A Guide to Buying Thermos Flasks
Me and My Thermos Flask
I’m a bit of a coffee addict, so I always take a flask of coffee when I’m fishing.
A hot drink on a cold winter’s day is a great morale booster, especially when you are struggling for bites.
I did make a silly mistake recently. It was minus 5 degrees on the riverbank, and I opened my flask for a warming cup of coffee, to find that I’d only put milk and hot water in my flask. I’d forgotten to put in any coffee! Disaster.
Flasks for Fishermen and women—and anyone who loves the outdoors.
If you love fishing, you know how challenging it can be to enjoy your hobby in the cold winter months. You have to deal with freezing temperatures, icy winds, and numb fingers. But there is one thing that can make your fishing trip more comfortable and enjoyable: a thermos flask.
History of the Thermos Flask
The thermos flask is a device that can keep liquids hot or cold for a long time by using a vacuum between two walls of glass or metal.
The idea of creating a vacuum to prevent heat loss was first experimented by a Scottish scientist named Sir James Dewar in 1892, who needed to keep some chemicals at a stable temperature for his research in cryogenics.
He did not patent his invention, which he called a Dewar flask, and it was later improved and commercialized by two German glassblowers, Reinhold Burger and Albert Aschenbrenner, who registered the trademark Thermos in 1904.
The name Thermos comes from the Greek word Thérmē, meaning heat.
The Thermos flask became a popular product for domestic and industrial use and was taken on many famous expeditions around the world.
Some of the most notable expeditions that used thermos flasks were:
– Lt E.H. Shackleton’s trip to the South Pole in 1907-1909. He and his team used thermos flasks to keep their tea warm in the freezing Antarctic climate.
– Lt Robert E. Peary’s trip to the Arctic in 1909. He and his team used thermos flasks to keep their coffee hot in the polar regions.
– Colonel Roosevelt’s expedition to Mombassa and into the heart of the African Congo with Richard Harding Davis in 1909-1910. He and his team used thermos flasks to keep their water cool in the tropical heat.
As an Amazon and Ebay Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
- HOT OR COLD FOR 24 HOURS: Fill the 1L thermal flask with water, coffee, tea or other drinks, whether you’re at home, work or outdoors; The double-wall vacuum insulation of this thermos keeps all your drinks hot/cold for 24 hours and 120 hours with ice
- EXTREMELY DURABLE: Our leak-proof thermos bottle has withstood speeding bullets, 4000 ft drops and category 5 hurricanes; The iconic style and rugged durability of this insulated bottle means it’s made to go anywhere
Construction of Thermos Flasks
A typical thermos flask consists of the following parts:
– A screw-on stopper that seals the flask and prevents heat transfer by convection.
– An outer case made of plastic or metal that protects the flask from damage and provides some insulation.
– A double-walled glass or metal vessel that holds the liquid. The outer surface of the inner wall and the inner surface of the outer wall are coated with a reflective material, such as silver, to reduce heat transfer by radiation.
– A vacuum between the two walls that eliminates heat transfer by conduction and convection. The vacuum is created by pumping out the air from the space between the walls.
– One or more supports that keep the inner vessel in place and prevent it from collapsing under atmospheric pressure.
– Additional insulation, such as foam, that reduces heat losses and cushions the flask against impacts.
Materials Used to Make a Thermos Flask
– Glass: Glass is a good insulator and does not react with most liquids. However, glass is fragile and can break easily if dropped or hit. Glass can also crack if exposed to sudden changes in temperature.
– Metal: Metal is more durable and resistant to impacts than glass. Metal can also withstand higher temperatures and pressures. However, metal is not as good an insulator as glass and can conduct some heat. Metal can also corrode or rust if exposed to certain liquids or air.
What to Look for When Buying a Thermos Flask
Here are some things to look for when buying a thermos flask:
Size
Flasks come in different volume capacities, ranging from 500ml to several litres. You’ll want to consider how much liquid you need to carry, and how often you can refill it. Smaller flasks are more portable and lightweight, but larger flasks can keep more drinks hot or cold for longer.
Materials
The best thermos flasks are made from durable and insulated materials, such as stainless steel or glass. Stainless steel flasks are more resistant to impact and corrosion, while glass flasks can retain heat better and are easier to clean. However, glass flasks are also more fragile and heavier than stainless steel ones.
Heat Retention
Always check how long the flask can keep your drink hot or cold, as some are better at this than others. The heat retention depends on the quality of the insulation, the seal of the lid, and the shape of the flask.
Generally, flasks with wider mouths tend to lose heat faster than those with narrower ones. You can also look for flasks that have double-wall vacuum insulation, which creates an airless space between the inner and outer walls, preventing heat transfer.
Impact Resistance
If you plan to use your flask outdoors or in rough conditions, you’ll want to choose one that can withstand drops and bumps without denting or breaking.
Look for flasks that have rubber or silicone coatings, which can absorb shocks and protect the flask from scratches.
You can also check the reviews of other users to see how durable the flask is in real life.
Design and Functionality
Thermos flasks can have different designs and features, such as handles, straps, cups, lids or spouts. You should choose a thermos flask that is easy to use and comfortable to hold. You should also look for a thermos flask that has a wide mouth, which makes it easier to fill, clean and drink from.
Lid and Stopper Design
The lid and stopper are important parts of the flask, as they prevent leaks and spills, and also affect how easy it is to drink from the flask.
Some flasks have a twist and pour stopper, which allows you to pour your drink without removing the lid completely. This reduces heat loss and makes it more convenient to use.
Some flasks have a push button lid, which lets you drink directly from the flask with one hand. This is handy if you don’t have a cup.
Some flasks have a lid that doubles as a cup, which is useful if you want to share your drink or enjoy it in a more comfortable way.
Price and Quality
Thermos flasks can vary in price and quality, depending on the brand, material and features.
You should look for a thermos flask that offers good value for money and has positive reviews from other customers.
You should also check the warranty and customer service of the seller before buying.
- This large-capacity flask is light in weight and tough enough to be almost unbreakable.
- It has an easy-grip handle and a stainless-steel cap that doubles as a cup.
- The double-walled vacuum insulation keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold for longer.
- Hot for 12 hours and cold for 24 hours
Biggest Brands
There are many brands that offer thermos flasks, but some are more reputable and reliable than others. Some of the biggest and best brands are Thermos and Stanley. These brands have been around for some time and have proven their quality and performance with various models and features.
You can also check their websites for more information and customer service.
Cleaning
After using your flask, you’ll want to clean it properly to prevent bacteria growth and odour. Some flasks are easier to clean than others, depending on the material, shape, and design of the flask.
Look for flasks that have wide mouths, removable lids, and smooth surfaces, which make them easier to wash by hand or in the dishwasher.
How to Clean Your Thermos Flask
– For regular cleaning, use warm water and mild dish soap. Fill the flask with water, add a few drops of soap, and shake it well. Then rinse it thoroughly and let it air dry.
– For deodorizing and removing stains, use baking soda and vinegar. Put a teaspoon of baking soda and a splash of vinegar in the flask and fill it with boiling water. Be careful, it may fizz up. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight, then rinse it well.
– For extra scrubbing power, use rice or eggshells. Put some uncooked rice or crushed eggshells in the flask and fill it with water. Shake it vigorously for a few minutes, then empty it and rinse it well. This will help loosen any stubborn dirt or residue.
Remember to always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before cleaning your flask, as some materials may have specific care instructions. Avoid soaking your flask in water for too long, as this may damage it.
What are Thermal Mugs?
If you are looking for a way to enjoy your hot or cold drinks on the go, you might want to consider buying a thermal mug.
Thermal mugs are containers that can keep your beverages at the desired temperature for a long time, thanks to their insulating materials and design. But what are the features you should consider when buying a thermal mug? And what are the benefits of using one? Here are some answers to these questions.
- Double wall vacuum insulation retains hot or cold temperatures
- Durable stainless-steel interior and soft touch plastic exterior
- Twist lock lid
- Integrated handle for maximum portability
Benefits of Using a Thermal Mug
Benefits of using a thermal mug:
– Save money: By using a thermal mug, you can save money on buying drinks from cafes or vending machines, as you can bring your own homemade or pre-made beverages with you. You can also save money on energy bills, as you don’t need to reheat your drink every time you want to enjoy it.
– Save time: By using a thermal mug, you can save time on waiting in line or preparing your drink, as you can simply fill your mug with your favorite beverage and take it with you wherever you go. You can also save time on cleaning, as most thermal mugs are dishwasher-safe or easy to wash by hand.
– Save the environment: By using a thermal mug, you can save the environment by reducing waste and pollution. You can avoid using disposable cups, lids and straws that end up in landfills or oceans, harming wildlife and ecosystems. You can also reduce your carbon footprint by using less energy and resources to make or reheat your drink.
– Enjoy your drink: By using a thermal mug, you can enjoy your drink at its optimal temperature and flavor for longer. You don’t have to worry about your drink getting cold or warm, losing its aroma or freshness, or spilling or leaking.
- Double wall insulation retains hot or cold temperatures
- Durable stainless-steel interior and easy to clean plastic exterior
- Twist lock lid
- Slide resistant foam base
Features to Consider when Buying a Thermal Mug
– Thermal insulation: This is the most important feature of a thermal mug, as it determines how long your drink will stay hot or cold. The thermal insulation depends on the materials, technology and construction of the mug. Generally, stainless steel mugs with vacuum insulation are the best at keeping the temperature, as they prevent heat transfer by conduction, convection and radiation.
– Capacity: Depending on how much drink you want to carry, you should choose a mug with the right capacity for your needs. Thermal mugs come in different sizes, from 250 ml to 1 liter or more. Of course, the larger the capacity, the heavier and bulkier the mug will be, so you should also consider the portability and convenience of the mug.
– Design: The design of the mug affects not only its appearance, but also its functionality and durability. You should look for a mug that has a comfortable handle, a secure lid, a leak-proof seal, and a easy-to-clean surface. You should also choose a mug that suits your personal style and preference, as there are many colors, shapes and patterns available on the market.
– Brand: The brand of the mug can indicate its quality, reliability and reputation. You should look for a mug that comes from a reputable and trustworthy manufacturer, that offers good customer service and warranty, and that has positive reviews and feedback from other users.
Summary
As you can see, a thermos flask is a great accessory for fishing in wintery weather. It can make your fishing experience more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable. So don’t forget to pack one in your fishing bag the next time you head out to the lake or river.
Thermal mugs are ideal companions for lovers of the outdoors, when camping or fishing and also travelers and commuters – in fact anyone who loves hot drinks on the go. They offer many advantages over regular cups or bottles, such as better thermal insulation, more capacity and more design options.
© 000Fishing All Rights Reserved
Photo credits: Jonas Jacobsson and Thom Holmes https://unsplash.com/@jonasjacobsson
https://unsplash.com/@thomholmes
