Plastic is everywhere, but so is plastic pollution. Over time, plastics break down into microplastics (tiny particles smaller than a sesame seed) and even tinier nanoplastics (invisible to the naked eye).
Water companies focus on making their packaging look good while keeping costs low. That’s why plastic bottles are so common. But the real problem is the type of plastic used to make them; it’s what’s causing the most harm to the environment.
In this article, you will learn about the types of plastic in water bottles and their details.
What Type of Plastic Is Used in Water Bottles?
Not all plastic bottles are the same because different types of plastic have different strengths. Some are tough and sturdy, while others are light and flexible. The right plastic is chosen based on what the bottle needs to do, like keeping liquids from leaking or making it see-through.
The most common types of plastics used in water bottles are-
- PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
- Polycarbonate
- And some more…
Why Do Plastic Bottles Have Numbers from 1 to 7?
When reusing plastic water bottles, check the number inside the recycling symbol. This number (1 to 7) tells you what type of plastic the bottle is made from. Some plastics are safer for reuse, while others should only be used once.
Recycling centers also use these numbers to sort plastics since not all can be processed the same way. Knowing which ones are safer helps you make the right choices and recycle properly.
| Recycling Code | Type of Plastic | Properties | Common Uses |
| 1 | PET | Lightweight, clear, generally safe but not for reuse | Single-use water bottles, soda bottles |
| 2 | HDPE | Strong, chemical-resistant, safe for reuse | Milk jugs, detergent bottles, reusable bottles |
| 3 | PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) | Tough, durable, health concerns | Some food packaging, plumbing pipes |
| 4 | LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) | Soft, flexible, lightweight, generally safe | Squeezable bottles, plastic bags |
| 5 | PP (Polypropylene) | Heat-resistant, durable, safe for repeated use | Reusable bottles, bottle caps, food containers |
| 6 | PS (Polystyrene) | Lightweight, brittle, not safe for hot liquids | Foam cups, disposable plates |
| 7 | Other (Mixed Plastics) | Varies, sometimes includes BPA, may be unsafe | Baby bottles, some reusable water bottles |
Safe Types of Plastic Water Bottles
Some plastics are better suited for storing water because they can be reused safely and don’t leach harmful chemicals. Let’s look closer at the safest types of plastic water bottles and what makes them a good choice.
1. PET
PET is the most common plastic used for single-use water bottles. You’ll also find it in soda bottles, juice containers, and food packaging. It’s lightweight, strong, and moisture-resistant, making it ideal for keeping beverages fresh. PET bottles are also recyclable, reducing plastic waste.
However, PET isn’t designed for repeated use. When exposed to heat or reused too many times, it may start to break down and release chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA) or phthalates. These chemicals are linked to potential health risks. If you’re using a PET bottle, it’s best to recycle it after one use and avoid leaving it in the sun or in hot environments.
2. HDPE
HDPE is one of the safest plastics for food and beverage storage. It’s used for milk jugs, larger water bottles, detergent bottles, and even some reusable water containers. Unlike PET, HDPE is highly durable, resistant to chemicals, and does not contain BPA.
You can recycle this type of plastic multiple times without losing its strength. While it’s not as transparent as PET, HDPE is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reusable and long-lasting plastic bottle.
3. Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate plastic has been around for over 50 years and is a popular choice for food and drink packaging because it’s lightweight, tough, and clear. You’ll often find it in 3- and 5-gallon water cooler bottles. Since the FDA has approved it for food contact, it’s considered safe to use.
One big advantage of polycarbonate bottles is that they’re reusable; they can be used 30 to 50 times before recycling. That makes them a more eco-friendly option compared to disposable plastic bottles. You’ll also find polycarbonate in everyday items like eyeglasses and CDs.
There has been some debate about BPA in polycarbonate, but the FDA and other health authorities say it’s safe for food and drink use.
Which Types of Plastics Are Unsafe for Water Bottles?
Not all plastic water bottles are safe for regular use. Some types contain harmful chemicals that can leach into your drink, posing serious health risks. Here are the details.
1. PVC
PVC or vinyl is used in some water bottles, vegetable oil containers, and plastic squeeze bottles. Although it’s strong and resistant to chemicals, PVC is one of the most harmful plastics for human health and the environment. It contains di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), a chemical that can disrupt hormones and cause long-term health problems.
PVC is also not recyclable, making it a major contributor to plastic waste. Its production releases toxic chlorine-based chemicals, which can contaminate the air and water.
2. PS
Polystyrene, or Styrofoam, is used in disposable cups, plates, and some plastic bottles because it’s lightweight and cheap to make. Although PS is convenient, it’s not great for your health. It can leach styrene, a chemical linked to cancer and other health risks.
3. Other Plastics
Plastic bottles labeled with the number 7 fall into the “Other” category, which includes polycarbonate and various mixed plastics. Many of these contain BPA and other harmful chemicals.
Last Words
So, this is all about the type of plastic in water bottles. When choosing a plastic water bottle, you must know which types are safe and which ones to avoid. Polycarbonate bottles are reusable and FDA-approved, while PVC (#3), polystyrene (#6), and other plastics (#7) can leach harmful chemicals and aren’t recyclable. Always check the recycling code on the bottle before use.
For a safer choice, go for reusable, BPA-free bottles or switch to stainless steel or glass.