You probably bought a reusable stainless steel water bottle for both the health and financial benefits. With sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint at the forefront of our minds every day, it’s comforting to know that these bottles last longer and are better for the environment than plastic water bottles.
Stainless steel water bottles last an average of 12 years, but if you lose your bottle or think it has lived out its days, you might be wondering what to do with it. Can you throw stainless steel water bottles in the recycling bin? And if not, what should you do?
How to Recycle a Metal Bottle
Reusable metal water bottles are most commonly made of stainless steel, which is recyclable. But traditional curbside recycling programs will not recycle your metal bottle. The main reason is that these recycling programs crush and bale material for easy transport, and stainless steel bottles are generally uncrushable.
So where can you recycle your metal water bottle?
Your local metal recycling facility is the place to go. To find a facility near you, you can download the iScrap App.
10 Ways to Repurpose Your Bottle
Instead of scrapping your old stainless steel water bottle, maybe you want to give it a new life. Here are some ways you can repurpose this steel accessory.
Some bottles have printed measurements indicating ounces and millimeters. Use your bottle to measure water, broth, or other liquids when cooking.
Stainless steel bottles are great for carrying food mixes when camping. Just add some water, shake, and pour when you’re ready to cook.
Designate your old bottle to be a watering can for your plants.
You can also designate your bottle for your cat or dog. Label your bottle and use it to refill their water bowls when it gets low.
A frozen water bottle can serve as an ice pack when placed in a cooler with food and drinks. Fill it up with water, pop it in the freezer, and take it out when it’s ready to use.
Just as you might freeze small quantities of soup stock in ice cube trays, use your water bottle to contain leftover liquid for future use.
If you need to quickly mix something up, like a sports drink or tea, an old water bottle is the perfect alternative to a spoon. All you need to do is close the lid and shake.
Use your reusable bottle as a vase when transporting fresh-cut flowers or as a centerpiece on your dining room table.
Carry small-but-important items like first aid supplies in a bottle rather than letting them roll around loose in your luggage or tote bag. It’s durable and waterproof.
Don’t have a rolling pin? Now you do! The shape of your old stainless steel water bottle is perfect for rolling out dough. And if you need a circular cookie cutter, just use the mouth of the bottle.
If you’re on the look-out for an eco-friendly water bottle, check out our Roamer Bottles! It’s perfect for those who love to roam and wander. It will keep you hydrated all day long and you’ll never want to use plastic water bottles again!
