Eastman Proves Tritan Sports Bottles Are Dishwasher‑Safe, While Supporting COVID‑19 Relief

Eastman Chemical’s latest consumer study shows that most U.S. consumers wash reusable sports bottles by hand and air‑dry them, a practice that may leave contaminants behind. According to Brad Moncla, marketing segment manager for durables, 60% of users prefer handwashing and air‑drying, even though dishwashers can more effectively remove germs.

Sports bottle brands such as Camelbak, Nalgene and YETI use Eastman’s Tritan™ in their products. Tritan is a durable, dishwasher‑friendly plastic that retains color and clarity even after repeated cycles, according to the manufacturer.

Moncla explained that many consumers choose handwashing because they are not fully aware of the material’s properties. “People may have had a bad experience with a cheaper plastic,” he said. “Tritan is differentiated and can be dish‑washed regularly for years.” He added, “Consumers might not realize how much better dishwashers are than handwashing.”

Durables vs. Single‑Use Plastics

The discussion extended to the broader shift from single‑use to durable plastics. Focus‑group research indicates that consumers are increasingly aware that a reusable bottle can be used for years—some even beyond a decade—rather than discarding it after a single use.

In light of the COVID‑19 pandemic, Moncla emphasized the importance of reusable bottles. “Most consumers have a Tritan water bottle at home that they can use instead of buying bottled water,” he said. “This not only saves money but also protects the environment.” He noted that the expansion of bottle‑filling stations in public spaces has further encouraged the transition to reusable products.

Eastman is investing heavily in durable products to reduce reliance on single‑use plastics, according to Moncla. He highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability through continued product innovation and consumer education.

Eastman’s COVID‑19 Response

Eastman has made several significant contributions to frontline health care workers during the pandemic, including:

• 10,000 face shields for hospitals in Massachusetts, in partnership with SMC Ltd.;
• Copolyester resins donated to PRP Creation, supporting the production of 475,000 hand‑sanitizer bottles for French health organizations;
• Window film supplied to Harlow College, enabling the creation of 300 additional face shields for U.K. hospital staff;
• Collaboration with the Tennessee Higher Education Commission and universities to produce 10,000 face shields;
• Copolyester donations to Brazilian companies for 20,000 face shields destined for hospitals;
• Critical PPE—including 180 N95 masks and 4,400 nitrile gloves—donated to first responders in Massachusetts.

Additionally, Eastman converted a pilot plant at its largest U.S. manufacturing site to produce hand sanitizer for local schools and emergency responders.