"Among all of the summer and back-to-school necessities that made my family’s shopping list this year, sturdy lunch boxes and leakproof water bottles were at the top. At the end of the day, there is nothing more frustrating than opening up my children’s backpacks from camp or school to discover books, artwork, and forms soaked with water. Last year, I would have to put gallon-sized Ziploc bags inside their backpacks where they could store their documents so they wouldn’t get wet. Looking back, it was too much extra work for me and completely unnecessary—I just need to find leakproof water bottles that actually work!
Between school, camp, and other activities, my children need a dependable water bottle to keep them hydrated throughout the day. But there is so much more that goes into finding a good water bottle besides being leakproof. My son likes to put ice in his water, so he needs an insulated bottle that keeps water extra cold. My daughter likes to use straws, so she wants a flexible spout to drink out of. And, of course, both kids get excited by a water bottle design they love.
We know kids’ schedules are ever-changing, but what remains true is that they’re busy. As parents, when we buy things for our kids, we want them to last. For something like a quality water bottle, we have expectations. Durability is a must, leakproof has to be the standard, and a color that ensures our kiddos will actually use it is a priority.
That’s why we went on the hunt for the best kids water bottles. Here we’ve rounded up 12 options that will keep your children’s things from getting soggy and will stand up to the demands of their busy schedules—shop the list below!
The Best Water Bottles for Kids
An editor and reader-favorite water bottle brand, Owala products feature a leakproof lid that flips open with the push of a button to expose an easy-to-drink-from straw.
7 color combos available
For fans of the viral Stanley cup, grab this 20 oz insulated tumbler for your little one that includes a flip-top straw and easy-to-carry handle. Plus, beverages stay cold for 10 hours (and iced for 30) and the bottle is dishwasher safe and can fit in most car cup holders.
many colors available
YETI is a tried-and-true brand loved by many and this kids water bottle is no exception. The design has an easy-to-carry handle and works for both cold and hot beverages.
many colors available
Leak-proof, no BPA, colorful, and a chewy straw—what more could you want in a kids water bottle?
many colors and patterns available
A favorite brand in the water bottle space, this kid-sized Hydro Flask is super durable and includes a helpful straw lid and grippy rubber base.
4 color combos available
Recently re-designed to include a leak-proof straw and easy-to-clean interior, grab a two-pack of these Contigo water bottles so your kid will always have a clean water bottle at the ready.
many colors and patterns available
This water bottle is the perfect size for any lunchbox. Plus, it’s built with a wide, drip-free opening for ice cube insertion.
7 colors available
The FUNtainer water bottle can keep your drink ice cold for up to 12 hours. It comes with a convenient carrying handle, is dishwasher safe, and has a pop-up straw.
With three layers of vacuum-sealed stainless steel insulation, S’well’s technology keeps drinks cold for 24 hours and hot for 12. Plus, this bottle’s small 9oz design is perfect for little hands and backpacks.
3 colors available
Lightweight yet reliable, this 12oz bottle is great for little ones who just need something simple. Note, though, that reviewers say it does leak a little if kids don’t push the top all the way down.
7 colors and patterns available
This simple 12oz bottle is insulated and built to last for the whole year.
many colors and patterns available
This insulated water bottle features a convenient handle and a straw lid for easy drinking. Plus, the removable protective bumper adds durability.
Note: This water bottle’s straw has to be fully closed not to leak, so practice with kids ahead of time.
many colors available
Gabriela Garcia, Contributing Writer
Gabriela is a Chicago-based writer, mom-of-two, and founder of The Beauty Edit. She loves to cook food that her children don’t eat and pretends to be a bibliophile when in reality she’s a Bravo TV and chip addict.
Brett Nicole Hayden, Assistant Editor
As the Assistant Editor, Brett works with the editors of The Everymom on the content creation process by updating stories, sourcing images and graphics, and pitching and contributing her own articles. Her favorite topics to write about are culture, relationships, and living. She’s also The Everymom’s resident baby names and family movies expert!