This is the shocking reason why you should never reuse any mineral water bottle even if you’ve never poured in hot water

Last Updated on 2016-06-20 , 1:25 pm

Ever used one of these mineral water bottles?

Some people think they’re saving the environment by reusing it more than once, but that’s where you’re wrong!

Reusing these one-time use mineral water bottles can cause leaching – a process that leaks harmful chemicals as a result of normal wear and tear. Even if you have never poured in hot water into these bottles, chances of you consuming the harmful chemicals upon your second or third refill, is high.

The chemical released depends on the plastic type. Plastic containers are generally categorized by numbers (#1 to #7); most of the mineral water bottles that we use are numbered 1. Those numbered 2,4 and 5 are considered safe.

The plastic numbered 1 is called polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In a nutshell, the plastic used in these bottles contains a potentially carcinogenic element (something called diethylhydroxylamine or DEHA). These are meant for one-time use only; repeated washing and rinsing can cause the plastic to break down and the carcinogens (which causes cancer) can leach into the water that you are drinking!

If you really need a plastic bottle to use daily, it’s better to invest in water bottles that are really meant for multiple uses. Better to be safe than sorry!