Keeping coffee hot and water cold is useful whether you are out camping, at home, or out running errands. Stanley Vacuum Bottles are fantastic at doing exactly that. They keep your beverages at your desired temperature for long periods of time!
Keep reading my Stanley Thermos Review to learn more about the company, which products I love and recommend, and how to save 15% OFF your purchase with my coupon.
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Stanley Origins
If you have been enjoying your beverages through thermoses and flasks, you have William Stanley Jr to thank. He was an American physicist and inventor born in Brooklyn. Aside from many other inventions and patents, in 1913 he patented an all-steel vacuum bottle and then formed the Stanley Bottle Company.
As you can tell, the company has been around for a long time. If you ask your grandparents about the brand, it's likely that they've purchased some Stanley products in their lifetime. Maybe your grandpa even took one of their thermoses on a fishing trip back in the days.
What William Stanley Jr created wasn’t the vacuum bottles we know today, but through the decades his concept evolved, giving birth to the modern Stanley bottles and thermoses. The company has expanded their lineup, making reliable food & beverage containers and other nifty items for different outdoor activities or home use.
The Stanley Products I Have
Right now, I have six Stanley products that I and my family have enjoyed using:
- the Stanley Classic Vacuum Bottle
- the Classic Hot French Press
- the Classic Legendary Camp Mug
- the Go Tumbler with Ceramivac
- the Adventure Stainless Vacuum Bottle
- and Vacuum Bottle with Ceramivac
It’s a lot so I’ll be breaking down my thoughts and experiences with each one below:
Stanley Classic Legendary Bottle (1.5 Qt)
Details:
- 40 Hours Hot
- 36 Hours Cold
- 6 Days Iced
- 18/8 stainless steel, BPA-free
- Double-wall vacuum insulation
- Leakproof + packable
- Insulated lid doubles as cup
- Dishwasher safe
Can you imagine keeping your coffee hot for a full day - nevermind 40 hours straight? This is one of my favorites because it holds a good amount of liquid (1.5 qt to be exact), whether it is water for the entire family or hot coffee for myself and my husband. While I haven't tried to let hot liquid sit in it for 40 hours, I have always had piping hot coffee during our trips with this flask thermos.
I love the vintage look too! I have it in the classic Stanley Hammer Green colour. Other colour options are Matte Black and Nightfall (blue). I really appreciate the style of the thermos and its durability. The Stanley Classic Legendary Bottle has never leaked which is a big plus as I have had other thermoses in the past that have spilled liquid all over bags and car trunks.
Just a small note though, this is not a thermos that you want to directly drink off of, especially when there’s hot coffee inside. If you want to drink straight from the thermos, then you’ll need something smaller and shorter, like the Go Bottle with Ceramivac which holds 24oz. So, as a side note, always double check if any Stanley bottle or canister you’ll be getting is the right size for your needs and usage.
Stanley Classic Stay Hot French Press (48oz)
Details:
- 4 Hours Hot
- 9 Hours Cold
- 24 Hours Iced
- 18/8 stainless steel, BPA-free
- Double-wall vacuum insulation
- Easy pour ergonomic handle
- Easy clean filter, dishwasher safe
- Integrated steel coffee press
Let’s admit that most French Presses have a feminine feel to them. If you're looking for a French Press that looks more robust and masculine, then this is it. My husband loves the design and colour. Also, most French Presses are made from glass, which tends to break after a year or two of use. And glass isn't great at keeping liquid hot for long.
This French Press can be used with hot and cold liquids. It is perfect for making delicious coffee while on campsite without electricity. Like this Campfire Popcorn Popper. But we have also fully embraced it for home use. We love how durable it is and that we can enjoy hot coffee out on our deck all morning long without the need for transferring the coffee to another insulated container.
It is also great for making cold brew coffee or steeping loose leaf tea. It comes in only the classic Hammertone Green (which I actually love). It's not too heavy even though it looks a bit bulky, and - this is the best part - it so much better to bring on a trip than a French Press that’s made of glass.
The entire container holds 48 oz or 1.4 liters. Though after accounting for the space that the coffee grinds take, I find it works best to brew 1 liter at a time (still an entire pot of coffee). According to the recommended coffee to water ratio in the booklet that comes with it, I coarsely grind 56 grams of coffee beans, then pour 1 liter of hot (not boiling) water over top.
Stirring the mix helps to moisten all the coffee and extract more flavor. Then I add the top of the French Press and set a timer for 5 minutes. After that I push the plunger down to end the brewing process and the coffee is ready to enjoy hot anytime in the next 4 hours.
Watch How to Make French Press Coffee
The screen or coffee filter is fine, but I notice some coffee grinds going through sometimes. It isn’t a lot, but it doesn’t filter finer grinds completely. There is a little arrow etched into the top to indicate where the spout opening inside the lid is, but depending on the light it can be hard to see.
Stanley Classic Legendary Camp Mug (12oz)
Details:
- 1.5 Hours Hot
- 3 Hours Cold
- 15 Hours Iced
- 12 OZ / .35 L
- 18/8 stainless steel, BPA-free
- Double-wall vacuum insulation
- Tritan™ drink-through lid
- Dishwasher safe
I already have a Stanley Thermos and French Press, so for us to enjoy our coffee fully during our busy mornings, we definitely needed mugs also. My husband and I both drink our morning coffee outside on the deck - usually while checking emails and getting the workday started - so he needed something that would keep his coffee hot longer. He claimed this Camp Mug for himself almost immediately and absolutely loves it. The stainless steel construction and double-wall vacuum insulation keeps his drinks hot throughout the day.
This Stanley mug can hold 12 oz. of hot or cold liquid. It’s just the right size for his morning coffee. It comes with a press-fit Tritan™ lid. It is more of a splash guard which doesn't close fully, but it helps to keep the contents hot longer. However you can also just remove it and use the mug open.
My husband doesn't really drink his coffee while driving, but the one time he tried we realized that the mug doesn't fit in any of our car's mug holders. It is definitely designed with stationary use in mind.
The shorter, wider design makes it perfect for use with our espresso machine. It fits perfectly underneath it to pull his favorite Americano. Aside from the Hammertone Green that we have, the mug also comes in Matte Black, Wine Red, and Nightfall (blue).
Go Bottle with Ceramivac (24oz)
Details:
- 9 Hours Hot
- 14 Hours Cold
- 2 Days Iced
- Ceramivac™ finished 18/8 stainless steel
- Double-wall vacuum insulation, BPA-free
- Leakproof + packable
- Splash guard included
- Dishwasher safe
- Non-skid silicone foot pad
- Car cup compatible
There are some that don’t really like to use steel thermoses because their taste buds are so sensitive that they get a hint of steely taste every time they drink their coffee or water. The Go Bottle with Ceramivac is a great alternative because this bottle has a smooth-fired ceramic wall.
Whatever you choose to put inside will still be kept hot or cold without the use of a stainless steel wall. It is a bit on the heavy side, but this is, for me, the best thermos to take with me when I drive as it's car cup holder compatible and the splash guard makes it easy to take small sips without getting water all over yourself (even on bumpy roads).
This has become my daily water bottle. I like the chick look and how easy it is to clean. Heat retention isn’t as long as other bottles – just 9 hours. But for daily use and short trips, it’s perfect.
If you want to carry this with you, no problem. The top of the Go Bottle has a steel ring that you can grip on. If there is a need for you to take this bottle on a hike, you can use the ring to hook the bottle onto your backpack.
I have the Asphalt (dark gray) and it comes in 6 more colour options: Nightfall (blue), Granite (light gray), Plant (moss green), Wine Red, Foundry Black, and Hammertone Green.
Adventure Stainless Steel Vacuum Bottle (1.1 Qt)
Details:
- 24 Hours Hot
- 24 Hours Cold
- 5 Days Iced
- 18/8 Stainless steel, BPA-free
- Double Wall Vacuum Insulation
- Leakproof + packable
- Insulated lid doubles as cup
The Adventure Stainless Steel Vacuum Bottle by Stanley is the most straightforward, portable, thermos you can ever have. It’s so simple, all you have to do is fill it up, place it inside your bag, and go on your journey. I know I have different Stanley thermoses already, but this one is my favorite for cold drinks. 1.1 Qt is just right for my entire family whether we are going to the beach, just a short hike, or a long drive.
It fits just right in my backpack or in my bag. It’s not too big and not too heavy so we enjoy taking it along. With this thermos on board, we have the Stanley Legendary Bottle for our coffee, and then this vacuum bottle for cold drinks. Just like other Stanley thermoses I mentioned on this list, the Adventure Bottle’s cap can also double as a cup, so we don’t have to worry about getting extra camp mugs.
Unfortunately this vacuum bottle doesn’t have a handle. If you’re going to take it along with you, it has to sit inside your bag or backpack. It comes in only this Polar (white) colour which is a great modern chic contrast to the legendary classic line of Stanley products!
Stanley Go Tumbler with Ceramivac (16oz)
Details:
- 4 Hours Hot
- 7 Hours Cold
- 30 Hours Iced
- Ceramivac™ finished 18/8 stainless steel
- Double-wall vacuum insulation, BPA-free
- Tritan™ splash-proof lid
- Car cup compatible
- Dishwasher safe
- Non-skid base
- 7 colour options
Just like my husband I like to enjoy having my coffee outside on our deck but I am also out about running errands several mornings a week, when I am having my first coffee in the car. I have been using a travel tumbler for a long time already, but my old one had a plastic screw on lid that always leaked and the thought of drinking hot liquids from plastic makes me uncomfortable. So this Stanley Go Tumbler with Ceramivac is the perfect fit for me.
I love that I am actually drinking from the ceramic finish. There is no stainless steel taste to my coffee, and the press-in lid is more of a splash guards. My lips aren't actually touching it. Unlike the camp mug though, this lid actually has a sliding closure making it perfect for car travel. Also, the ceramic tumbler perfectly fits into all of our cup holders.
I also like to keep this tumble by my side for hot and cold beverage all day long. I start with hot coffee in the morning, I move to iced coffee in the afternoon, and then to hot tea at night time. It’s sits perfectly on my desk and night stand, and I don’t have to worry about slipping because the tumbler has a non-skid base underneath.
The colour of my tumbler is called Wine Red and I love the simple elegance. Aside from that there are 6 more colour choices just like the Ceramivac GO Bottle.
What other things do I need to know about?
Lifetime Warranty
Stanley offers a lifetime warranty. Yep, you read that right – a lifetime warranty. To me that speaks volumes! They’re so confident in their statement “Built for Life” that they are offering this kind of warranty for all of their products.
On their website, if you go to the specific product pages, you’re going to see this: “Our products do what we say they do or we replace them. We guarantee it.” Any consumer will be more than happy to read this line on a product’s website, and to me, it means that you can buy with confidence because you will not regret your purchase.
Claims can be made easily through the official website. Just scroll down at the very bottom to “Replacement Parts” and “Warranty Claim”. On the forms, it shows you where on your product you can get all the information needed to proceed with your claim.
Cleaning
Always double check the bottom of your Stanley thermos to see if it is dishwasher safe. If it isn’t then cleaning the bottle by hand will do, using water, a mild detergent, and a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse your bottle and then wipe it dry with a clean towel.
Based on the website, you have to do deep cleaning from time to time. Pour a solution of baking soda and warm water into your Stanley thermos or bottle and then let it soak for one hour. Afterwards, you can pour out the mixture, rinse the bottle, and then clean with a mild detergent.
Not for Heating
Because most Stanley products contain steel, they are not ideal to be used in a microwave. It is also not ideal for you to place any of the thermoses (or the French Press) on direct heat to warm up your coffee. The products are not designed for that. The insulated bottles also should not be placed on heated surfaces.
Not for Freezing
Stanley thermoses and containers are not for freezing either. The brand doesn’t recommend placing your thermos with liquid in it inside the freezer because the liquid could expand, and it could damage your product, or affect its ability to hold the temperature of liquids you put in it.
Not for Milk
Although milk is a liquid, the company specifies that it is not ideal to keep it inside a bottle or thermos for long periods of time because milk (and other dairy products, for that matter), have increased bacterial growth at specific temperatures and spoil.
Where to Purchase and Price
So, where can you get your very own Stanley thermos, bottle, mug or tumbler? You can try Amazon. However, I highly recommend you go through the official website to ensure you get quality, original products and just in case you need help with something or you need to make a claim. Additionally, you can use my code Regina15 to save 15% OFF any product from the Stanley webstore.
Here’s a breakdown of the prices (before discount):
- Classic Legendary Bottle is $40
- French Press is $65
- Classic Camp Mug $20
- GO Bottle with Ceramivac $35
- Adventure Stainless Steel Bottle $30
- GO Tumbler with Ceramivac $30
You may be thinking, that they are a bit on the pricey side when you compare them to regular items that are similar. For example, you can absolutely get a tumbler that’s less than $30 or a mug that’s cheaper than $20. But, if you take into account their durability and their usefulness on trips, the price for each item is pretty reasonable. There’s also the lifetime warranty which, in my opinion, no one can beat.
Stanley Thermos Review: Overall Experience
In summary, here are aspects of Stanley products that really stand out to me:
- Handy and useful for outdoor adventures and home use alike
- Amazing cold and heat retention
- Portable
- Dishwasher safe
- Vintage & modern designs
- Dedicated to sustainability
- Durable
- Lifetime Warranty
I’m very happy with all of my 6 products. Aesthetically, I wish that they had some more bright colour options. Most of the colors are dark and manly, ideal for camping and other outdoor activities, but I wish Stanley would make some more feminine or kid-appealing colours as well.
For me, the price for each item is reasonable given that Stanley has a lifetime warranty. The most expensive item I have, for example, is the French Press which is about $65. I admit that it is way more than what you would normally pay for a regular French Press, but it is safer and more convenient to take on trips and lasts much longer than glass presses.
Aside from beverage containers, Stanley also makes items for food storage (the Classic Lunchbox looks like it time traveled straight from the 70s), liquor, beer, and cooking. For the Stanley cooking items, of course, they are focused on outdoor cooking, so you can find a lot of camp gear essentials. There’s so much to check out, and I am glad to see that their products aren’t just limited to keeping hot water, coffee, and cold liquids.
Really, one of the main things I like is the products' cold and heat retention. I and my family can enjoy whatever cold or hot drink we're having while on a road trip and at home.
When it comes to durability, as the brand said, they are built to last so I am expecting them to last for a good number of years. While I have only had them for a little while, they do feel sturdy. And, with all the great reviews I’ve read about Stanley products, I think these guys will be with me and my family for a while.
Honestly, I cannot rave enough about the Stanley items I and my family have tried because we do have a need for them (my husband and I especially). If you are also looking for products that make your work commute or road trips a little bit better, keep your coffee hotter longer, and save you from having coffee-stained shirts, then I know you will love your Stanley products as much as we do.
Commonly Asked Questions
William Stanley Jr. was an American physicist and inventor who patented an all-steel vacuum bottle in 1913. He formed the Stanley Bottle Company, which eventually led to the evolution of modern Stanley Vacuum Bottles.
Stanley offers a lifetime warranty for all their products. This means that if their products don't perform as promised, they will be replaced.
Most Stanley thermoses are dishwasher safe, but always double-check the bottom of your bottle for specific instructions. If it is not dishwasher safe, clean it by hand using water, a mild detergent, and a soft cloth or sponge.
For deep cleaning, you can soak the bottle in a solution of baking soda and warm water for an hour before rinsing and cleaning with mild detergent.
Stanley thermoses and containers are not suitable for heating liquids directly or freezing them. The use of direct heat or freezing can damage the product or affect its ability to maintain the desired temperature.
Stanley recommends not keeping milk or dairy products in their bottles for extended periods due to increased bacterial growth at specific temperatures that can lead to spoilage.
Stanley Vacuum Bottles are available for purchase on their official website and through retailers like Amazon. The prices range depending on the product, with the Classic Legendary Bottle priced at around $40, the French Press at around $65, and the Go Bottle with Ceramivac at around $35.
Yes, most Stanley cups and bottles are dishwasher safe. However, it's always a good idea to double-check the bottom of your specific Stanley product for any unique cleaning instructions.
Dating a Stanley thermos involves examining its features, design, and sometimes, the presence of specific logos or markings. Stanley thermoses have evolved over the years, so older models may have distinct characteristics compared to new arrivals. You can also refer to historical records and catalog information provided by Stanley to estimate the age of your thermos.
Vacuum insulated water bottles, like Stanley's, offer several benefits:
- Temperature Retention: They can keep beverages hot for hours and cold for extended periods, making them ideal for various activities, from camping to daily commutes.
- Durability: Vacuum bottles are typically built to withstand rugged outdoor use, and many come with a lifetime warranty.
- Leakproof: Many vacuum bottles are designed to be leakproof and packable, preventing spills and messes.
- Eco-Friendly: They reduce the need for single-use plastic bottles, contributing to environmental sustainability.
The price of Stanley vacuum bottles varies depending on the specific model and features. As mentioned, the Classic Legendary Bottle is around $40, the French Press is approximately $65, and the Go Bottle with Ceramivac is about $35.
Prices may also vary based on promotions, discounts, and the retailer where you purchase them.
The Stanley water bottle, or Stanley Vacuum Bottle, has its origins in the early 20th century when American physicist and inventor William Stanley Jr. patented an all-steel vacuum bottle in 1913. This invention led to the formation of the Stanley Bottle Company.
Over the decades, Stanley has evolved its product lineup to include a range of reliable food and beverage containers designed for outdoor activities and home use. The brand's commitment to quality, durability, and temperature retention has stood the test of time and has made Stanley a trusted name in the world of vacuum bottles and thermoses.
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Disclaimer: Stanley sent me these items to try out and review. All opinions are my own. The links in this post are affiliate links, meaning that I might earn a small commission should you decide to order through them. This - however - does not influence my opinions in this Stanley review.
Sergio
I have the 1.1 quart classic bottle and I love it but I can't seem to pour from it without dribbling down the side. I've tried pouring with the cap only slightly unscrewed and with it loose with the same results. Any suggestions?
Regina | Leelalicious
Hi Sergio, I had to go check it out with my classic bottle. Though mine is the 1.5 qt size. And I don't seem to have much of a dribbling problem. Either completely open or with loosened cap. At most I get a couple of drops at the very top, but nothing bothersome. I am wondering if he 1.1 qt design may be somehow different?