The best toddler water bottles to keep your little one hydrated

The best toddler water bottles

by Samantha Ball |
Updated on

Finding the best toddler water bottle that not only encourages your little one to drink but is also leakproof and easy to use can feel impossible. But, when you find one that works for you and your toddler, it can really make a difference in keeping them hydrated and helping them enjoy their favorite toddler drink.

You might have mainly been offering water to your little one with their meals with a kid's beaker to encourage independent drinking. Still, one of these cups might not be as easy to use if you're trying to get your little one to drink more water throughout the day or if they attend nursery and need a water bottle with their lunchbox.

Best toddler water bottles at a glance:

Best overall toddler water bottle

Contigo Kids Water Bottle

Best for encouraging them to drink more

airup Mini Sippers

Best two-pack toddler water bottle

Nuby Super Quench Water Bottle

Best large-capacity toddler water bottle

Fringoo 600ml kids water bottle with straw

Open cups and beakers are great for teaching your child how to drink from a cup properly, and they are great for older toddlers. However, when younger toddlers and babies start to drink water, they're not as practical when on the go or to have close by because they are easily spilled. A toddler water bottle is great to have around the house and out and about so your little one can grab it whenever they feel thirsty.

Most toddler water bottles come with fun designs and practical functions such as leak-proof designs - which we all know is a huge help when in the hands of a toddler! There are many factors to consider. Do you want a plastic or stainless steel bottle? What kind of top will suit your little one? Some toddlers prefer straws or flip tops rather than a wide opening. You could also consider if the bottle is insulated to keep their drink cold on a hot day at nursery and check if it is robust enough to withstand the inevitable drops and bashes it will get in the hands of an energetic toddler.

Best kids water bottles 2024

Best overall toddler water bottle

Contigo Water BottleMOTHER&BABY
Price: £48.62

The Contigo Kids Water Bottle is one that you really want to invest in. It is designed to be fully leakproof, with a press button to access the drinking spout. This bottle can be tipped upside-down even with the spout open, and not a drop of water leaks out. The parts inside the bottle also stay together to clean and help prevent losing anything when washing up.

Our Product and lifestyle Writer, Samantha Ball, said: "We go through so many water bottles in our house. If they're not constantly leaking, we're losing the straws, or they're breaking, but this water bottle has really changed things. My daughter tips it up and shakes it about, but not a single drop of water leaves the bottle, which also means our bags are not getting soaked when out and about when the bottle accidentally tips over.

"It is also incredibly easy to clean, and the straw stays attached to the bottle, so we aren't constantly losing it. It is incredibly good value for money and I've definitely spent the same on three different bottles over the last few weeks, whereas this one has actually lasted."

Pros

  • The AutoSpout lid and valve protect the opening from dirt and create a leakproof design
  • The straw is attached so it prevents it from being lost and having to be replaced
  • This bottle is dishwasher-safe and easy to clean, making it hassle-free

Cons

  • Younger toddlers might take a while to get used to the pop-up straw mechanism
Capacity:420ml
Dimensions:11 x 8 x 17cm
Weight:107g
BPA Free:Yes
  • Rubber strap to prevent parts getting lost
  • Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
  • 100 per cent leak proof
  • Protective cap for straw

Best for encouraging them to drink more

Air up mini sippers©Air up

Ideal for little ones who you constantly have to remind to drink more, the latest innovation from Airup is specifically designed for keeping younger tots hydrated. Designed with smaller hands in mind, the click-and-sip flip cap is leakproof, and it's made from fully recycled materials. This particular bottle comes in three different colour options and comes with three Watermelon, Lime, and Wild Berry pods included with the bottle to get you started.

If you didn't already know about airup, its genius patented Scentaste™ technology transforms plain water into a tasty drinking experience – through scent only! When you pop a scent pod on the bottle, it releases the smell to your nose, and as you sip, the scented air travels through the straw and combines with the water. Your brain interprets this scent as flavour, so it tastes like you’re drinking something fruity, even though it’s just plain water.

Pros

  • Totally leak-proof design, so is ideal for carrying in bags
  • Makes the water taste flavoured so is great for encouraging kids to drink
  • Different flavour pods are available to choose from

Cons

  • You have to regularly buy pods for £6.99 for three to make the most of this bottle
Capacity:600ml
Dimensions:Height: 250mm
Weight:170g
BPA Free:Yes
  • EasyOpen – Click & Sip mechanism for easy opening for little ones
  • Tritan™ Renew – made from certified recycled materials
  • Made with 100% renewable energy

Best two-pack toddler water bottle

Nuby water bottles MOTHER&BABY

Diggers and fire engines, what more could a little one want from a water bottle? Well, we'll tell you; at a pop of a button, the silicone spout pops up to allow your weeny one to drink like a grown-up. One reviewer noted that their daughter coped fine with the button and loved the large grab handle.

Parents love the Nuby water bottles for their durability, practicality, and attractive designs – not to mention the bottles' leak-proof construction, dishwasher-safe feature, and fun patterns, making them ideal for kids and toddlers. Customers have also highlighted the bottles' resilience to drops and frequent washing; M&B tester and Contributor Sophie Knight said: "I really liked how the button to open the spout was at the back of the bottle; this seemed to make it more intuitive, and easier for my daughter to press and open it herself. It's also a good price for a pack of two because water bottles seem to go missing very quickly in our house, so it's good to have a backup."

Sounds like this water bottle is going to go the distance. A few minor issues have been mentioned in reviews, such as a stiff button or occasional leakage.

Pros

  • The pop-up silicone spout feature is activated with an easy-to-use button
  • The pack of 2 bottles offers a spare bottle for backup
  • The no-spill design is ideal for active toddlers
  • This water bottle is dishwasher-safe
  • It allows children to drink independently, along with a carry handle

Cons

  • To ensure proper functionality, the valve mechanism requires regular maintenance
  • Nuby offers 2 designs, but the lack of alternative options may limit choices
Capacity:540ml
Dimensions:8 x 11 x 24cm
Weight:380g
BPA Free:Yes
  • Carry handle
  • Press button to release spout
  • Leak proof design

Best large-capacity toddler water bottle

Fringoo 600ml kids water bottle with straw MOTHER&BABY

If your little one has a bottomless belly and loves to drink, this large-capacity water bottle, with its 600ml capacity—larger than most toddler water bottles — will save you filling up every five minutes.

Reviewers seem to approve of the leak-proof design, agreeing that the water bottle ensures a mess-free sipping experience while moving. The convenient straw allows for easy sipping, and it's kept clean by the flip-top design. Parents think this product is great value for money, suitably resistant to wear and tear, and very functional; however, some find the clasp a little less durable than other bottles we've tested; M&B tester and Contributor Sophie Knight said: "The clasp for closing the spout doesn't feel as sturdy as some, and it feels like it might snap off with regular use. I love the design of this cheerful bottle, and it's great that it's larger than most - although that does make it a bit heavy for my little one to carry by herself when it's full."

We love the fact that it comes in 16 vibrant designs to suit little girls and boys no matter what your little one is into. Designs include dinosaurs, robots, animals, unicorns, monster trucks, and more.

Pros

  • This bottle has a large capacity of 600ml, which reduces the need to refill as often
  • They are durable, so can withstand the general wear and tear of daily usage
  • Fringoo offers lots of designs for different personalities
  • The bottle has a flip-top design to help keep the straw clean from any germs when not in use

Cons

  • They may require cleaning and airing out before use due to a plastic odour when first opened
  • Spout clasp might not be as sturdy as others
Capacity:600 ml / 20 Oz
Dimensions:10 x 10 x 15 cm
Weight:160 g
BPA Free:‎Bisphenol A (BPA) Free
  • Flip top design prevents leak
  • BPA-Free
  • 16 vibrant designs
  • 600ml capacity

Best flip-top toddler water bottle

TUM TUM water bottle MOTHER&BABY

We've spotted a water bottle that any toddler will be happy to receive. From its colourful, cute design to the flip-top lid with straw that's easily openable for little hands, the TUM TUM Flip-Top Water Bottle is built to last. It's also dishwasher safe; it's made from Tritan plastic, which is designed to be more hard-wearing than normal plastic.

Kids love the cheerful design, and parents appreciate its durability, resilience to drops, and soft straw, which ensures safe drinking for toddlers. A few minor issues come up in reviews, like occasional leaking and difficulty cleaning the straw, but generally, this seems to be a popular product that's suitable for children's daily use; M&B tester and Contributor Sophie Knight said: "I love the cheerful dog design on this water bottle, and my daughter does too. The spout opens and closes with a reassuring 'click,' so I feel confident it's closed and leak-proof."

Pros

  • The water bottle is dishwasher safe, so is easy to clean and maintain
  • With the bottle being made from Tritan plastic, it makes it durable and resistant to shattering
  • The bottle has an easy-to-open flip-spout top for little hands and a soft straw
  • It's BPA-free, meaning it's safer to store beverages without the risk of harmful chemicals

Cons

  • It can occasionally leak, which could be a concern
Capacity:400ml
Dimensions:6 x 24cm
Weight:150g
BPA Free:Yes
  • Easy to open flip-top
  • Dishwasher safe

Best eco-friendly toddler water bottle

Greens steel water bottle redMOTHER&BABY
Price: £14.99

The Greens Easy Sip Water Bottle is made of stainless steel that doesn't rust, so it helps to keep your toddler's water cool and is long-lasting. It's easy to hold for toddlers and also has a convenient carry handle. A handy little brush is included for cleaning the straw and spout.

Parents are generally happy with this water bottle's durability, ease of use, and spill-proof features, with one customer describing that theirs has been thrown to the ground many times indoors and outdoors but has held up nicely. M&B tester and Contributor Sophie Knight said: "We've had two of these in our family for a while now, and they are durable because they're made from steel. They dint if you drop or bang them hard, but a dint is fine compared to if made from plastic and broken. Our first bottle broke - the plastic spout part - after about six months, and I couldn't get hold of any customer service because it was outside the refund time period. The biggest selling point of these bottles is that the water stays cool inside - great for days out in summer."

Other reviews have expressed issues such as broken parts, difficulty cleaning, and leakage. Despite mixed experiences, parents love the kid-friendly size, attractive designs, and the manufacturer's efforts to provide customer support. One downside is that it's harder to see inside the bottle—you can't check how much your child has drunk or how clean it is that easily. It is dishwasher-safe, though.

Pros

  • This steel bottle helps keep water cool for longer periods
  • The bottle is made out of stainless steel, which is non-toxic, preventing harmful chemicals from going into the water
  • All of the Greens Easy Sip Water Bottles are environmentally friendly by using reusable materials
  • These bottles are dishwasher safe but also come with a brush to be able to get right into the straw

Cons

  • Due to the material they are made out of, they tend to be slightly heavier than other bottles
  • The stainless steel material prevents visibility inside, making it difficult to monitor water intake and check for cleanliness
Capacity:350ml
Dimensions:18.8 x 18.8 x 26.42cm
Weight:229g
BPA Free:Yes
  • Carry handle
  • Easy-sip straw
  • Included straw brush

Best reusable metal toddler water bottle

FEIJIAN Kids Water BottleMOTHER&BABY

With a range of pretty designs, the FEIJIAN Kids Water Bottle has a straw lid and helps to keep drinks cool for up to 24 hours. It's spill-proof and has a lock button, too. It's easy to clean, and the lid can go in the dishwasher. Parents have commented on the thoughtful features such as spill-proof locks and comfortable holding.

One stand-out point is that this bottle has a spare straw, which is great if the first one breaks. It also comes with two cleaning sponges and a brush, making it easy to clean and maintain. The button is easy to press, and the handle is at a good angle for little hands. M&B tester and Contributor Sophie Knight said: "I loved the extra cleaning accessories that came with this bottle, which make it much simpler to clean. My daughter found the button really easy to use and liked holding it as she walked."

What makes this bottle different from others? It's made from stainless steel and is insulated, meaning cold drinks will stay cooler for even longer—great for days out. The brand states that it can be used for hot drinks, too, but we urge caution when giving your child a hot drink in a bottle with a spout.

There are mixed reviews regarding broken parts, difficulty cleaning, and leakage. However, one customer highly recommends the water bottle, with theirs still going strong after a year, and another commented on the fact that theirs has been dropped multiple times with little to no damage at all. Reviews have also mentioned the excellent customer service provided by the company, including swift replacements for damaged parts.

Pros

  • The bottle is made from stainless steel, so is very durable and resistant to rust.
  • It is an insulated bottle that helps keep hot drinks for 12 hours and cold drinks for 24.
  • It has a wide mouth opening, which makes it easier to clean and allows you to put ice cubes in it.
  • These bottles are spill-proof due to a lock button that keeps the straw down.

Cons

  • The lid can go in the dishwasher, but the bottle part isn't recommended.
Capacity:400ml
Dimensions:19 x 7cm
Weight:340g
BPA Free:Yes
  • Double wall vacuumed
  • Safety lock to keep straw enclosed

Best insulated toddler water bottle

SHO water bottleMOTHER&BABY

Unlike simple plastic water bottles, this water bottle has many fun designs, but with double-wall insulation, it keeps beverages hot or cold for hours. Again, we would urge caution when putting hot drinks in your child's bottle and only under supervision.

We love that it comes with two lids, including a spill-proof straw lid, and it is made from durable stainless steel; M&B tester and Contributor Sophie Knight said: "I love that this bottle comes with a stopper top, so it can be used once your little one grows out of wanting a straw. The feel of the bottle is tactile and different from most, which I liked, and my daughter likes holding it, too. The spout is a little stiff for tiny fingers, though."

Although the bottles may not be fully spill-proof, parents seem to think they are worth the investment.

Pros

  • The bottle has double-wall insulation, which helps keep drinks hot for 12 hours or cold for 24
  • SHO offers lots of designs, appealing to all tastes and preferences
  • This bottle comes with two lids, one with a straw and handle, and another that screws on

Cons

  • Due to the double wall insulation, some have said that condensation started forming on the exterior of the bottle
Capacity: 260ml
Dimensions: 6.5 x 6.5 x 19 cm
Weight: 230g
Material: Stainless steel
  • Made from stainless steel
  • Double wall insulation
  • Includes two lids
  • Includes spill proof straw

Best toddler water bottle with straw

OLDLEY stainless steel water bottleMOTHER&BABY

Despite being made from stainless steel, The OLDLEY stainless steel bottle guarantees no funky metallic taste. With its double-walled insulation, it keeps drinks at the perfect temperature, whether refreshingly chilled in summer or warm and cosy in winter - as always, be careful putting hot drinks in your child's bottle. Plus, say goodbye to leaks with its built-in sealing ring and spill-proof dust cover. It also comes with a removable straw and a handy straw-cleaning brush, which reviewers love.

Let's not forget the fun factor – designed with small hands in mind, its size is just right for easy gripping, and your little one can choose from various playful designs like cats, dinosaurs, and cars to match their personality. There's also a handle strap for little ones to grab hold of easily; M&B tester and Contributor Sophie Knight said: "My daughter likes to use the handle strap, making it easy for her to hold on to; I like the secure close-on the button, meaning it's less likely to be spilled everywhere."

Parents have suggested improvements, such as a slightly longer straw and a fabric holder; however, the customer service is highly commended.

Pros

  • This bottle helps keep cold drinks for 24 hours and hot drinks for 12 due to its double-wall insulation
  • It makes staying hydrated more enjoyable with all the fun designs on offer
  • It is easy to clean as it includes a wide mouth opening, a removable straw, and a cleaning brush
  • It offers a soft silicone straw that is flexible which helps toddlers who may have sensitive gums or teeth

Cons

  • The straw falls a bit short within the bottle, so some remaining drink is left
Capacity: 420ml/14oz
Material: Silicone, Stainless Steel
  • Removable straw and cleaning brush
  • bBuilt-in sealing ring
  • Insulated double-walled water bottle for insulation
  • Designs include: dinosaurs, cars, cats, dogs, ducks, foxes, frogs, hearts, mermaids, rainbows, sea, shark, unicorn, universe
  • 1 year guarantee

Best easy-to-clean toddler water bottle

Peppa Pig Water BottleMOTHER&BABY
Price: £22.32

This official Peppa Pig water bottle is super-cute, eco-friendly, and designed to keep your little one hydrated throughout the day with its 400ml capacity and engaging design. It features characters like Rebecca Rabbit, Suzy Sheep, Zoe Zebra, Granny Pig, and George Pig. More importantly, the bottle claims to be durable for everyday use and is leakproof with a child-friendly flip-up spout. It fits most drink holders and is easily cleaned with a removable straw and wide neck.

Parents love the quality of the thick plastic, leak-proof design, and easy cleaning features; however, some reviews have complained about receiving a faulty product.

It is the perfect toddler's water bottle and a practical and fun accessory for kids, to be used at nursery school, on play dates, and for days out; M&B tester and Contributor Sophie Knight said: "My daughter loves Peppa, so she's obsessed with this bottle and takes it everywhere. It's smaller than some bottles, making it easier for little ones to hold as it's lighter. It's simple and no-frills, but your child won't care about a lack of features if it's got Peppa on the side."

Pros

  • The bottle displays an official Peppa Pig and Friends design
  • This bottle comes with a flip-up straw and a handle making it easier for little hands
  • It is 100% BPA-free, ensuring it is non-toxic
  • It's hard-wearing due to being made out of recyclable and durable polypropylene

Cons

  • Slightly more difficult to clean due to the spout design
Capacity: 400ml 
Material: Reusable PP Plastic
  • Removable rigid internal pop-up straw
  • Screw on leak-proof lid
  • Official Peppa Pig design
  • See-through bottle

The best toddler water bottles: all you need to know

What does BPA mean?

When it comes to shopping for a water bottle, you must check whether it is BPA-proof. BPA simply stands for bisphenol A, which is a controversial chemical that can be found in some plastic bottles.

Is this bottle safe for my child to use?

Depending on the age of your little one, you must check whether they have small parts. For newborns to three-year-olds, water bottles shouldn’t contain any small parts or anything that detaches. There are very limited bottles that are recommended for this age group. Three to eight-year-olds also shouldn't drink from a water bottle that has any small parts. Still, proceed with caution when buying or giving your child a water bottle over the age of eight.

How can you tell if a water bottle is leakproof?

Spillages are something to consider if you’re about to buy a water bottle for your youngster. The best way to tell is to read the product description, which will usually outline whether there is a leakproof function or technology used.

What water bottle should a two-year-old use?

Two-year-olds can use any water bottle that doesn't have any detachable small bits. This lets them easily access the water without complicated openings or an opening where water can easily spill. It is also worthwhile thinking about water bottles that are somewhere between a beaker and sippy cup in their design, because these might be more appropriate for a two-year-old.

How we test toddler water bottles

All these water bottles have gone through real-life testing with toddlers, meaning we’ve put them through their paces just like you will.

The bottles have been filled with water and used on days out and around the house to discover how leak-proof they are, how easy the spouts or straws are to drink from, and how hard-wearing they are. Our toddlers testing these bottles are prone to dropping the bottles or throwing them around the room or the garden, so you can rest assured we’ve tested their durability to find out how sturdy they are and how well they cope with rigorous toddler activities. We’ve washed all the bottles in the dishwasher (if they are dishwasher safe) and by hand, and using any additional cleaning instruments that come with the bottles – such as brushes for straws and spouts and cleaning sponges.

Samantha Ball is a Product & Lifestyle Writer for Mother&Baby and freelanced for the website for two years before joining the team full time. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best products and cute outfits.

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