Is It Safe to Drink from a Glued Plastic Water Bottle and Can You Put It in the Dishwasher?

Safety for Drinking

Using a glue gun to fix a leak in a plastic water bottle can be a temporary solution, but it raises important questions about safety and durability. Most glue guns use hot melt adhesive, which is not food-safe. This means that if the adhesive comes into contact with the water inside the bottle, it might leach harmful chemicals into your drink. Generally, it's best to avoid drinking from the bottle after using non-food-safe glue.

Dishwasher Safety

Hot melt adhesives can soften and melt when exposed to high temperatures, such as those in a dishwasher. This could cause the glue to fail, leading to another leak. For this reason, it's recommended to hand wash the bottle with warm, soapy water instead of using the dishwasher.

Recommendations

For Safety

Consider replacing the bottle with one designed for food and drink use, especially if you plan to use it regularly. This will ensure that your water is safe to consume without worrying about chemical leaching.

For Cleaning

If you still wish to use the bottle, hand washing with warm soapy water is the best option to avoid potential issues with the glue melting in the dishwasher.

Permanent Fix Solutions

For a more permanent fix, consider using a food-safe adhesive specifically designed for plastics. These adhesives are more durable and less likely to leach harmful chemicals.

Alternatively, you can use a product called J-B Weld. It's a strong, two-part epoxy that is impervious to most common household items. While the 'quick-drying' formula is available, the original formula that takes 24 hours to dry is much stronger. Clean the surface with acetone or rubbing alcohol and follow the directions on the J-B Weld tubes. This product can handle temperatures up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit, well beyond what a dishwasher can provide.

Conclusion

While the glue from a glue gun might not be immediately hazardous, it's not designed for food use and could pose risks in a dishwasher. Choosing a food-safe adhesive or using a product like J-B Weld can provide a long-lasting and safe solution. For peace of mind and optimal safety, consider replacing your water bottle after fixing it with a stronger adhesive.