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Why is everyone so obsessed with the Stanley tumbler? What you need to know

In the past, the Quencher has sold out within hours of restocks.

We all know how important it is to stay hydrated, but reaching your daily water goal is often easier said than done. One helpful way to make sure you're drinking enough throughout the day is by keeping a reusable bottle on hand. Although, if you're really serious about upping your water intake, you don't want just any vessel for your H2O — you want the best of the best.

And the Stanley Adventure Quencher Travel Tumbler is a clear internet favorite. The 40-ounce tumbler, which has been simply dubbed “the Quencher” or "the cup" by its loyal following of fans, has repeatedly sold out within hours, if not minutes, of restocks over the last few years (at one point, it had a waitlist of 150,000 people). Even now, select colors are sold out.

Videos of people lined up outside of Target for a limited-edition collab recently went viral. One person even claimed to have waited in line overnight to get the cup, which is now only available at Starbucks locations inside Target stores.

So what exactly makes the Stanley Quencher so popular? Below, we're sharing everything you need to know about the buzzed-about tumbler, from why people love it to how to shop it.

What is the Stanley Quencher? | Why are Stanley cups so popular? | More Stanley Quenchers | Stanley Quencher accessories | How to clean the Stanley Quencher | Do Stanley cups contain lead?

Stanley The Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler

The Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler has tons of features that people can't get enough of, including a large 40-ounce size, temperature-keeping design and tons of chic colors (some of which are currently sold out). The brand updated the design in 2022 adding some new elements, including a 90% recycled stainless steel construction and an ergonomic handle with comfort-grip inserts.

"The Quencher has become an internet sensation over the last two years," Terence Reilly, global president of the Stanley brand, said in a release. "As it has quickly risen in popularity — with restocks selling out in mere minutes and videos quickly going viral on social media — we wanted to continue to provide innovative products and solutions for our consumers. With the new Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler, we ensured it was still everything consumers love about the Quencher, plus new features that meet a variety of activity and hydration needs and fit into a more sustainable, less disposable lifestyle."

The model also has a FlowState Lid, which has a silicone seal around its straw base that is designed to help prevent spills. The rotating top's design includes three positions, so you can sip from the wide-mouth opening, use the accompanying straw or close it up when you're not drinking.

What is the Stanley Quencher?

Stanley, which was founded in 1913, is known for creating ultra-durable and sleek drinkware and food storage options, and the Quencher is no different. Shoppers fell in love with its quality and its ability to keep drinks cold for hours, and within the last few years, the tumbler has become a social media hit thanks to raving endorsements from mom bloggers and popular review accounts on Instagram and TikTok (it's racked up more than 240 million views on the app).

A representative from the brand shared with us that in 2022 there was a 275% increase in sales of the Quencher year over year, and U.S. sales of all sizes of the tumbler were up 751% in the year to date.

"Our 40oz Quencher is an internet phenomenon!" Reilly told Shop TODAY via email. "It became wildly popular initially by word of mouth, and now trends on social organically, with people posting about their favorite hydration accessory. Influencers and our affiliates certainly play a part in Quencher success as well."

The 40-ounce vacuum-insulated cup is said to keep drinks cold for up to 11 hours, hot for seven and even hold ice for up to two days. And because of its large size, the fact that it has a handle is a huge plus. It makes carrying it to the office or toting it around for workout classes and walks a lot easier. And as an added bonus, it's dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning a breeze.

Why are Stanley cups so popular?

Much of its popularity comes from its large size and its ability to keep drinks cold for hours.

Many members of the Shop TODAY team count themselves as Stanley Quencher fans, and you can spot the hydration vessel on plenty of desks throughout our office.

"I have to admit, I was reluctant about giving in to the hype of Stanley Quenchers when they first rose in popularity but now I can’t go a day without them," associate SEO editor Kamari Stewart says. "I have one at home and one in the office and it helps me stay consistent with my water intake. Plus, since it holds so much, it requires less refills throughout the day which is less work on my part."

Personally, I also have two — one to keep at home and one for the office — and I find I drink much more water on days when I have one near, as compared to when I'm using a traditional water bottle.

Reviewers also say that they love how durable it is — the stainless steel material can stand up against tumbles — and how it can fit into the drink holder of most cars.

"Best mug/tumbler I’ve ever had," wrote one reviewer. "I love the colors and how long it stays cold. Not to mention the straw. All around best product out there!!!!"

"I love my Stanley, Period!" another person wrote. "Great tumbler that keeps your water cold, even if you leave it inside your car with windows up and 100 degrees Fahrenheit inside. After 8 hour of work I can come back to my Stanley and find my cold water still cold." 

In addition to the full-size model, the brand also has smaller versions of the Quencher, which you can shop, below.

More Stanley Quenchers

Stanley The Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler, 14-Ounce


Stanley's smallest and lightest Quencher, the brand says this mini version is perfect for kids — and adults, too. At just $20 it's the most affordable of the Quenchers, so it could serve as a great introduction for anyone who wants to see what the hype is all about.

Stanley The Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler, 20-Ounce


Not too big or too small, the 20-ounce version seems like the perfect size for everyday use. You could tote it around while running errands or even use it to keep your morning cup of coffee hot — or cold, depending on how you like it.

Stanley The Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler, 30-Ounce


All the above sizes, including this 30-ounce version, feature double-wall vacuum insulation, screw-on lid, recycled stainless steel design and reusable straw. Plus, they're designed to fit in your cup holder. This 30-ounce model is great for anyone who is looking for something that's just a little lighter than the original Quencher.

Stanley Quencher accessories

Mlksi Silicone Boot for Stanley Cup

If you make your coworkers jump every time you accidentally slam your Stanley Quncher down on your desk, it might be time to think about getting a silicone boot. The brand says that these can help protect your tumbler from scratches, dents and keep those loud noises to a minimum.

Homdsg Silicone Spill Stopper, Set of 3

If I had one complaint about the Stanley Quencher, it would be that it's not spill-proof. But this affordable accessory promises to fix that. It comes with round leak stoppers to prevent water from spilling out of the center and straw covers to keep drips at bay when you're not sipping from it.

CXLL Silicone Straw Covers for Stanley Cup

These cute covers are another popular Amazon option. The brand says they'll fit perfectly on 10-millimeter straws, like those included with various sizes of the Quencher.

OriJoy Letter Charm Accessories

As far as hydration vessels go, the Quenchers, with their sleek design and numerous color options, are pretty chic. But you can take yours to the next level with this cute personalized letter charm bangle.

Royacon Water Bottle Carrier Bag 

This handy accessory doubles as both a pouch for your phone, credit cards and more and a carrying bag for your Stanley, so you can go completely hands-free on your walks!

Tumbler Personalized Name Tag

While you can customize any new Stanley Quencher on the brand's website, if you already have one and are hoping to add some personalization, consider this top-rated nameplate. It's designed to fit the tumbler's top lid and be easy to remove when it's time to clean your cup.

How to clean the Stanley Quencher

The good news is the Quencher is designed to be dishwasher-safe, so it's relatively easy to clean. But if you prefer to wash it by hand, Stanley suggests using non-abrasive cleaner on its products, such as gentle dish soap paired with a dishrag, soft sponge or small brush for any hard to reach places.

Experts previously told us that it's important to clean the straw of your water bottle regularly, as it can harbor bacteria. The best way to do that is by using a pipe cleaner or straw brush soaked in dish soap.

Do Stanley cups contain lead?

Recently, people on social media voiced their concern that the Stanley Quenchers contain lead — and could therefore lead to potential exposure.

A representative for Stanley previously confirmed to TODAY.com that lead is used in the manufacturing process. There's a circular stainless steel barrier at the bottom of each tumbler that covers a pellet, which does contain lead. But the pellet is only accessible if that barrier comes off, which the Stanley spokesperson said is “rare.”