If you’re looking for ways to encourage your toddler to drink more water, one solution is to buy them a special water bottle designed just for toddlers.
As a parent, you likely have concerns about a water bottle’s size, weight, and mobility in a toddler’s or preschooler’s hands. Is it user-friendly? The design and quality of the bottle will likely be equally important to you; can it handle toddlerhood, the great outdoors, and being thrown around in a backpack or on the playground?
We looked at a variety of water bottles for toddlers, and we considered factors like capacity, design, price, and durability in order to find the best options on the market. In the end, we compiled a list of the best toddler water bottles available.
Our Top Picks
- Best Budget Water Bottle: Contigo Autoseal Trekker Kids Water Bottle
- Best Insulated Water Bottle: THERMOS FUNTAINER
- Best Leakproof Water Bottle: Ion8 Kid’s One Touch On-The-Go Printed Water Bottle
- Best Plastic Water Bottle: CamelBak Eddy+ Kids BPA-Free Water Bottle
- Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle: Hydro Flask Kids Water Bottle
- Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle With Straw: YETI Rambler Jr. Kids Bottle
- Best Water Bottle With Silicone Sleeve: ZULU Torque Kids Tritan Plastic Water Bottle
- Best Clear Water Bottle: NALGENE Tritan Grip-N-Gulp Water Bottle
- Easiest To Hold Water Bottle: Tommee Tippee Insulated Sportee Water Bottle
- Eco-Friendly Toddler Water Bottle: Elk and Friends Kids & Toddler Cups
In This Article
HappyBabyHub’s Best Toddler Water Bottles Picks
Contigo Autoseal Trekker Kids Water Bottle – Best Budget Water Bottle
- Does not leak
- There is no sucking involved. So if you’re worried about getting your child out of a sippy cup to save their teeth, this works great
- They can carry this cup around with them, but once the button is pushed it works just like a normal cup
- Easy to use and refill
- Not the easiest to be washed
This BPA-free water bottle is designed for little hands, making it easy for toddlers to hold and carry around. It fits in most car cup holders, making it perfect for busy days spent shuttling between soccer practice, piano lessons, and school. It’s even great for road trips!
Plus, with this two-pack, you can designate one bottle for home and one for school, or keep one as a backup in case your forgetful little one misplaces it.
THERMOS FUNTAINER – Best Insulated Water Bottle
- The straw is just a regular straw – no valves, no need to bite to get water
- The lid snaps shut, keeping the straw protected and containing any spills
- Easy for toddler hands to hold
- Easy to clean and take apart
- The paint can scratch off, but not very easily
THERMOS has created a masterpiece with its double-wall stainless steel construction that ensures beverages maintain their temperature both inside and outside the bottle.
The soft-touch grip of the integrated carry handle is perfect for toddlers who love to carry their own belongings. Plus, the detachable silicone straw is wrapped in a hygienic cover that keeps germs at bay, so you don’t have to worry about nasty bacteria lurking in the crevices. And when it’s time to clean up, simply pop it in the dishwasher or give it a quick wash by hand.
Ion8 Kid’s One Touch On-The-Go Printed Water Bottle – Best Leakproof Water Bottle
- Very child-friendly
- The drinking hole is the ideal size for toddlers
- High-quality clasp
- A movable handle is attached
- Hand wash only
This fantastic water bottle is completely secure and ensures that not a single drop is spilled. The soft silicon seals the vent and spouts tightly, and the safety lock latch ensures that it stays closed while in your backpack or purse.
The spout remains clean and free of germs thanks to the flip top. Plus, the wide openings make refilling and cleaning quick and easy, and the air vent ensures a slick, spill-free flow. Thanks to the side placement of the spout on the lid, your toddler only need to tilt it slightly to enjoy the perfect sip of hydration.
CamelBak Eddy+ Kids BPA-Free Water Bottle – Best Plastic Water Bottle
- Cutest design
- Easy to clean/take apart
- Wide opening
- Bite valve offers drip-free drinking
- The straw has no cap
The Eddy+ Kids water bottle is an adventure-loving companion that is as strong as it is spill-proof. It’s simple to use – your child can flip, bite, and sip without having to tilt it, which means no messes to clean up. With a comfortable carry handle, toddlers can take it wherever their adventures lead them.
The colorful designs are sure to delight every young explorer, with options like camping foxes, sloths, and rainbows. The lid is threaded firmly to avoid popping off in small hands, but it’s easy to remove and clean on the top rack of a dishwasher.
Hydro Flask Kids Water Bottle – Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle
- It has a small, easy-to-hold handle that is durable
- It doesn’t leak
- Minimal parts and easy to clean
- Easy to open
- The part you put your mouth on is exposed to the elements when closed
This awesome stainless steel water bottle is designed to keep toddlers hydrated while also helping them keep a grip on it. It might be small, but it can hold up to 12 ounces of liquid, perfect for your little one. And the best part is, the double-walled vacuum insulation keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours!
But what sets this water bottle apart is its unique powder-coat finish and silicone boot. The powder-coat finish provides a better grip for your child to hold onto the bottle. And when the bottle is placed down, the silicone boot provides protection and traction, so it doesn’t slip or slide around.
YETI Rambler Jr. Kids Bottle – Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle With Straw
- This is a big bottle that could carry water for the entire day for a toddler
- It’s leakproof when the sprout is closed
- It keeps water cool for around 4-5 hours
- Easy for a little one to hold and use
- Can get dented if dropped
If you’re looking for a durable water bottle for your active little one, Yeti’s stainless steel option is a great choice. Its flip-up straw design makes it easy to sip on the go, whether during recess or outdoor playtime. Plus, you won’t have to worry about any leaks, as it’s built to keep water securely stored and backpacks or diaper bags dry.
We love that this insulated bottle will keep drinks cold all day long, ensuring your child always has a refreshing beverage by their side. The large handle also makes it easy to carry around. And when it comes time to clean, the wider opening makes handwashing and inspection a breeze.
ZULU Torque Kids Tritan Plastic Water Bottle – Best Water Bottle With Silicone Sleeve
- Leakproof
- The lock works great
- They’re easy to disassemble and wash
- The sleeve provides a comfortable grip
- The straw doesn’t reach the bottom of the bottle, leaving about an ounce of water at the bottom
The Zulu Torque Water Bottle is one tough cookie, perfect for toddlers who want a durable water bottle that looks stylish. Made from high-quality Tritan plastic that is BPA-free, this water bottle can hold up to 12 ounces of liquid.
The Torque comes with a silicone sleeve that not only protects the plastic bottle from scratches and bumps but also adds a fashionable touch to your toddler’s gear. The one-touch push button lid opens easily, revealing a soft straw that can be deployed with just one push. Cleaning up is a breeze, too, as all the pieces can be washed in the top rack of a dishwasher.
NALGENE Tritan Grip-N-Gulp Water Bottle – Best Clear Water Bottle
- Dishwasher safe
- Small enough for a toddler to grip
- The stopper works well so the water does not come out all at once
- Extremely durable and well-made
- Not the fastest spout
The Nalgene Tritan Grip-N-Gulp Water Bottle is a tough and reliable option for active toddlers. This BPA-free clear water bottle can take a beating and survive being thrown around. The spill-proof design also saves parents from constantly cleaning up messes. The best part is that the bottle’s odor-proof material won’t give away the location of hidden spills.
But what we love most about this bottle is its design, which encourages kids to drink like grown-ups. The soft plastic mouthpiece and rubberized top make it easy and comfortable to use. Even better, the bottle is built to withstand the rough handling of toddlers.
Tommee Tippee Insulated Sportee Water Bottle – Easiest To Hold Water Bottle
- Can withstand all sorts of beatings from a toddler without getting damaged
- These are truly leak proof
- Easy to clean
- The insulation is pretty thick
- It holds less than what it looks like on the outside
The Tommee Tippee Insulated Sportee Cup is perfect for active toddlers who enjoy walking, running, and climbing. It’s just the right size for small hands and can hold up to 9oz of refreshing cold water.
This bottle is designed to look like a grown-up cup but is made just for toddlers. The ergonomic shape makes it easy for little hands to hold, and the insulated base prevents condensation and keeps water cool.
What we love most about this cup is the semi-soft, super durable, bite-resistant spout. It’s gentle on little mouths, yet tough enough to withstand teething.
Elk and Friends Kids & Toddler Cups – Eco-Friendly Toddler Water Bottle
- Easy for toddler hands to hold
- The straw is just a regular straw – no valves, no need to bite to get water
- Mostly glass and silicone construction
- The cups come apart easily
- The silicone on the body of the cup comes off (extra piece to clean)
These eco-friendly toddler cups come with convenient measurement lines, portion control has never been easier. The colorful silicone sleeves not only add a fun pop of color but also protect against bumps and improve grip for tiny hands.
Thanks to the clever closure, you won’t have to worry about your child removing the straw from the jar. These jars can be used for sipping, storage, or even as a sippy cup! Plus, with just a few pieces, they’re easy to assemble, use, and clean.
How To Choose The Best Water Bottles For Toddlers?
- Plastic Vs. Stainless: Plastic water bottles are usually less expensive and lighter in weight, but they can be more prone to leaking, just be sure to pick one that is BPA-free (1). Stainless steel water bottles are more durable and less likely to leak, but they are often more expensive.
- Size: The size of the water bottle is also an important consideration. Toddlers are typically small in size, so a water bottle that is too large can be cumbersome for them to carry.
- Design: If you choose a water bottle with your child’s favorite cartoon characters, it will shorten the lifespan of the bottle. This is because kids’ tastes often change, and as they get older, they usually don’t want to use anything that is too childish.
- Durability: You want to make sure the water bottle is durable. Toddlers are very active and can drop their water bottle or throw it around. You want to make sure the water bottle can withstand some wear and tear.
- Capacity: If your child spends a lot of time in a car or outdoors, you might want to get a water bottle with a larger capacity. You can get water bottles that hold up to 32 ounces, but most water bottles for toddlers and kids hold between 8 and 12 ounces.
- Extra Features: Some water bottles for toddlers come with a built-in straw, while others have a screw-on cap. Some water bottles also have a carrying strap or handle, which can be helpful for toddlers who are constantly on the go.
What’s The Best Type Of Reusable Water Bottle?
There are a lot of different options when it comes to reusable water bottles, and it can be hard to decide which one is right for your kid. Here are a few of the most popular types of reusable water bottles to help you make a decision.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel water bottles are a great option if you’re looking for something durable. They’re often insulated, so they can keep your water cold for hours. They’re also relatively lightweight, making them easy to carry.
- Plastic: Plastic water bottles are a good budget-friendly option. They’re usually lightweight and easy to carry, and many of them are dishwasher-safe.
- Glass: Glass water bottles are a good choice if you’re looking for something eco-friendly. They’re often made with recycled glass, and they don’t contain any harmful chemicals. Glass bottles are also easy to clean and can be reused over and over again.
There are also a few things to keep in mind when choosing a reusable water bottle. Make sure to choose a bottle that’s BPA-free. You should also make sure the bottle is dishwasher safe, so you can easily clean it.
When Can I Begin To Use A Water Bottle For My Toddler?
Some toddlers may be ready to use a water bottle as early as 18 months old, while others may not be ready until they are 2 or 3 years old. If your toddler is showing an interest in using a water bottle, you can try giving them one to use during supervised activities. If they seem to be struggling with it, it’s best to wait until they are a bit older.
Are Small-Neck Water Bottles Safe For Toddlers?
Small-neck water bottles may not be safe for toddlers as they pose a choking hazard. Toddlers have a tendency to put objects in their mouth, and a small-neck water bottle can easily get lodged in their throat. There’s actually been a few cases where a child’s tongue got stuck in the water bottle (2).
Should I Find A Toddler Water Bottle With A Straw, Bite Valve, Or Sippy Spout?
Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to decide which is best for your child.
A straw water bottle is a good option for kids who are old enough to drink from a straw. These bottles are easy to use and can be drunk quickly. However, straw water bottles can be difficult to clean, and the straws can become moldy if not cleaned properly.
Bite-valve water bottles are perfect for kids who are still learning how to use a straw. The bite valve allows your child to control the flow of water, which can help prevent spills. However, bite valves can be difficult to clean, and the valves can become moldy if not cleaned properly.
Sippy spout water bottles are the best option for kids who are just learning to drink from a bottle. The sippy spout is easy to use and helps prevent spills. However, sippy spouts can be difficult to clean, and the spouts can become moldy if not cleaned properly.
How Often Should Toddlers’ Water Bottles Be Cleaned?
It is recommended that toddlers’ water bottles be cleaned on a daily basis. This will help to prevent the build-up of bacteria and other harmful contaminants that can potentially make your child sick. If you are unable to clean the water bottle every day, be sure to at least rinse it out with clean water and let it air dry before reusing it.
How Can You Tell If A Water Bottle Is Leakproof?
A water bottle is typically considered to be leakproof if it has a tight seal that prevents liquid from escaping. There are a few ways to test if a water bottle is leakproof.
One way is to fill the bottle with water and then seal it. Then, turn the bottle upside down and shake it. If the water does not leak out, then the bottle is likely leakproof.
Another way to test is to fill the bottle with water and seal it. Then, place the bottle in a bowl of water. If the water level in the bowl does not rise, then the bottle is likely leakproof.
