What's the danger of re-using bottled water jugs?

[Mahk]

I don't buy much bottled water, I mostly use filtered tap water, but I'm curious why the bottled water containers have a warning on them not to re-use them? That seems rather damaging to the environment but then again is there some danger I am unaware of that re-filling them has?:confused:

I guess if one puts their lips to the opening to drink it indeed wouldn't be a good idea to not wash and clean the container first, but otherwise what would the risk be to re-use them?

[Risker]

I was wondering that too, I'm constantly reusing plastic bottles.

[ellaminnowpea]

I think it has to do with the chemicals used in the processing/ treatment of plastic to make it into bottles.

[Fungus]

http://www.plasticsinfo.org/s_plasticsinfo/sec_level2_faq.asp?CID=705&DID=2839
http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/consumers/food-safety-topics/chemicals-in-food/waterbottles/index.htm
Seems to be no real evidence and will just be the manufacturers covering their backs as usual ..

[Mahk]

Good links there Fungus, thanks. Seems OK if I wash them between each use but I don't think that's gonna happen.:lol: I never touch the opening and recover and cap immediately after dispensing so I think I'll be safe but I won't use the same container for months on end like I had been before cleaning.

I think I'm a bit more hygienic than those school kids in the University of Calgary Study mentioned. I see now why they have warning labels because kids use them too.

[Fungus]

or maybe if someone just happens to accidentally fill it up with dry ice on top and close the cap .. ;)


But tbh I think way too many people are over-scared about bacteria; any bacteria that would get into the bottle would be that which was already in your mouth .... <grrs>

[Agatha]

what?! i had never even noticed that. i always refill my bottles with filtered tap water and don't chuck them away (into the recycling) until i really have to.

[VeganDaze]

I heard that because they aren't designed to last, if you keep re-using them the plastic chemicals start to leach in to the water. I normally just use one a few times, rather than for ages.
Those sites don't appear to support this, but I do find the water tastes weird if a bottle is used too much (I do wash them!)