I've always struggled to drink enough water. I know, I know, but it's not that I don't like water, I just can't ever get myself to follow the 8-by-8 rule. You know the theory that we should all be drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day? But I figure if I want to be healthy and show off a radiant complexion (for as long as humanly possible), then it's about time I start drinking more water already. Thing is, I've been drinking my water from a disposable water bottle I bought weeks ago and apparently this is the most dangerous thing you could ever do!
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Of course, I want to feel and look my best, but drinking water from a disposable plastic bottle could actually do more harm than good. Ask yourself this question: When is the last time you actually washed that water bottle? Most of us think that because we're only filling it up with water that it doesn't need to be thoroughly cleaned but that's a big NO-NO. Refilling single-use water bottles contains a ton of safety risks. They eventually break down and act as a bacteria magnet if used more than one time. Pretty gross, right? If you still don't believe me, here are five reasons why you should never reuse a plastic water bottle!
1. It can cause bacterial growth: Even if you actually did clean your water bottles consistently with soap and water, it still doesn't make them safe. The problem is, disposable water bottles are practically impossible to clean in the inside because they're meant just for single-use. Repeated use and washings can cause the plastic to break down, causing cracks and thinning. Bacteria can eventually makes its way into those cracks putting you in serious danger.
2. It's worse than food poisoning: News station KLTV performed a study where they examined bacteria levels in water bottles that were used for an entire week without EVER being washed. "All of those grew lots and lots of bacteria that could make you very sick almost like having food poisoning," Richard Wallace, M.D., of the University of Texas Health Center told KLTV. "That can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. Basically the worst vomiting you have ever had in your life." Yuck!
3. The dishwasher won't cut it: According to Livestrong.com, cleaning disposable water bottles in the dishwater is even more dangerous. Because most plastic water bottles are made from polyethylene terephthalate, cleaning them in a high-heat environment could cause them to leak chemicals that can even cause cancer. Pretty scary stuff, right?
4. It's not good for the environment: You might think that reusing a disposable plastic water bottle prevents putting more waste into the landfills but it's quite the opposite. By refusing these containers, and washing them, you're actually eating up natural resources. Think about it: You're using soap, water and other detergents that will eventually break down the bottle anyway. Want to be sustainable? Buy less disposable plastic items!
5. It's time to switch your bottle: Make your life easier and try a glass or stainless steel bottle instead. With these you don't have to worry about chemical leakage. But make sure you're still cleaning them regularly and drying properly before reusing!
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