a COVID unit. This will help me keep not only my water sanitized but my masks, clothes, bag, name it. The CRAZY cap is a wonderful invention. The bottle is compact and will hold 1/2 a liter of water. Enough to carry around without logging a big bottle.”
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Are UV water bottles safe?
Yes, they are when used correctly. UV water purifiers can kill up to 99.99% of harmful bacteria in water. Most bottle brands also steer clear of using any BPA, plastics, or other dangerous substances, so they don’t pose any risk for children.Â
Can I use a UV water bottle to purify highly polluted water?
As much as possible, the bottle should only be used in clearing slightly cloudy water from bodies of water that are not heavily polluted or as per the manufacturer’s specifications. Why?
The UV light must fully penetrate the water inside to kill all the organisms fully. When water is muddy or murky, the light cannot shine through and eliminate the waterborne bacteria and viruses. It also doesn’t work on water with sediment and other particles.
How do I clean my UV bottle?
Simply wash the bottle with soap and warm water and wipe the mouth area from time to time. Technically, since it’s used mainly for water, you won’t have to clean it so often unless you use it for liquids other than water.
Can it purify other beverages?
UV bottles are mainly intended for water only, so it’s not recommendable for other beverages. If you do end up putting drinks like tea or coffee in your bottle, you’ll need to hand wash it after each use with warm soapy water.
Can I put them in the fridge or the microwave?
No. Avoid putting your bottle in the freezer, microwave, or dishwasher, as doing so can potentially damage it. Placing the bottle on the fridge, however, while not harmful to the bottle, won’t affect the water inside since the insulation prevents it from being affected by external temperatures.
Is it safe to take on flights?
UV bottles are generally safe to carry along with you on flights as long as you empty all the water from the bottle. Also, hand-carrying the bottle is generally more advisable.
Cleaner water for better health
Thanks to modern technological advances, UV water bottles offer an innovative way to purify your water, being 10,000 times more hygienic than your regular reusable flasks. In this way, you won’t need to buy expensive machinery or use complicated methods. Simply close the lid and let the UV lights do their magic, and voila! Fresh, clean water on the go, whenever, wherever you want it.
While they are considerably costlier than the bottles you already have, the benefits they offer make it a worthy investment. With all the money you’ll be saving from not buying bottled water, you’ll easily get back your money’s worth and a lot more in the long run.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.
