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Stanley Quencher Tumbler review: Once and for all, is it worth it?
I tested the famous cup for months — and found that it's far more than a 'big dumb cup.'
At this point, even if you live under a rock, you've probably heard about the Stanley Quencher Tumbler. Not only has it gone viral across social media, but it's been covered by the New York Times, turned into an SNL sketch and even caused people to camp outside their local Targets. Given all the hype, I decided to put the 40-ounce Stanley Quencher Tumbler to the test. But I didn't simply use it for a few days: I have been toting it around for more than four months to see whether it would fit into my life, or if it was just as SNL joked — a "big dumb cup."
Shop the country's most famous tumbler in five sizes and more than 30 colors.
- Dishwasher-safe
- Doesn't have to be refilled frequently
- Keeps drinks cold for hours
- Leaks when tipped over
- Pretty heavy when full
- Doesn't fit comfortably in most purses
Available in five sizes, ranging from a petite 14 ounces to a hefty 64 ounces, the Stanley Quencher Tumbler sells for $20 to $60. Each tumbler features the brand's FlowState three-position lid, which lets you rotate the lid to the straw opening, the spout opening or the closed position. The body of each Quencher is made of BPA-free stainless steel, and all sizes up to 40 ounces can fit in most standard car cup holders. However, my favorite feature is that all parts of the tumbler are dishwasher-safe, so cleaning is a breeze.
Now let's get into the nitty-gritty of actually using one — in my case, the viral 40-ounce tumbler.
First impressions
When I initially received my Stanley cup, my first (and very obvious) thought was: This is huge. It's much bigger than the traditional water bottles I've used, and when it's filled up, it's pretty heavy, making the handle necessary.
I much prefer drinking beverages with a straw, so the fact that this tumbler comes with one is definitely a plus. I don't sip out of the spout opening because it feels a little awkward, and I don't want to have to close the opening after I take a drink.
Does the Stanley Quencher leak or spill?
Sad to say: Yes, the Stanley leaks. Even when the tumbler's lid is tight in the closed position and the straw has been removed, it leaks when I turn it on its side. For this reason, I don't typically bring it with me when I'm on the go.
If I want to take a water bottle with me, I opt for something like the Owala FreeSip that snaps shut with a click and doesn't leak or spill. That way I can confidently toss it in my bag without worrying about making a mess.
Does the Stanley Quencher fit in a purse?
The 40-ounce tumbler can fit in a tote bag but is much too large for the average purse. Also, if I can't keep it standing up in my tote, there's a good chance it will leak. When I do put it in a tote, I make sure to pack my bag fully so that everything stays in place.
However, as I mentioned, I don't bring my Stanley when I'm out and about. I work from home, so I use it exclusively when I'm in my apartment. It's always next to me at my desk, and I use it throughout the evening when I'm watching TV on my couch or reading in bed. Although grabbing it from bed took some getting used to due to its size, it's second nature now.
How long does the Stanley Quencher keep water cold?
According to the brand, the 40-ounce tumbler keeps water cold for 11 hours and can hold ice for two days. These stats vary between tumbler sizes, but, thanks to the double wall insulation, I've found both claims to be true. This is especially welcome when I wake up thirsty in the middle of the night and reach for a sip of water from my Stanley — I always know it'll be ice cold.
Is the Stanley Quencher worth it?
In my opinion, the Stanley Quencher is absolutely worth a purchase. While I was skeptical about using such a large cup, it really is a great option when I'm at home. No, I don't take it to the gym and I wouldn't necessarily bring it on vacation, but if you're looking for a water bottle that doesn't need to be filled up that often and always keeps your drinks cold, this is the one.
And since the Stanley is dishwasher-safe, it's not a big deal to clean it. For this reason — and because of its substantial volume — in just a few months, my Stanley cup has become one of the things I reach for most when I'm home.
Where can I buy the Stanley Quencher?
If you're ready for this popular tumbler, now's a great time: It's in stock at several retailers. Currently, you can shop the tumbler on Stanley's website, as well as at Amazon, Target, Walmart, Dick's Sporting Goods and others. It comes in over 30 colors as well as limited edition patterns, so there's a cup for everyone. Cheers to that!
You won't have to constantly refill this 40-ounce tumbler. And while it might be heavy, the comfort-grip handle makes all the difference.