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8 Best Water Bottles for Kids of 2024

Updated
Durable and affordable water bottles for kids.

Kids are hard on their water bottles.

We’re moms, so we know the struggle. You want to keep your kid hydrated without having to replace their water bottle every week. Reusable water bottles can be expensive, but you want to avoid using disposable plastic bottles that are harmful to the environment. So, what’s a mom to do?

We’ve made it our mission to find the best water bottles on the market — reusable bottles that are durable, spill-proof, and easy to carry. We’ve compared all the top options, looking at criteria such as capacity, design, cost, and durability, to create this list of the best kids’ water bottles on the market.

With one of our top picks, you can save money on frequent water bottle replacements and rest assured your child stays hydrated wherever they go.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the CamelBak Kids
Best Lunchbox Bottle
CamelBak Kids
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Free of BPA and BPS
  • Drip-free experience
Product Image of the Zulu Torque Bottle
Best Straw Bottle
Zulu Torque Bottle
  • FDA food grade silicone straw
  • Won't crack, stain or smell
  • Hard to break bottle
Product Image of the Nalgene Tritan
Best Leak Proof Bottle
Nalgene Tritan
  • Affordable and dishwasher safe
  • Fits your toddler’s hands
  • Made in the U.S.
Product Image of the Thermos Funtainer
Best Hygienic Bottle
Thermos Funtainer
  • Hygienic push-button lid
  • Keeps liquid cold for 12 hours
  • Integrated carry handle
Product Image of the Snug Kids
Best Insulated Bottle
Snug Kids
  • Child-friendly designs
  • Rust-free
  • Screw-top lid
Product Image of the Anature Stainless
Best Stainless Steel Bottle
Anature Stainless
  • No metallic taste
  • Won’t sweat on the outside
  • Perfect size for kids to hold
Product Image of the Contigo Autoseal Trekker
Best On-the-Go Bottle
Contigo Autoseal Trekker
  • Leak-free and spill proof
  • Fits perfectly in cup holders
  • One-handed drinking system
Product Image of the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth
Best No-Slip Bottle
Hydro Flask Wide Mouth
  • Double-wall vacuum insulation
  • Powder coat finish
  • Lifetime warranty

Review Methodology: At Mom Loves Best, we prioritize thorough research, hands-on experience, and data-driven analysis to ensure that our assessment of the best kids water bottles is reliable and trustworthy. Our professional team evaluates products from a user’s perspective, comparing factors such as design, performance, and safety. We identify key decision-making elements like durability, leak-proof features, and ease of use, and rank the top contenders based on these criteria. With first-hand evidence and rigorous evaluation, we provide you with an in-depth review that highlights what sets each water bottle apart from its competitors, ensuring that you can make an informed decision for your child’s hydration needs.



The Best Kids Water Bottles of 2024

Here are our favorite kids’ water bottles currently on the market.

CamelBak Kids Water Bottle

Best Small Lunch box Water Bottle for Kids

This charming bottle is small enough to fit in a lunch box without taking up too much space. Its spill-proof design means it won’t leak in your child’s bag and ruin their lunch.

Plus, kids will love all the different colors and designs they can get, from unicorns to dragons.

Recommended for kids from ages 3 to 8, this has a redesigned cap and valve to provide a faster flow rate, so your child can chug that water when they need it.

Pros

  • Dishwasher safe.
  • Free of BPA and BPS.
  • Bite valve offers a drip-free experience.

Cons

  • The tubing often falls out of the bottle.
  • May collect mold in the spout.

Our Ratings

Leak-proof
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Capacity
3 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

User Experience

I have been using the Edy Camelbak water bottles for both of my daughters for years, and they have proven to be durable and long-lasting. My youngest daughter, who had feeding issues as a baby, was able to transition to using these bottles with the help of her feeding therapist. As for cleaning, I put the lid and cup in the top rack of the dishwasher, while the mouthpiece and straw are hand washed and air dried, preventing any mold issues. However, some users have reported issues with missing straws and problems with the mouthpiece leaking. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall quality of these water bottles is commendable. They have been instrumental in helping my children transition from bottles to straws and have been a reliable choice for our family.

Zulu Torque Kids Water Bottle

Best Kids Water Bottle With a Straw

These modern-looking water bottles hold 12 ounces, and they do it in style with a silicone sleeve that looks nice and protects the plastic bottle.

They have a locking flip lid with a soft straw that won’t hurt the top of your child’s mouth, lips, or teeth if they happen to fall while walking around and drinking.

Although it’s made of plastic, this bottle is free of BPA, phthalates, and PVC.

You can’t put this bottle in the freezer to chill your water, but the top is big enough to fit ice cubes if your child prefers cold water.

Pros

  • Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
  • Big straw makes for easy chugging.
  • It’s hard to break this bottle, even if you drop it.

Cons

  • These are fairly expensive.
  • No replacement straws available.

Our Ratings

Leak-proof
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Capacity
3 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

These water bottles are not only great for kids but also perfect for attaching to backpacks during various outdoor activities. The bright colors make them easy to find, and the new design is both sturdy and easy to clean. However, some users have experienced issues with the locking mechanism becoming difficult for younger children to use or failing after about 6 months.

Nalgene Tritan Grip-N-Gulp Bottle

Best Leak Proof Water Bottle for Kids

This water bottle holds 12 ounces and comes in more than a dozen vibrant colors, some of which have fun designs.

The plastic used to make these doesn’t contain BPA, and the smooth mouthpiece should feel comfortable against little mouths.

This bottle is tough enough to stand up to the rigorous use a toddler will put it through. And since it’s spill-proof, you won’t need to follow your toddler from room to room, mopping up little puddles.

Pros

  • It’s affordable and dishwasher safe.
  • This bottle is small enough for your toddler’s hands.
  • Made in the U.S.

Cons

  • The spout doesn’t close.
  • The slow flow of the spout can be frustrating for some kids.

Our Ratings

Leak-proof
5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Capacity
3 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

Love the durability and functionality of these Nalgene Grip n Gulp water bottles for my kids. While some users mentioned difficulty in drinking from the spout, I found that by doing a little DIY and cutting additional slits in the guard, the drinking experience improved significantly. This bottle is great for outdoor activities and holds a large amount of fluid, which is perfect for longer trips. It is easy to clean and has no hidden spaces for mold to grow, making it a safe choice for my children. Although the lid can be a bit challenging to clean, overall, I am very satisfied with this product and will continue using it for my kids.

Thermos Funtainer 12 Ounce Bottle

Best Hygienic Water Bottle

You can’t protect your child from everything, but you can protect them from germs with this hygienic water bottle.

The key feature is the pop-up straw. It’s hidden beneath a cover, so it can’t be grabbed by germy hands or exposed to dirt, dust, or anything else your child may get into.

When it’s time for a drink, your child just needs to press the button. The lid will open, and the straw will pop up. If your child is the rough and tumble sort, always getting into messes, this water bottle will help keep the germs away.

It’s made of stainless steel, holds up to 12 ounces of liquid, and can keep your child’s favorite liquids cold for up to 12 hours. We also like that it has an integrated carry handle so smaller hands can maintain a good grip.

These can be used at a young age, and kids love how the cover pops open with a button.
Headshot of Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

Editor's Note:

Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

Pros

  • A hygienic push-button lid protects the straw from nasty germs and exposure.
  • Stainless steel thermos system keeps liquids cold for 12 hours.
  • The integrated carry handle is perfect for little hands.

Cons

  • You’ve got a lot of different parts with this bottle, so there’s more to clean, and children might lose the pieces if they take it apart.

Our Ratings

Leak-proof
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Capacity
3 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

My experience with this thermos has been a mix of satisfaction and disappointment. Upon receiving it, I noticed the print and color differed from the advertised image, which was quite misleading. Despite this, the thermos itself is visually appealing and has an attractive design. It is important to note that it is not leak-proof as it may leak when tipped over. The stainless steel construction feels durable and lightweight, making it suitable for children to carry around, but be aware of the discrepancies in the design and its lack of leak-proofing.

Snug Kids Insulated Water Bottle with Straw

Best Insulated Water Bottle for Kids

Your toddler won’t be able to break this water bottle, no matter how hard they try! There’s a single push button to help their little hands launch the straw, which is excellent for parents who worry about their child’s hygiene.

You can’t use this for hot drinks, but it does an excellent job insulating your cold drinks for the entire day.

The vacuum-insulated bottles will never rust, and they come in some bright, fun colors to interest your child.

Pros

  • Child-friendly designs.
  • This bottle keeps your drink cold for a full day.
  • Will never rust.

Cons

  • It holds 12 ounces, which can be a lot for smaller children.

Our Ratings

Leak-proof
4 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Capacity
3 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

I recently purchased this water bottle for my young daughter and found it to be a durable and functional choice. The metal container is easy to clean and features a cute design, while the straw can be taken apart for thorough cleaning. However, it's important to ensure the cap is closed properly to avoid leaks, as it may not be completely leak-proof when tipped or turned upside down. My daughter enjoys using this water bottle, but be aware that the push button may not be as durable as the rest of the bottle.

Anature Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle for Kids

This brightly colored water bottle holds 9 ounces, which is the perfect amount of liquid for a child. Since there aren’t any childish characters on these bottles, they’ll still be cool enough to use as your child grows up and gets pickier.

This double-walled bottle is vacuum insulated, which means it will keep your child’s water cold all day. It can also be used for hot drinks — like hot chocolate on a cold day — and it’ll keep your liquids hot for up to 10 hours.

Pros

  • You won’t get that annoying metallic taste to your water.
  • It doesn’t sweat, so there’s no need to worry about your child using coasters on your nice tables.
  • It’s small enough for a child to hold easily.

Cons

  • It doesn’t use a straw but has a screw-off lid, which might be less convenient.
  • It may be a little heavy for some toddlers.

Our Ratings

Leak-proof
3.5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Capacity
2.5 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience with this stainless steel water bottle has been great so far. I needed a smaller, lightweight bottle for my bicycle rides and this one is the perfect size. I love the bright blue color, which matches my bike, and it keeps my water cold all day, even in the hot Florida sun. It's also sturdy and has survived a few drops without any damage. The only minor downside is that the rubber bottom can occasionally slip off, but overall, I'm very happy with this purchase.

Contigo Autoseal Trekker Kids Water Bottles

Best On-the-Go Water Bottle

Children are always on the go! Whether they’re shuffling about with you or starting to fill their lives with school, hobbies, and friends, you want to keep them hydrated while preventing spills.

That’s one of the reasons we appreciate this on-the-go water bottle. It has a specially sealed lid, so it’s both leak-proof and spill-proof, preventing accidents, small and large.

It’s tough enough that it can roll around in the car or be dropped on the ground without liquid bursting everywhere. It’s even designed to fit in standard cupholders.

This is also a great option for active kids because they can use it with only one hand. If your child loves to walk and play outdoors, they can carry and use this water bottle without stopping.

Pros

  • Leak-proof and spill-proof, so you can take it on the go without fear of accidents.
  • Fits perfectly in your car’s cup holders.
  • Features a one-handed drinking system.

Cons

  • There isn’t a straw or spout, so younger children may struggle to drink from it.

Our Ratings

Leak-proof
5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Capacity
3.5 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

I've been using these no-spill cups for my 3 and 5-year-old kids, and they have been a great investment for our family. These cups are easy for my kids to use, and they truly don't spill, even when knocked over during the night. The only downside is that the lids can be difficult to clean, especially if something like milk is left inside, but soaking them in hot water and using a straw brush has helped solve this issue. The Contigo Autoseal Trekker Kids Water Bottle is a fantastic choice for parents who want to keep their children hydrated throughout the day. It is made of durable, BPA-free materials and has a comfortable grip for little hands. However, I would recommend only using it for water, as cleaning sugary drinks from the lid can be challenging.

Hydro Flask Kids Sippy Water Bottle

Best No-Slip Water Bottle

Developing fine motor skills is an important part of growing up. Your little one has been grabbing and reaching for things from the very start, and they especially love it when they can hold things on their own. Unfortunately, many water bottles are too big or slippery for little hands.

This special no-slip water bottle aims to help children get a good grip and stay hydrated. Its smaller size is perfect for a child while still holding 12 ounces of liquid. The double-walled vacuum insulation and stainless steel material keep liquids cool for up to 24 hours.

Our favorite features, however, are the unique powder coat finish and silicone boot. The powder coat is designed to give your child extra grip when they’re holding the bottle. The silicone boot provides added protection and traction when your child sets it down.

We love this water bottle for younger children who still need a bit of extra help.

Pros

  • The smaller size is ideal for young children and their little hands.
  • With the powder coat finish, your child can get a good grip.
  • Keeps liquids cool for up to 24 hours.

Cons

  • Can only be washed by hand.

Our Ratings

Leak-proof
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Capacity
3 / 5
Ease of Cleaning
3 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

First-Hand Impression

After trying numerous water bottles for my children, I finally decided to give this Hydro Flask a shot, and it did not disappoint. My son loves the straw lid and the added protection of the rubber bottom, which is perfect for his age group. While it's a bit on the pricier side, the durability and quality make it worth every penny, since it has lasted over two years. The design options and color choices could be expanded for the younger crowd, but that's a minor drawback.

What’s Wrong with Disposable Water Bottles?

Disposable water bottles are convenient and widely available, and you don’t have to worry about cleaning them after use.

But they’re also a complete waste of resources — that includes your money and the materials used to make them.

Disposable water bottles won’t break down for 450 to 1,000 years — that’s an awful lot of waste we can avoid. Last year, around 50 billion plastic water bottles were used in the U.S. alone, and the majority weren’t recycled either — they just went straight into the trash.

When we throw these bottles away, we might as well be tossing our hard-earned money in the garbage along with them. Not only are they a waste of money, but they’re also a waste of natural resources like the gas needed to transport them all over the globe.

Environmental issues aside, if you think that bottled water is the safer, healthier option, think again. Bottled water isn’t any better than tap water (1).

How to Choose Water Bottles for Kids

There are a few considerations to take when you’re choosing a water bottle for your kids.

Weight

If you want your baby to be able to lift their water bottle without help, steer clear of glass and stainless steel. Plastic is the lightest option.

Cost

Stainless steel and glass bottles are both pricey. Plastic bottles are usually the cheapest, but they are not as durable as stainless steel and may contain harmful chemicals you won’t find in glass bottles. The best kids’ water bottles tend to fall within the $10 to $20 price range.

Durability

Plastic bottles aren’t made to last forever — that’s why the price tag is so low. Aluminum will last longer than plastic, but generally not as long as stainless steel or glass. However, if your child is very rough on their water bottles, you may want to avoid glass bottles, for obvious reasons.

Design

If you want a bottle that appeals to your child with their favorite cartoon characters, you need to be aware that this will shorten its lifespan. Kids’ likes tend to change quickly, and they usually don’t want to use anything too babyish as they get older.

Capacity

If your child spends a lot of time in a vehicle or is outside a lot sweating up a storm, you might want a water bottle that holds a greater amount of liquid. Most water bottles for kids hold about 8 to 12 ounces of water, but you can purchase bottles that hold up to 32 ounces. Remember, the more water your child’s bottle holds, the heavier it will be for them to carry around.

Spout

A soft straw spout is best for teaching your toddler how to use a water bottle, and it won’t accidentally hurt their developing teeth. A softer spout is also a good idea for younger kids who like to walk around while they drink. If they trip and fall, a soft spout won’t do much damage to their gums, the roof of the mouth, or their teeth.

Harder spouts are better for children who tend to chew things, as they’ll last a lot longer than a soft spout.


What’s the Best Type of Reusable Water Bottle?

There are pros and cons to each water bottle type. Plastic reusable water bottles are usually inexpensive and easy to replace, although they can also be easy to break. And some parents worry about chemicals in plastics and choose to avoid them altogether.

Stainless steel and aluminum water bottles are far more durable, but they also have drawbacks. Stainless steel can be heavy for a child to lift, and it can seriously damage little toes if a baby drops it.

Metal bottles have also caused some freak accidents — some kids have had their tongues get stuck inside when trying to get the last drops out of the bottle. When that happens, the tongue is difficult to get out because a vacuum is created (2).

Glass bottles are easy to clean, and you don’t have to worry about chemicals. But they’re also easy to break, and no parent relishes the idea of their child having to walk through or around broken glass.

You’ll have to weigh the risks involved with each type of material and decide what’s most important to you to determine which kind of bottle is right for your child.

Water Bottle FAQs

How Many Water Bottles Should a Kid Drink a Day?

Depending on how old your kid is, this answer could vary. For most children and teens, the recommended amount of water daily is six to eight 8-oz cups.

Most water bottles contain around 16 ounces of water, so that would be 3-4 water bottles per day. If your child, particularly a teen, drinks more than that, that’s perfectly fine.

Is It Better to Drink Out of Plastic or Metal Water Bottle?

If you want the absolute healthiest option, pick a metal water bottle. Water tends to leach toxic chemicals from the plastic surrounding it. Especially if the water is hot, you could be teeny tiny pieces of the materials used to make plastic. You won’t run into this danger with metal.

What Type of Water Bottle Is Best for School?

That depends on your kid’s specific needs. What are they using the water bottle for? The CamelBak Kids Water Bottle fits perfectly in lunch boxes if it’s just for lunch.

Are they going to be using it for sports? The Contigo Autoseal Trekker is the best water bottle for on-the-go. It’s made to be drunk out of with one hand, and it has built-in leak-proof technology.

What Water Bottle for Kids Is As Good As Yeti?

We think the Thermos Funtainer is comparable to Yeti. Like Yeti, this water bottle keeps liquids cold for a ridiculously long time-12 hours! It has a handle built into the top that’s big enough to get your hand around, which we also appreciate.

What Is the Healthiest Water Bottle for Kids?

The Thermos Funtainer we just talked about is the most hygienic water bottle on our list. We also appreciate that this bottle is made of metal.

Not that plastic water bottles can’t be of great quality, but metal provides a better-quality feel. The push-button lid keeps this water bottle extra clean and the spout away from germy fingers.


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Headshot of Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

Reviewed by

Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC is a cardiology nurse and freelance medical writer. Katelyn has 8 years of nursing experience inpatient and outpatient, primarily medical-surgical and cardiac. After having two children she has a passion for Women’s Health and Lactation teaching and support.