The Hydro Flask stainless steel water bottle has become an icon of outdoor adventures and an everyday essential for many. Its double wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks cold for 24 hours or hot for 12 hours. But is it safe to microwave your Hydro Flask to reheat drinks? Let’s take a closer look.
Here’s a quick answer: No, Hydro Flask bottles should never be microwaved. The stainless steel construction will reflect microwave radiation instead of heating up. This can lead to sparks, melting, and damage to the bottle and microwave. To safely reheat drinks stored in a Hydro Flask, pour them into a microwave-safe container before microwaving, then transfer back to the Hydro Flask once cooled. Metal and microwaves don’t mix well!
What is Hydro Flask?
Hydro Flask is a popular brand of insulated stainless steel bottles and tumblers, owned by Helen of Troy Limited. They became widely popular in 2019, especially among millennials and Gen Z.
Hydro Flask bottles are manufactured in China by EcoWay Houseware Ltd. They produce stainless steel drinkware under their own EcoWay brand, as well as for companies like Hydro Flask.
The brand is beloved for its stylish, durable construction and ability to keep drinks icy cold or piping hot for hours. But its metal build makes it unsuitable for microwaving.
Why You Should Not Microwave a Hydro Flask
Hydro Flask clearly states that their bottles should never be microwaved.
The main reason is that metal and microwaves don’t mix. The stainless steel body will reflect microwave radiation instead of absorbing it to heat food or drinks.
This can lead to:
- Sparks and arcing – electricity jumps between metal surfaces, damaging the bottle and microwave.
- Melting or warping – the exterior coating may melt or warp under intense heat.
According to Hydro Flask:
“We definitely do not recommend microwaving any of our products! Our products are made from 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, and metal and microwaves don’t play so nicely together.”
Multiple Twitter users and Amazon reviews confirm what happens when you microwave a Hydro Flask. The results are never good:
| Result | What Happened |
|---|---|
| Sparks flying | “So I decided to warm up my coffee in my HydroFlask this morning. That was clearly a mistake LOL” |
| Melted exterior | “PSA: Don’t microwave your HydroFlasks. I melted mine within seconds.” |
| Ruined bottle | “Thought I could warm up my cocoa in the HydroFlask. Now it’s warped and gross.” |
| Damaged microwave | “Put my HydroFlask in the microwave for just 30 seconds. Now the inside is black and smells burnt.” |
Clearly, microwaving your Hydro Flask is never a wise idea. You risk destroying an expensive bottle and damaging your microwave in the process.
Safest Way to Reheat Drinks
Instead of microwaving your Hydro Flask directly, use these safe methods:
- Pour into a microwave-safe mug or bowl – Glass, ceramic and microwave-safe plastic containers won’t spark or melt.
- Use an electric kettle – Quickly heats water to re-hydrate instant drinks or soups.
- Warm on the stovetop – Gently reheat in a pan or pot on low heat.
Once reheated, you can safely pour your drink back into the Hydro Flask to enjoy for hours. The roundabout way is far better than ruining your bottle!
Microwave-Safe Alternatives
Since metal Hydro Flasks can’t be microwaved, opt for microwave-safe plastic bottles or thermoses when you need to reheat drinks regularly.
Popular options include:
- Contigo Plastic Water Bottles
- CamelBak Eddy+ BPA-Free Water Bottle
- Thermoflask Double Wall Insulated Sports Bottle
- Simple Modern Summit Water Bottle
Be sure to check that the product is labeled microwave-safe before purchasing.
Why is Hydro Flask So Popular?
Despite its microwave limitations, Hydro Flask remains hugely popular worldwide. Here’s why:
- Double wall vacuum insulation – Keeps cold drinks chilled for 24 hours, hot drinks steaming for 12 hours.
- 18/8 food-grade stainless steel – Durable, BPA-free and built to last.
- TempShield technology – Insulating layer minimizes condensation and heat transfer.
- Trendy colors and designs – Express yourself with unique color combos and stickers.
- Leakproof lid – Secure flip top prevents messy spills.
- Fits car cup holders – Ideal size for taking everywhere.
For a stylish, high-performance water bottle, Hydro Flask fits the bill. Just don’t pop it in the microwave!
FAQ
Why can’t you microwave a Hydro Flask?
The stainless steel construction means it will reflect microwave radiation rather than heat up. This can damage the bottle and microwave.
What happens if you microwave a Hydro Flask?
At best, nothing happens. At worst, it causes arcing and sparks, melts the exterior, warps the bottle, damages the microwave, and ruins the drink.
How do you heat up a drink in a Hydro Flask?
Pour the drink into a microwave-safe container to heat, then transfer back to the Hydro Flask once cooled sufficiently. You can also use an electric kettle or stovetop.
Can you put a Hydro Flask in the dishwasher?
Yes, Hydro Flask bottles are top-rack dishwasher safe. However, hand washing is recommended to maintain the finish. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.
What can you not do with a Hydro Flask?
- Microwave it
- Put through dishwasher cleaning cycles
- Use abrasive scrubbers or cleaners
What happens if a metal water bottle is microwaved?
Similar dangers as a Hydro Flask – arcing, sparks, damage, melting, and risks oftoxic fumes or food contamination. Never microwave a metal water bottle.
The Bottom Line
Hydro Flask’s stainless steel build makes it perfect for keeping drinks hot or cold for hours. But like all metal bottles, it should never be microwaved.
Reheating your drinks in a microwave-safe container first is the safest option. This prevents any damage to your expensive Hydro Flask or the microwave itself.
With proper care, your Hydro Flask can last for years as your go-to water bottle. Just keep it out of the microwave for best results!
