Can You Combine Essential Oils with Water in a Stainless Steel Cup? Let’s Find Out!
Essential oils have become a go-to for health enthusiasts, and it’s no surprise why. These little drops of plant power can transform your day—whether you're boosting your mood, supporting your immune system, or simply enjoying their refreshing aroma. But when it comes to adding essential oils to your water, one question often comes up: Can you use a stainless steel cup with essential oils, or should you stick to glass? Let’s break it down.
Why Stainless Steel is a Good Match
High-quality stainless steel cups, such as those made by Stanley, YETI, Hydro Flask, and HydroJug, are known for being durable, non-reactive, and resistant to corrosion. Unlike plastic, which can degrade or leach chemicals when exposed to essential oils (especially strong ones like citrus), stainless steel can handle the oils without breaking a sweat. This makes your trusty stainless steel cup a safe option for sipping on water infused with essential oils.
What About the Straw and Lid?
While the stainless steel body of the cup is essential-oil friendly, pay attention to the straw and lid. Most cups come with a straw and lid made of plastic or silicone. Here’s the catch: many essential oils—particularly citrus oils like lemon, orange, or grapefruit—can degrade certain plastics over time, potentially causing the material to break down or release unwanted chemicals into your drink. If you’re committed to using the straw, consider switching it out for a stainless steel or glass alternative to be on the safe side. For the lid, ensure it’s made of a material that won’t be affected by oils, or simply avoid prolonged contact by removing it when sipping.
Drinking Oils in Plastic Bottles
If you’re using a plastic water bottle, be aware that essential oils can quickly react with the material. This chemical reaction can cause the plastic to degrade, potentially leaching tiny particles of plastic into your water. To minimize this risk, it’s best to consume your drink shortly after adding essential oils to a plastic bottle. Alternatively, consider switching to stainless steel or glass to avoid this issue entirely while still enjoying the benefits of essential oils.
Essential Oils Can Help Sanitize Your Cup
Essential oils are incredibly potent, and their strength means they can sometimes leave a lingering taste in your cup. However, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing! Oils like lemon have natural sanitizing properties, making them a great tool for keeping your cup fresh and clean. Before your first use of the bottle and between uses, try cleaning out your bottle with a few drops of lemon oil to naturally cleanse the interior of your cup while giving your drink a bright, zesty flavor. Think of it as a bonus cleaning feature while you stay hydrated.
Why Essential Oils and Stainless Steel Cups Are a Dream Team
Combining essential oils with water in a stainless steel cup is not only safe but also convenient. Stainless steel keeps your water cool for hours, and the durability of the cup means you can take it anywhere—from the yoga studio to a hike in the mountains. Additionally, essential oils—besides enhancing your drink—can also boost your overall wellness with their therapeutic properties. By taking a few precautions with the lid and straw, you can enjoy the benefits of essential oils while staying hydrated in style.
Final Tips for Sipping Essential Oil-Infused Water
Start Small: If you’re new to drinking water with essential oils, start with mild oils like lemon or peppermint. These are not only refreshing but also great for digestion and energy.
Shake It Up: Since oils and water don’t naturally mix, give your cup a quick shake before each sip to keep the oil dispersed.
Stay Safe: Check for a “supplement facts” box on your essential oil bottle before use. If there is one present, it has been declared as safe to take internally. If you decide to use oils that do not contain this label, notice how your body reacts and make adjustments if necessary. Many, many oils are totally safe to consume internally if they are true 100% certified pure therapeutic grade.
So, can you mix essential oils with water in a stainless steel cup? Absolutely! Just make sure to watch out for plastic components, enjoy the sanitizing benefits of oils like lemon, and sip your way to wellness. Now you’re ready to stay hydrated, refreshed, and on top of your wellness game—no matter where life takes you!