Are plastic bottles and lids safe?

Plastic lids on stainless steel bottles are no direct problem, because they do not come into contact with the liquid in the bottle. What is important, though, is that you do not put plastic lids and bottles in the dishwasher and do not expose them to high temperatures or direct sunlight, because when heated, plastic can release harmful substances such as bisphenol A (BPA). Choose bottles made of stainless steel or of material that is free from BPA, BPS and phthalates, such as the bottles from Liewood, Konges Slojd and Hegen.

Why do we take a critical look at plastic bottles and lids?

As parents we all want the best for our children, so we take a critical look at the products we use every day. Plastic bottles and lids have received a lot of attention recently. Are they safe? And what happens when we reuse them, especially in combination with high temperatures? Here we share our insights and what we have asked experts, so you can make the best choice with peace of mind.

What is DiBP and why is it a cause for concern?

DiBP is a plasticiser found not only in bottles, but also in many other everyday plastic products, such as toys, shoes and bottle caps. The substance can enter the body through inhalation or skin contact. The EU has restricted the use of DiBP, because it can be harmful to reproduction and to the development of unborn children. Yet it still frequently turns up in products we use every day.

Although the amount of DiBP found remained below the European limit, the presence of this substance concerns us. After all, children are exposed not only through bottles, but also through toys, clothing and other consumer products.

Are the plastic lids on stainless steel bottles safe?

After these results we took a critical look at the bottles we offer. We mainly sell stainless steel bottles, because they are known for their durability and safety. But the lids are often made of plastic. Could those be harmful too, and should we still be offering these bottles? We asked several experts, including Iris de Goede, orthomolecular therapist and expert in the field of hormone balance. She had reassuring news:

"The plastic lids are no direct problem, because they do not come into contact with the liquid in the bottle. The only thing that matters is that you do not put the lids in the dishwasher and do not expose them to high temperatures."

Iris de Goede, orthomolecular therapist

Many plastic products can release harmful substances when heated, such as bisphenol A (BPA), which is often linked to hormone disruption. So do not expose plastic bottles and lids to extreme heat, such as in the dishwasher or in direct sunlight.

What does Stichting Tegengif say?

We also received information from Stichting Tegengif, an organisation committed to a toxin-free world. According to director Annelies den Boer, European regulation around chemical substances is outdated:

"On average it takes more than 19 years before hazardous chemical substances are taken off the market. Meanwhile, the scientific evidence is growing that substances such as PFAS and plasticisers cause health risks, especially in children."

Annelies den Boer, director of Stichting Tegengif

For us, this underlines the need to handle these materials consciously.

Which water bottles are safe?

Choosing safe products is important, not only for health, but also so that children can drink comfortably and happily, wherever they are. Water bottles that are both safe and durable make a big difference. These water bottles from our range meet strict safety standards:

• Liewood water bottle: a beautifully designed water bottle that is both practical and environmentally friendly. Made of stainless steel, so no worries about harmful substances such as BPA or phthalates. The bottles are durable, easy to clean, keep drinks cool or warm and come in various adorable designs that will certainly appeal to your little one.
• Konges Slojd water bottle: a safe and stylish choice. The bottles are made of 100% BPA-free material and therefore contain no harmful chemical substances that can enter the body. They come in various sizes, so you always choose the right one, and are designed with the environment in mind.
• Hegen water bottle: specially designed for the comfort of parent and child. Made of high-quality polypropylene, free from BPA, BPS and other harmful substances. Thanks to the innovative design they are easy for small hands to hold, simple to clean and fill, and ideal for home and on the go.

Take a look at our range and choose the bottle that best suits your needs.

Finally

As a parent you always want the best for your little one, and we share that wish with you. We remain committed to offering safe and sustainable products that contribute to a healthy future. As Annelies den Boer puts it: "It is high time we took chemical substances seriously and chose safe alternatives." Do you have questions or would you like to know more about the bottles in our range? Feel free to get in touch with us.

Summary

• Plastic lids on stainless steel bottles are no direct problem: they do not touch the liquid in the bottle.
• Do not put plastic lids and bottles in the dishwasher and keep them out of the heat and direct sunlight; when heated, plastic can release substances such as BPA.
• The plasticiser DiBP has been restricted in the EU, but is still found in toys, shoes, clothing and bottle caps.
• According to Stichting Tegengif, it takes on average more than 19 years before hazardous substances are taken off the market.
• Safe choices are stainless steel bottles such as those from Liewood, and BPA-free bottles such as those from Konges Slojd and Hegen.

Frequently asked questions

Can a plastic lid go in the dishwasher?

Better not. At high temperatures plastic can release harmful substances. So do not put lids in the dishwasher and do not expose them to heat.

What is BPA?

Bisphenol A is a substance that plastic can release when heated and that is often linked to hormone disruption. So choose bottles made of stainless steel or of BPA-free material.