What Are RTIC Cups Made Of in 2025?

Confused about the safety and materials in your daily drinkware? Many wonder what RTIC cups are truly made of before buying.

RTIC cups in 2025 are made from 18/8 stainless steel with BPA-free plastic lids and a ceramic-lined interior for safe, clean hydration.

More than just cups, RTIC tumblers balance durability, safety, and sustainability. Let's explore what they're made of and why it matters.

What's the Main Material in RTIC Cups and Why Is It Chosen?

You're holding your tumbler every day—but what exactly is it made from, and is it safe?

RTIC tumblers are made from 18/8 food-grade stainless steel¹, also known as SUS304, chosen for its rust resistance, strength, and safety.

Why 18/8 Stainless Steel?

This alloy contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel². It's known for:

• Corrosion resistance: Ideal for both hot coffee and iced drinks.
• Non-reactivity: Doesn't change the taste of beverages.
• Durability: Resists dents and rust over years of use.

18/8 stainless steel is the industry standard for premium food-grade containers. It's the same steel used in kitchenware and medical equipment.

Quick Look: Steel Comparison Table

RTIC's choice reflects a balance of safety, strength, and cost for mass production.

How Does the Insulation and Lining in RTIC Tumblers Work?

We all love hot coffee that stays hot—or cold drinks that stay icy. But how does the cup really do that?

RTIC cups use double-wall vacuum insulation³ with a thin ceramic lining to block heat transfer and preserve taste.

The Technology Behind the Temperature

• Double-Wall Insulation: Two layers of steel with a vacuum in between reduce heat transfer by air.
• Ceramic Lining: A thin layer on the inside prevents metallic taste, especially for acidic drinks like coffee or lemon water.
• No-Sweat Design: Powder-coated exterior stays dry even with ice inside.

RTIC tumblers can keep liquids cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 6 hours, depending on the environment.

Insulation Breakdown

This smart layering makes RTIC a go-to for outdoor lovers, office workers, and parents alike.

Are RTIC Cups BPA-Free and Safe for Everyday Use?

Safety matters—especially when you're using something every single day. So, are these cups really safe?

Yes. All RTIC tumblers, lids, and accessories are BPA- and BPS-free⁴, FDA-compliant, and safe for daily use.

What Makes RTIC Cups Safe?

• No BPA or BPS: Plastics used in lids and seals are tested to avoid hormone-disrupting chemicals.
• Food-Grade Steel: No leaching of harmful metals; ceramic lining improves safety further.
• FDA-Approved Materials⁵: All components meet food contact safety standards.

RTIC cups undergo leaching tests showing less than 0.01ppm trace elements—well below safety thresholds.

Temperature Resilience

• Can handle liquids from -20°F to 200°F.
• Dishwasher safe (top rack for lids).
• No warping or cracking in everyday use.

This makes them perfect for hot coffee, chilled smoothies, or even soup on the go.

What Are the Lids and Accessories Made From on RTIC Products?

The cup's great—but what about the lid, straw, and other accessories? What are they made of?

RTIC lids are made from Tritan plastic with silicone seals, while accessories use BPA-free plastics or food-grade silicone.

Material Details

• Lids: Shatter-resistant Tritan copolyester. Stronger than standard plastic, resistant to clouding or cracking.
• Gaskets: Made of medical-grade silicone for tight, leak-proof seals.
• Handles and Sleeves: Optional accessories use flexible silicone or neoprene for comfort and grip.

Pros and Cons

These materials strike a balance between performance, safety, and weight.

How Durable Is the Construction of RTIC Cups Compared to Competitors?

Everyone drops their tumbler eventually. How well does RTIC hold up?

RTIC tumblers are extremely durable, with double-wall steel construction and powder-coating that resists dents, scratches, and UV damage.

Tested for Real Life

• Drop Test: Survives falls from up to 4 feet with minimal denting.
• Scratch Resistance: Powder coating lasts longer than paint, resisting daily wear.
• Lid Durability: Tritan lids withstand repeated drops without shattering.

Compared to Yeti, RTIC has similar construction at a lower price—but may show wear a little faster with heavy use.

Lifespan Comparison

With reasonable care, an RTIC tumbler can replace hundreds of disposable cups.

What Sustainability Features Are in RTIC Cup Materials?

You care about what goes into your cup—and what goes into the planet, too.

RTIC's 2025 tumblers include 30% recycled stainless steel and BPA-free plastic, helping reduce landfill waste and manufacturing emissions.

How RTIC Helps the Environment

• Recycled Steel: Reduces energy used in raw steel production.
• Reusable Design: One cup replaces up to 500 disposables per year.
• Eco Packaging: Recyclable cardboard used for shipping.

RTIC plans to raise recycled steel use to 50% by 2026, making them a better choice for eco-conscious buyers.

Limitations

• Plastic lids aren't biodegradable.
• No formal "carbon neutral" certification yet.
• Not fully made in the USA—most production is done in China.

Still, RTIC is moving in a greener direction, which matters in today's market.

Conclusion

RTIC tumblers in 2025 use food-safe stainless steel, ceramic linings, and BPA-free plastics to offer safe, durable hydration backed by modern materials.

FAQs

Are RTIC cups made of stainless steel?
Yes. RTIC cups are made from 18/8 (SUS304) food-grade stainless steel.

Is RTIC made in China?
Yes. Most RTIC products are manufactured in China, then distributed from the USA.

Do RTIC tumblers have lead?
No. RTIC products are tested lead-free and meet FDA safety standards.

Are RTIC and Yeti made in the same factory?
No. RTIC and Yeti use similar materials but manufacture in separate facilities.

Are RTIC lids dishwasher safe?
Yes, but only on the top rack to prevent warping.

Do RTIC cups rust over time?
No, unless damaged. The 18/8 stainless steel is rust-resistant and made for long-term use.