I'm doubtful of crazes, including the water bottle fad sweeping TikTok and Instagram. So when Stanley tumblers started capturing the spotlight, I brushed it off as yet another social media sensation that would burn out.
That was until my friends gifted me my very own Stanley stainless steel bottle.
About two years ago, friends got me a Stanley IceFlow Flip Straw Tumbler, in a pretty rose quartz hue (unlike me, they're in tune with trendy products). So, I put aside my skepticism, embraced the craze and made the Stanley my go-to water bottle.
I admit the, the tumbler is worth the hype -- and unfortunately, the high price tag.
You shouldn't get a Stanley just because influencers tell you to (or even because I'm telling you to now). But if you want a water bottle that not only looks sleek but can keep water cold for a ridiculously long time (I've had ice last overnight), then a Stanley water bottle might be the answer. Discounts on these tumblers can be hard to come by, but a day before October's Prime Day, you can get the 30-ounce charcoal IceFlow at Amazon for $35 on Amazon, or 13% off. The azure Stanley 64-ouncer is 27% off, at $40.
I love the Stanley tumbler's convenience
I'm a big fan of the IceFlow tumbler because of the handle at the top, which makes carrying it on walks or when out and about easier. The built-in straw makes sipping a breeze, and unlike the more popular Quencher tumbler with the handle on the side, this one is totally leak-proof. (Though the Quencher is a solid choice, if you prefer that design.) I have the 30-ounce option, and it fits well in a cup holder and carries enough water without being too bulky. And hey, if it happens to be trendy, so be it.
A Stanley isn't going to change your life (even if it can apparently survive a car fire and keep water cold all the while), but having a good quality bottle that encourages you to drink more water could lead to healthier habits. Sure, there are plenty of water bottles that keep your ice water refreshingly cold, but out of all the drinkware cluttering my cabinets, this is the one I reach for the most -- whether I'm staying hydrated at home or heading out. It checks all the boxes when it comes to size, quality and functionality.
While the price may not be the most appealing, keep an eye out for discounts on sites like Amazon and Target to make it more affordable. That way, your cash -- like the icy water in your Stanley -- will last longer.
For more, here are our favorite travel coffee mugs.