I'm talking about those bottles like this one: http://www.rei.com/product/605499
. . . and other sizes that have the same flip-top closure system.

I've seen these all over various gear shops, even cottage manufacturers that sell them with alky-stoves, etc. They're everywhere.

Now, maybe I've missed something, but these don't seem to be waterproof or leak-resistant by any stretch. I have several sizes and I've been disappointed by their leakiness every time I've tried to use them for anything at all.

Are they not supposed to be leak-proof or something? Is there an easy way for me to make them that way? Maybe glue a rubber o-ring above the threads or something? I just don't know. Someone help me out, thanks.

I use the 1 oz version from REI for my alcohol hand sanitizer and Dr. Bronners soap. They've worked fine for several years, no leaks.

I agree w/u Ian. Over the years i've had more of those kind of bottles leak than anything else i've tried. Methinks horrible QA!

IMO, they're not worth the trouble it takes to seal them.

LMK what it is exactly that you need. I am quite sure that I can come up with a worthwhile suggestion.

Peace,

Richard.

I have sold many of these bottles, and have discovered that to seal properly the lid has to be screwed on tight (TIGHT). The fist time I used one I was also disappointed, but found that after making the closure good and snug I no longer had a leaking problem. I much prefer a PET bottle, even though the other is easier to squeeze. If you look on the site for Sunburst Bottle you find PET bottles with the flip top cap.

I add generic o-rings, found at most hardware stores.
It provides a water/alcohol/oil tight seal without effort.
It is held in place by the threads. No glue needed.

I usually put the cap on tight and squeeze to see if air leaks out, only about 1 in ten pass this test. If it's fairly slow then it will probably be fine with anything thicker than water. For alcohol, it may leak a bit still, i try to carry it upright. The O-ring trick i will have to try.

My husband posted this project:
http://www.traildivas.com/diy/make-your-bottles-leak-resistant.html

Works like a charm.

Hi George.

Unfortunately i've also found that when these bottles are tightened the lids crack in due time. Sometimes at once.

I hope i'm not stepping on any toes. I know that folks trying to make a living need to sell these bottles (at least what they have inventoried) but I have to call them as I see them.

Peace,

Richard.

Yes, good ole Teflon tape. I'd forgotten your post in that re.

Still not worth it IMHO.

Peace,

Richard.

I buy these locally at a TAP plastics store here in Portland (Cheaper than REI). They come with a standard black cap without the flip up spout and they sell the flip up spout cap seperate. When hiking/traveling I put the black cap on and carry the spout cap in my diddy bag and swap them out when I get to camp. No problems with leaking with the black caps. TAP has a web site if you google it.

Good info speyguy, thx.

I do have a black capped bottle lying around somewhere. IIRC, the blk cap has a pliable translucent insert which effects a nice airtight seal.

Peace,

Richard.

No problems with mine at all. I've used these bottles for alcohol fuel. When traveling, I've also filled them with toothpaste, hair gel, etc. and again without any problems -- even when flying.

Tohru reminded me that I did do the squeeze test before I bought mine.