Reusing plastic water bottles is a common practice many of us might not give a second thought.
However, the potential health implications, such as the risk of developing cancer and other sort of sicknesses, have been subject to much debate. This article examines the scientific evidence surrounding this topic.
Can You Get Cancer from Reusing Plastic Water Bottles?
Reusing plastic water bottles is something many of us do without a second thought.
We finish our bottled water, refill it at the nearest fountain or tap, and continue on with our day. It’s practical, it’s convenient, and hey, it feels good to be reusing something rather than immediately tossing it away, right?
But then, is it safe? and how true are the cancer rumors we’ve been hearing about it?
Alright. Before we let fear get the best of us, it’s important to check out the facts.
The potential risk of cancer from reusing plastic water bottles primarily comes from two sources: harmful substances leaching out from the plastic into the water we drink, and the growth of bacteria due to improper cleaning.
The first source of concern involves certain types of plastic that contain potentially harmful substances, like Bisphenol A (BPA) or phthalates. These chemicals have been in the limelight for their links to various health issues, including certain types of cancer.
However, it’s crucial to remember that many plastic bottles, especially those specifically designed for reuse, are now made BPA-free in response to these concerns way back in the early years.
Moreover, regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) impose strict regulations to ensure that the levels of such substances in consumer products are well below the levels considered harmful.
Regarding bacteria, any container, if not properly cleaned, can harbor harmful microbes. So, this is less about the plastic bottle itself and more about good hygiene and regular cleaning.
So, can reusing plastic water bottles give you cancer?
The short answer is, the risk is likely quite low, especially with proper care and use. But it’s still a complex issue that we need to consider from different angles. Let’s delve deeper into these aspects as we go forward.
What types of Plastics are best safe for reusing?
Generally, here’s a table that explains this…
| Type of Plastic | Resin Identification Code | Properties | Safe for Reuse |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyethylene Terephthalate | PET or PETE (1) | Lightweight and resistant to water. Used for beverage bottles and food jars. | Generally safe, but should not be reused long-term as they can leach chemicals when damaged or old. |
| High-Density Polyethylene | HDPE (2) | Hard, opaque plastic often used for milk jugs and detergent bottles. | Yes, safe for reuse. Resistant to most acids, alcohols, and bases. |
| Polypropylene | PP (5) | Hard but flexible, withstands heat. Used for yogurt containers, straws, and ketchup bottles. | Yes, safe for reuse. It has a high heat tolerance and doesn’t leach chemicals. |
| Low-Density Polyethylene | LDPE (4) | Soft and flexible, used for grocery bags, plastic wraps, and sandwich bags. | Yes, safe for reuse but not suitable for all uses due to its softness and flexibility. |
| Polyethylene | PE | Tough and lightweight, used for cutting boards, toys, lids. | Yes, safe for reuse. It is resistant to detergents and dishwashers. |
In details..
Plastics aren’t all created equal. Some are better suited for reuse than others, especially when it comes to holding our drinks. This is largely due to the different chemicals used in the manufacturing process.
And this is the reason the amount of times you reuse plastic is usually important.
Now, if you’ve ever turned your water bottle around and wondered what those little recycling numbers mean, you’re about to find out.
Generally, if we’re talking about plastic that are safe for reusing, numbers 2, 4, and 5 are your new best friends.
Plastic number 2, also known as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), is a sturdy, hard-wearing plastic that’s often used for milk jugs and detergent bottles.
It doesn’t break down easily under heat or sunlight and doesn’t release harmful chemicals into your water, which makes it a safe bet for reuse.
Number 4, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), also works well.
It’s typically used in things like plastic bags and squeeze bottles. LDPE isn’t as hardy as HDPE and can start to break down over time, but it’s generally safe for reusing in the short term.
Last but not least, we’ve got plastic number 5, polypropylene (PP).
You’ll find this in yogurt containers and syrup bottles. It’s also a safe choice for reuse, with high heat resistance and a low risk of leaching chemicals.
You might notice I didn’t mention number 1, which is often found on disposable water bottles. This plastic, called PET or PETE, is perfectly safe for one-time use, but it’s not designed to be reused. Over time, it can break down and might release chemicals, especially if it gets hot or scratched.
Better Alternatives to Plastics for Water Bottles
While we’ve talked about the safer options when it comes to reusing plastic, it’s worth noting that there are other, potentially even better alternatives out there.
For those of us who are health-conscious, environmentally friendly, or just tired of trying to remember all those plastic numbers, let’s explore some options that could make staying hydrated less complicated.
One of the most popular alternatives is stainless steel water bottles.
They’re durable, do not leach chemicals, and they’re generally great at maintaining the temperature of your drink, whether it’s ice-cold water for a hot summer day or a warm tea for a chilly morning hike.
Many of them also come with insulated walls for better temperature control. Plus, they can withstand a lot of wear and tear, so if you’re prone to dropping things, this might be a good option for you.
Next, we’ve got glass water bottles.
They’re free of any chemicals that could potentially seep into your water, and they’re also very easy to clean. Plus, there’s something refreshing about drinking water from a glass bottle, right?
However, they can be a bit more fragile, so you might want to look for ones with silicone sleeves for added protection.
Lastly, we also have water bottles made from silicone.
These are flexible, lightweight, and can handle extreme temperatures. Plus, they don’t contain BPA, phthalates, or other potentially harmful chemicals.
Wrapping up
The risk of cancer from reusing plastic water bottles, while not negligible, is likely quite low with proper usage and cleaning. However, exploring other options such as stainless steel, glass, and silicone water bottles could offer peace of mind, as well as a positive step towards a more sustainable lifestyle.
