Branded water bottles are a hugely popular giveaway. According to the BPMA survey, 94% of consumers aged 16-40 own at least one reusable water bottle. Yet, the market is flooded with many cheap options that quickly lose appeal. So, with so many choices, how do you pick items your clients and employees will keep and use?
Here at Swag42, we get dozens of questions about custom-branded water bottles, which are always the same.
What material is going to last? When does it start smelling? What promotional water bottles are handy/comfortable for sports marathons? And what kind of water bottle is the most durable for everyday use?
We’ve put all those concerns into a short guide, where we:
- Break down different bottle options suited for various occasions
- Offer pro tips for creative customization and branding
- Provide examples to inspire your choice
Types of branded water bottles and their best uses
Tumblers
Tumblers are stylish, environmentally friendly water bottles perfect for on-the-go use. They fit a car’s cup holder and have a handle and a straw for easy drinking.
Tumblers can be insulated and non-insulated. Insulated tumblers feature double-wall construction, often vacuum-sealed, which allows them to keep drinks hot for hours and cold even longer. Non-insulated tumblers are typically single-walled, lighter, and more cost-effective.
Key uses:
- Daily desk use
- Coffee shops
- Commuting
- Gym
Tips for choosing your branded tumbler:
- Opt for durable materials like recycled stainless steel and a BPA-free plastic lid for longevity and eco-friendliness.
- Look for splash-proof or secure-slide lids, especially for on-the-go use.
- Choose popular drink sizes, such as 16-20 oz tumblers (approximately 500-600 ml) for everyday use or 30 oz tumblers (approximately 900 ml) that hold enough liquid for the entire day and let people avoid constant refills.
Our catalog has a great selection of branded tumblers, including the ever-popular Stanley tumblers. These are a big hit with Gen Z and millennials, thanks to their versatile design and many color choices.
Personalized water bottles
Custom water bottles are a go-to choice for gym-goers, frequent travelers, and eco-conscious workers. They come in various sizes and shapes, so everyone can find something they like. The most popular choices are glass, plastic, and stainless steel water bottles.
Key uses:
- Daily desk use
- Gym
- City walks
- Sports marathons
Tips for choosing your branded water bottle:
- For active use, prioritize durable materials like stainless steel or aluminium. Lower quality plastic bottles can scratch on the inside over time, creating tiny havens for bacteria to grow, which unfortunately leads to unpleasant odors.
- For eco-conscious choices, look for BPA-free Tritan that resists odors and stains, and is typically dishwasher-safe.
- Choose wide mouths to make cleaning easier.
Swag42 has a large selection of promotional water bottles made from high-quality materials, including Tritan, stainless steel, aluminum, and glass.
Thermo bottles
Thermo bottles are designed with a double-wall construction to keep drinks at their ideal temperature for many hours. Perfect for employee appreciation gifts or as a part of a premium welcome kit, showing you care about their comfort all day long.
Key uses:
- Long commutes
- Outdoor adventures
Tips for choosing your custom thermo bottle:
- Look for leak-proof screw caps or secure press-on lids that create a tight seal to maximize temperature retention and prevent spills.
- Consider powder-coated finishes for better grip and scratch resistance, especially outdoors.
Mugs
Mugs are a timeless promotional item, perfect for everyday office or home use. They are a daily reminder of your brand, accompanying a morning coffee or an afternoon tea.
Key uses:
- Morning coffee at home
- Office coffee breaks
- Virtual meetings companion
- Takeaway coffee
Tips for choosing your branded mug:
- Opt for microwave and dishwasher-safe options for ease of heating and cleaning. Encourage your employees to reuse their mugs instead of opting for paper cups.
- Avoid too lightweight, cheap options, aiming for a comfortable, sturdy feel.
- Sustainable materials like bamboo or stainless steel, playful designs, and unique textures fit best.
Customization and branding tips
To make the most of your custom-branded water bottles, follow these tips:
1. Choose the proper branding method. For example, laser engraving on stainless steel or aluminum is unbeatable in quality, ensuring your logo won’t fade or chip. High-quality screen printing with durable inks will also last long. Digital printing can deliver intricate, multi-color designs, but always ensure your provider uses resilient inks designed to prevent fading or scratching, especially if dishwasher use is expected.
2. Ensure your logo is visible. The most common placement for immediate visibility is the central front. For a sleek look, run your logo vertically along the bottle side. For a subtle, discrete touch, consider placing it on the bottom.
3. Include your company’s message. Add a phrase that reflects your brand’s values or mission.
4. Design to reflect your brand. Opt for a simple, clean logo for an elegant, sleek look. If your brand is vibrant and energetic, go for bold, eye-catching branding.
5. Invest in high-quality materials. Premium materials like stainless steel or Tritan ensure your branding lasts longer, keeping bottle holders happy and hydrated for years.
Best uses for promotional water bottles
Event giveaways
Use high-quality custom drinkware as part of your event merch giveaway. Attendees will appreciate a functional item over fleeting brochures, so your brand will travel far beyond the event hall.
A Tritan plastic water bottle is perfect for mass distribution thanks to its lightweight.
A stainless steel tumbler or mug is ideal for smaller, more intimate workshops.
Welcome kits
Integrate branded water bottles, like Stanley tumblers or Tritan bottles, into onboarding kits for new hires to make a positive first impression. They will use them regularly at their desks or on the go, continuously showcasing your brand.
Employee appreciation gifts
Gift your employees a stylish thermo mug or an insulated water bottle to keep their coffee hot during early commutes or water cold during long walks. For sports enthusiasts and gym goers, opt for leakproof water bottles.
Sports events and marathons
Provide your employees with lightweight, leakproof branded water bottles at hydration stations or in finisher bags. It’s a simple way to display your company’s message while supporting participants in their fitness journey.
Client and business partner gifts
Say “thank you” or celebrate a new contract with your clients or business partners with high-quality drinkware. Opt for premium choices like a Stanley tumbler or mug.
Choosing promotional water bottles? Or need assistance with bottle customization? Contact our team for consultation. We’re always happy to help!