Owala lovers, you're going to want to tune in to this latest TikTok drama surrounding the cups.
Shoppers have been swapping out Owala tumbler lids on store shelves to create custom color combos. And while it may seem innocent enough, in addition to leaving others with entirely incorrect colorways, customers were quick to point out that lid swapping is rude, and makes a mess for retail workers. Some even said it could impact returns (although that isn't confirmed).
Once shoppers found out others have been swapping lids, they made videos begging them to stop. Some even made videos questioning if they had become a "victim" of lid swapping. But for many, like TikTok user Emma.Ro, the message was loud and clear. She even posted an apology video, and it went viral — to the tune of nearly 10 million views. Others, however, say they have no plans of stopping.
Owala is known for its standout patterns and color pairings on everything from its FreeSip water bottles to its 40-ounce tumblers. And while it might seem like fun to mix-and-match colors and create your own custom bottle, the brand does not recommend it. "We encourage customers to please refrain from lid-swapping or altering bottles in any way prior to purchase," a spokesperson from Owala told Good Housekeeping. "Doing so disrupts the unique color combinations we work diligently to create, and it can prevent fellow Owala fans from finding the products they wish to purchase."
If you still want to create your own color combo, we have a solution: Owala replacement lids. Sold online for only $7 each, the brand makes them in over two dozen colors. "Our replacement lids are offered for sale in case of loss or damage to an original lid," said the Owala spokesperson. "Customers can certainly purchase replacement lids to change up the color scheme of their bottle (after purchasing an original bottle design) if they wish."
When it comes to insulated water bottles, Owala lids are a favorite of our Good Housekeeping Institute team. "I love that the drinking spout is protected and that it clicks into place so you know it's sealed," says Nicole Papantoniou, director of the Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab. "It's also amongst the easiest spouts to drink out of. You don't have to pucker your lips or suck in hard. I also love that the lid has a thin, comfy carrying handle."
One catch with the replacement lids is that they only come with a spout and not an included straw. “Owala FreeSip replacement lids are identical to original Owala FreeSip lids, with the same patented design and patented FreeSip spout,” Owala’s spokesperson said. “We offer replacement straws separately, as more often than not, our customers need just one or the other (lid or straw) and not both.”
For those who want a new lid, I've shared bright and muted color options to shop, below. (The coastal mist colorway is a personal favorite). If you prefer the original water bottle pairings, you're still in for a treat with leaving the cool color combos as-is. "I'm very much a traditionalist in the sense I would stick to the color combos Owala recommends," says Papantoniou. "The white colorway has been my favorite recently. I love the sleek look. I also like the more muted, monochrome colorways, although I love how fun the retro boardwalk hue is."
Shop Owala Replacement Lids
Nashia Baker is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines; she covers all things home and lifestyle across brands such as Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, Delish, and Esquire. Before joining Hearst, she highlighted small business owners, creatives, and the best shoppable content.
