Is it safe to drink from a reusable plastic water bottle daily?

What's actually in it

Reusable plastic water bottles are typically made from polycarbonate, Tritan copolyester, or polyethylene. Over repeated use, micro-scratches from washing accumulate on the inner surface, increasing the surface area that contacts liquid and accelerating chemical migration. What was a minimal migration risk from a new bottle becomes meaningfully higher after months of use.

Dishwasher washing uses high heat and harsh detergent, which accelerates plastic degradation and increases the rate of chemical migration in subsequent uses.

What the research says

A 2026 study on chemical migration from plastic water bottles found multiple compounds leaching into water under typical use conditions, with migration increasing over time and with temperature. Researchers identified bisphenol compounds, antimony, and other chemicals as consistent migration products from plastic bottles used over extended periods.

A stainless steel water bottle requires no such trade-off: it can be used indefinitely, washed with anything, used with hot or cold beverages, and doesn't leach any chemicals into the water inside. The initial cost is higher, but the ongoing exposure is zero.