This Is Why You Should Never Leave a Water Bottle in Your Car
Leaving a plastic water bottle in your car may seem harmless, but experts warn that it can pose unexpected health and safety risks—especially during warm weather. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Chemicals Can Leach Into the Water
Most disposable plastic water bottles are made from PET plastic. When exposed to heat, such as inside a parked car, the plastic can begin to break down and release chemicals into the water.
Doctors and scientists explain that prolonged heat exposure may cause substances like antimony and other compounds to leach into the water, potentially affecting your health if consumed regularly.
2. Heat Encourages Bacterial Growth
A warm car creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. If you drink from the bottle and then leave it in the car, bacteria from your mouth can multiply rapidly in the warm water.
This can increase the risk of stomach discomfort or illness, especially if the bottle is reused over several days.
3. Fire Risk: Rare but Real
Safety experts have documented rare cases where a clear plastic water bottle left in direct sunlight acted like a magnifying glass, focusing sunlight onto car upholstery. In extreme situations, this has led to scorch marks or even small fires.
While uncommon, the risk increases when sunlight passes directly through the bottle for extended periods.
4. The Water May Taste and Smell Different
Heat can alter the taste and smell of bottled water. If your water suddenly tastes “plastic-like,” doctors recommend not drinking it, as this may indicate chemical changes.
5. Reusable Bottles Aren’t Always Safe Either
