5 of the best vacuum flasks for use with babies 2024
THREE WAYS A THERMOS FLASK IS USEFUL WITH A BABY
A vacuum flask can be very handy when you have a baby. Here are three ways it can be used.
One - baby changing
A flask enables you to always have warm water to hand for cleaning your baby with cotton wool during nappy changes. Many baby wipes are now suitable for newborn skin but some still prefer to use plain water and cotton wool. Plus some babies hate the feeling of cold baby wipes and using warm water will make nappy changing a much nicer experience.
Two - formula feeding
They can also be used for keeping water hot for powdered formula milk. This can be especially useful during night feeds and on-the-go feeds. Just make sure the flask can keep the water at 70C, which is the temperature recommended by the NHS to kill bacteria.
To keep the water hotter for longer, make sure you fully fill the flask. You can also help to pre-warm it by filling the flask with boiling water for 3 to 10 minutes and then emptying and filling again.
Three - hot drinks for you
Breastfeeding is thirsty work and you don’t want to be trapped without a drink. A flask can provide you with a supply of hot tea.
WHICH ARE THE BEST FLASKS TO BUY?
This list has been narrowed down to the very best with thorough research and the following considered:
Consumer reviews
Best-seller lists
Recommendations from industry experts
Award-winning products
Personal experience and the products loved by other parents.
The list is updated annually. It was last updated on January 5, 2024.
If you buy through a link, we may earn a small affiliate commission. 5% of profits are donated to UK Baby Banks to help parents in need of essentials.
1. thermos thermocafe stainless steel flask
Why buy this flask?
This slim flask keep liquids hot while staying cool to the touch.
Key features
500ml
Double-wall insulation
Made from hard-wearing stainless steel.
BPA-free.
Hand wash only.
There is a screw top lid which you can pour from without removing. There is also a lid that can be used as a cup.
Weighs 310g.
Measures 24cm high with a diameter of 9cm.
What the reviews say
Good heat retention for a good price. Many happily use it to make formula although a few complain that it doesn’t keep water hot enough for long enough.
2. Esbit thermoflask
Why buy this flask?
It’s great for making up formula on the go or at night as it can keep water at above the required 70˚C for six hours. There is also a 1000ml flask which can keep it above 70˚C for 12 hours.
Key features
500ml (there are larger sizes available).
Made from stainless steel.
Features a push-button lid for one-handed use and preventing accidental spillages. There is also a cup lid. An extra cup is also included.
100% leakproof.
Weighs 360g.
Made by a German company established in 1936.
What the reviews say
Excellent heat retention. It’s slightly expensive but you get what you pay for.
3. Flintronic flask
Why buy this flask?
This flask has a waterproof LED temperature display so you know the water is not too hot for cleaning your baby or the right temperature for making formula.
Key features:
It can keep water above 70˚C for up to six hours.
500ml
The inner wall is made from food-grade stainless steel.
BPA-free.
Non-slip base.
Available in a variety of colours.
Measures 23 x 6.5cm
Hand wash only.
The lithium battery should last at least two years.
What the reviews say
One downside is that the battery cannot be replaced so once it has run out the flask will not longer have the temperature display feature.
Those using it for formula feeds find the temperature display very useful but there is some disparity over how long it can keep water at 70˚C. Some believe it does an excellent job but others are disappointed.
4. Thermos Stainless King Flask 1.2L
Why buy this flask?
This classic best-seller doesn’t make any specific claims about the temperature but say it can keep water hot for 24 hours.
Key features
Large 1.2L size
Made from stainless steel.
Stays cool to the touch.
The twist and pour stopper does not need to be removed for pouring.
Comes with a cup lid.
There is a foldaway handle.
Weighs 670g
Measures L9.4 x W10.5 x H31cm
Hand wash only
Comes with a five year guarantee.
Available in a variety of colours.
What the reviews say
Great heat retention. There are many positive reviews. A few complain that the handle is a bit rattly.
5. Stanley Classic Legendary Bottle 1L
Why buy this flask?
Stanley make some of the best and most reliable flasks. They have excellent heat retention and while they don’t make any specific claims they do say it can keep water hot for 24 hours.
Key features
Large one-litre size.
Made from food-grade stainless steel
Leakproof
Hand wash only
Double wall vacuum insulation
The lid doubles up as a cup.
Carry handle on the side.
Very durable and has a lifetime warranty
Weighs 807g
Measures H117 x W94 x L358mm
What the reviews say
It is on the expensive side but you get what you pay for as it really does keep water hot for an impressively long time.
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MORE OF THE BEST:
Changing tables • changing bags • nappy bins • reusable nappies • changing mats • cotton wool • prams • baby carriers • car seats
Some baby products are useful for longer than others. If you’re in two minds about whether to buy something, it can be worth considering its lifespan. The longer you use it, the better the cost per use and the more it will justify its place in your home. Here are thirteen baby products that are still in active service with my now five-year-old.