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It’s 2024. Have you secured your emotional support water bottle?
I shop for a living — this is the Stanley tumbler I use to get through the daily grind.
It seems like everyone has a water bottle companion these days, with reusable thermoses — and especially certain tumblers — becoming the ultimate self-care accessory. They’re sustainable, economical, fashionable — even vital — but could there be more to these trendy bottles? Social media jokingly calls them "emotional support water bottles," but could they be a true comfort item that actually helps us to self-soothe?
Studies say upping your H20 intake can help curb anxiety and depression, allowing you to see the world as a cup half full. And as for all those beautifully colored canisters? Having a happy hue by your side all day may impart soothing or uplifting benefits. You might even say that water bottles are the grownup equivalent of a child’s favorite binkie or blankie!
Intrigued, I tested over 100 water bottles to find a worthy sidekick and the beautiful, durable Stanley IceFlow is the one I'm taking everywhere with me. Keep scrolling for more on what makes it better than the competition (Spoiler: It’s spill-proof!) and how it can help you stay cool, calm and collected at home and on the move.
Top-rated: More than 23,000 Amazon customers rely on this baby to stay hydrated while looking chic.
Why the Stanley IceFlow?
As a senior shopping writer at Yahoo Life, I've tried my share of water bottles in my quest to find the best, with the Stanley IceFlow emerging as the one to beat. I use it to stay hydrated while working from my apartment and frequently take it to go when I leave ... sometimes it feels like it's become a veritable extension of me!
Like Stanley's popular Quencher, the IceFlow is constructed of a durable stainless steel body with double vacuum insulation for keeping cold drinks cold (in this case, up to 12 hours) and comes in a striking assortment of patterns and color combos, from pastels and neutrals to brights and stripes.
It's leak-proof
What sets the IceFlow apart from the more famous Stanley is that, with the straw folded down, it's completely leak-proof — a non-negotiable for me.
While the IceFlow doesn't have a lid cover like some flip-straw styles, folding the straw offers adequate protection, so I'm less concerned than I've been with other bottles about dirt, debris or other contaminants getting into my water.
It's comfortable to carry
The IceFlow features a flexible handle hinged on the lid, which I've found to be more comfortable for carrying than the FlowState and other traditional cruiser styles. Because it's leak-resistant and the handle lays flat, this savvy canister is also ideal for packing: I just flip the straw down and toss it right in my tote or duffle bag when I want to transport water or another cold beverage to the office or while traveling.
The 30-ounce size is large enough to hold substantial liquid while still fitting snugly in my car cup holder so I stay calm and hydrated during long drives (read: ride or die). It also fits in my bike and treadmill cup holders — and the top handle and flip straw are convenient for sneaking in sips during group cycles and workouts!
It's low-maintenance
Last but not least, for being such a good companion, "Flow" is extremely low maintenance, with a condensation-proof coat (no coaster required!) that wipes down easily. And all parts are dishwasher-safe, which has been a savior for when it needs a deeper clean.
What reviewers are saying
But you don't have to take my word for it: the Stanley IceFlow is backed by over 23,000 Amazon reviewers who rely on it for their everyday needs:
“Retro colors, super cute,” wrote one reviewer. “... helps me stay hydrated so yay. I also like [how Stanleys] can take a beating and still hold up pretty well.”
“I bought this as a gift for my husband because we travel a lot …” explained another. “... It's solid and feels secure. The thing he loves most is that it's easy to drink out of. It also does a really nice job of keeping his water cold for quite a while so he can better work on his eight cups per day. It's light and easy to carry around.”
“The inclusion of a leakproof flip lid is a small detail that makes a big difference,” noted a third. “It means I can confidently toss this tumbler into my bag without worrying about spills or leaks. It's the perfect solution for those of us who are always on the move.”
Like me, a fourth reviewer considers the IceFlow among the best Stanley has to offer. “... I adore the leakproof flip straw, it keeps my ice for two entire days and the 30-ounce version is perfect if you’re petite, have small hands or aren’t very strong …”
Low-maintenance: All parts are dishwasher-safe and easy to clean. There’s even a lifetime guarantee!
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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