Stainless steel tumblers are one of the most common promotional items due to their durability, sustainability, and versatile logo customization options, making them widely popular.
When deciding to import custom Stainless steel tumblers from China, there are several factors you should consider to help you better assess costs and select high-quality suppliers. These factors include material, production process, logo customization method, MOQ, and certification.
Material
The material of Stainless steel tumblers can be divided into two parts: the plastic part of the lid and the stainless steel part of the body.
Food grade PP (polypropylene) plastic is a plastic commonly used in food containers and packaging. It is known for its durability, heat, and chemical resistance, and non-toxic properties. Not only is it a microwaveable plastic, but it does not contain harmful chemicals such as BPA (bisphenol A) or phthalates. It is the ideal material for making cup lids.
The type of stainless steel used to make stainless steel tumblers has a major impact on their durability and quality. Also, it’s the core cost of stainless steel tumblers.
But the first point that needs special emphasis is that stainless steel tumblers are not absolutely rust-free, but relatively rust-free under certain conditions. If the consumer often used it under conditions that exceed its corrosion resistance, there is no doubt that rust is only a matter of time.
The stainless steel used to make tumblers is generally divided into 2 types, 304 stainless steel, and 316 stainless steel. 304 stainless steel is the most common type of stainless steel used to make tumblers due to its good corrosion resistance, high strength, and high-cost performance. 316 stainless steel has superior corrosion resistance and strength and is suitable for extreme weather or environment, so the material cost will be higher.
Sometimes it is not uncommon for the inner and outer layers of stainless steel tumblers to use different grades of stainless steel, such as inner layer 304 and outer layer 201, in order to save costs.
In this case, the 201 stainless steel used for the outer layer is less resistant to corrosion than the 304 stainless steel used for the inner layer. This can cause the outer layer to corrode faster than the inner layer, leading to potential leaks or structural damage.
In addition, the use of different grades of stainless steel can affect the overall strength and durability of the water bottle. 201 stainless steel is typically not as strong and durable as 304 stainless steel, which can lead to denting, deformation, or even structural failure.
In summary, while it may be cost-effective to use different grades of stainless steel for the inner and outer layers of a water bottle, it is generally recommended that the same grade of stainless steel be used for the entire bottle to avoid subsequent quality issues that may arise. The most common is to use 304 stainless steel for both the inner and outer layers.
Production process
The manufacturing process of stainless steel tumblers can be basically divided into the following 3 types:
Seamless construction
using a single piece of stainless steel to form the entire bottle. Seamless construction provides a smooth surface and eliminates the risk of leaks, making it a popular choice for high-end stainless steel tumblers.
Welded construction
this involves the use of welding techniques to join different pieces of stainless steel together. Welded construction is a more cost-effective option and is often used for mass-produced.
Vacuum insulation
creating a vacuum between the inner and outer layers of the bottle to minimize heat transfer and provide superior insulation for hot and cold liquids.
Each manufacturing process has its own advantages and disadvantages. Seamless construction provides a high-quality finish that is less likely to leak but is also more expensive. Welded construction is more cost-effective, but may not provide the same level of quality. Vacuum insulation is an excellent option for keeping beverages at the desired temperature for extended periods of time, but can increase the cost of the stainless steel tumblers.
From a production technology and equipment standpoint, almost every Chinese manufacturer can implement any one of these three production processes. But frankly speaking, almost 60% of the purchasers choose the welded construction process.
Factory visit
A video from our factory production workshop on the stainless steel tumblers manufacturing process is attached. We hope they give you a rough idea about the process.
Logo customization method
The following are some of the most common methods which to customize the logo on stainless steel tumblers:
Laser engraving
This method uses a laser to etch the logo onto the surface of the bottle. This is a durable and precise method that leaves a permanent mark on the bottle. However, it has few options in terms of color and design options.
Screen printing
This method involves printing the logo onto decal paper or film, which is then applied to the surface of the bottle. It is suitable for full-color designs and is one of the best options if you have a high volume of orders. However, with frequent use over time, the print may become increasingly blurred.
Pad printing
This method involves the use of a silicone pad to transfer the ink to the surface of the bottle. It can accommodate detailed designs and is durable, but color options are more limited.
Embossing or dimpling
This method involves creating a raised or dimpled design on the surface of the water bottle. It adds a tactile element to the logo and is durable, but may be limited in design options.
Plus, the best area for a custom logo on stainless steel tumblers is the flat or curved surface of the bottle, usually near the center or bottom. The exact area will depend on the specific design of the water bottle and the size of the logo. As for the size of the logo, it is usually 2-4 inches in width and 1-2 inches in height.
MOQ
The minimum order quantity (MOQ) for custom stainless steel tumblers in China factories may vary depending on the size of the factory, the complexity of the customization, and even how busy the production is. However, in general, MOQ can range from 200 to 1000 pieces.
If your trial order cannot meet the MOQ, I suggest you consider the factory’s inventory. In fact, some of the factory stock designs are actually very innovative, and most importantly, not only are the prices good, but there is no minimum order quantity.
Certification
Stainless steel tumblers are required to comply with the EU Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive and the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation in the EU market. In addition, the majority of European countries require LFGB certification test reports.
For the North American market, stainless steel tumblers must comply with regulations established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and California’s Proposition 65, which requires warning labels on products containing certain chemicals known to cause cancer or reproductive harm. In addition, they may need to meet testing requirements established by organizations such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) for food safety and quality.
FAQ
Here are some common questions we have accumulated over our 17 years of exporting stainless steel tumblers. Some of these questions come from end-users, while others come from B2B buyers. We have compiled these questions in FAQ format, and we hope that they will be helpful to you.
What is the ideal size of a stainless steel tumbler?
The ideal size of a stainless steel tumbler depends on personal preference. However, popular sizes range from 12 to 30 ounces.
How long can a stainless steel tumbler keep drinks hot or cold?
It depends on several factors, including the quality of the tumbler, the temperature of the drink when it is poured in, and the external temperature. Generally, high-quality stainless steel tumblers can keep drinks hot or cold for 8 to 12 hours.
Can I use my stainless steel tumbler for carbonated drinks?
Yes, you can use your stainless steel water bottle to hold a soda and other fizzy beverages as they are leak-proof and can handle pressure without affecting the taste of the drink.
Are stainless steel tumblers safe for drinking?
Yes, stainless steel is one of the safest materials to drink from, and safe for drinking as long as they are made from food-grade stainless steel and do not contain harmful chemicals or coatings.
Are stainless steel tumblers eco-friendly?
Stainless steel tumblers are an extremely low waste due to they are reusable and reduce the need for single-use plastic bottles and cups and are also more resistant to bacteria than plastic.
How do I clean my stainless steel tumbler?
Using baking soda (two tablespoons) and white vinegar (two cups). Carefully mix the ingredients into your tumbler and let the mixture foam up and then settle for about five minutes. Once you’ve drained and rinsed the mug, scrub any remaining stains off of your mug.
Can stainless steel tumblers be put in the dishwasher?
Yes, most stainless steel tumblers are dishwasher safe because they can resist corrosion. You can separate the tumbler and lid & sealing gasket then put it into the dishwasher with other tableware to wash together as usual.
Thank you for reading, and if you are interested in purchasing high-quality and customized stainless steel tumblers, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for more information. Let us help you find the perfect tumblers for your business or promotional needs.
