HydroJug is helping reduce single-use plastic waste

One of the reasons HydroJug was founded was to reduce the use of single-use plastics. Back in 2016, our CEO noticed a lot of people carrying around milk jugs full of water so they could drink a gallon a day. However, what you may not know is that milk jugs are not supposed to be used more than once. Hayden saw the problem with this and created HydroJug to solve it.

Finding ways to help the environment has always been important to a lot of people – and it’s only becoming more relevant as plastic pollution continues to grow worldwide.

So let’s talk about why single-use plastics are a big deal, and what simple changes can actually make a difference.

Why single-use plastic bottles are a problem

1) They’re designed to be thrown away

Single-use plastic bottles are made for convenience – but the downside is obvious: one bottle can be used in minutes and then exist in the environment for a very long time.

Even when people try to do the right thing, recycling systems have real limitations. In the U.S., the EPA estimates that the recycling rate for PET bottles and jars was about 29.1% (2018 data). For a closer look at the downstream impact, read the dangers of single-use plastics.

2) Recycling isn’t “a fix-all”

Recycling helps – but it’s not a magic solution. Plastics are difficult and expensive to collect, sort, and process, and a lot of plastic still ends up landfilled or burned.

That’s one reason global organizations emphasize that reducing single-use plastics and expanding reuse systems are critical steps alongside recycling.

3) Plastic can break down into microplastics

Over time, plastic waste can fragment into tiny pieces often called microplastics. These particles have been found across the environment – including in drinking water – and the World Health Organization has noted that more research is needed to fully understand the health risks, while also calling for reducing plastic pollution overall.

4) Plastic pollution affects ecosystems

Plastic pollution impacts waterways, oceans, and wildlife. UNEP highlights plastic pollution as a major global challenge and supports efforts to reduce plastic leakage into the environment.

What you can do (that actually helps)

You don’t need to be perfect – small changes add up.

• Switch to a reusable bottle (and actually keep it with you)
• Refill from home, work, and water stations when possible
• Recycle correctly when you do use plastic (caps or lids and local rules vary)
• Don’t “collect” single-use bottles in your car or bag – they’re easy to forget and become waste fast

If you want a deeper look at why reusables matter long-term, this guide on the importance of reusable water bottles breaks it down.

How HydroJug helps reduce single-use plastics

All HydroJug bottles are BPA-free, which means that no harmful chemicals will be in your water no matter how many times you use your water bottle. Unlike most jugs, the Sport and Pro Jugs are made of #2 HDPE and #5 PP plastic which are BPA-free and made to be reused over time. The Stainless Steel HydroJug is made from 18/8 grade stainless steel, which is rust-resistant so you can use it for years!

We designed our reusable bottles to be way more durable than any single-use plastic water bottle could ever be. If you want a lightweight, everyday option that’s easy to grab and go, our BPA-free Squeeze bottles are built for daily use. And if you want a larger bottle that helps you refill less and stay consistent, the Pro Jug makes it easier to keep water with you all day – whether you’re at work, at the gym, or running around town.

On top of it all, you can also save tons of money. Buying a single bottle of water every day could cost you hundreds of dollars a year. The HydroJug is a one-time purchase that will pay itself back within weeks.

Make sure you check out our BPA-free Pro Jug, Squeeze, and Stainless Steel options – there is a color and design for everyone. The environmental crisis may seem like an impossible problem to solve, but buying reusable water bottles like HydroJug is one way to start making a difference.

If you’re comparing materials, this breakdown of stainless steel vs. plastic water bottles can help you decide.