How to choose a beer growlers
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
To choose a beer growler, decide between stainless steel (durable, light-blocking, insulated) and glass (affordable, classic, shows the beer). Pick a size that matches your drinking pace and a closure that seals tightly, flip-top or screw-cap, and always clean it thoroughly after each use to keep your beer fresh.
Stainless steel vs. glass: which is better for you?
Stainless steel growlers are rugged, keep beer cold for hours (double-wall vacuum insulation), and block UV light that can skunk hops. They are heavier and pricier but ideal for outdoor trips or if you drop things. Glass growlers let you see the beer, are lighter, and often more affordable, but they break easily and let in light unless tinted or stored in a dark bag. If you want insulation and durability, go stainless. If you prefer tradition, weight, and a lower cost, glass is a fine choice.
What size growler should you get?
Most growlers come in 32-ounce (a “howler”) or 64-ounce (a standard growler) capacities, though larger 128-ounce versions exist. A 64-ounce growler holds about four pints, roughly two generous pints per person if you‘re sharing. For solo drinking over a weekend, a 32-ounce might be better because beer starts to lose carbonation after opening. Think about how much beer you and your friends will drink in one sitting or within a day or two. Bigger isn’t always better if the beer goes flat before you finish it.
Which closure type keeps beer freshest?
Flip-top (swing-top) closures with a rubber gasket form a tight seal and are easy to open and close, they‘re classic and reliable. Screw-cap growlers also seal well if the cap has a good lining, but they can be harder to clean threads and may leak over time. Both types work fine, but flip-tops are generally preferred because the gasket creates a more consistent, easy-to-tighten seal. Just replace the gasket every year or so if it starts to crack.
Is the interior lining important in stainless steel growlers?
High-quality stainless steel growlers (like those from well-regarded brands) are typically made from 18/8 or 304 stainless steel with a stainless interior, no extra lining needed. Avoid growlers with plastic or enamel coatings because they can scratch, harbor bacteria, or affect taste. Check that the stainless is food-grade and unlined. For glass, obviously there’s no lining issue; just make sure the glass is thick enough to survive a gentle bump.
How to clean and maintain a growler
Both glass and stainless steel growlers should be rinsed immediately after use to prevent beer residue from drying. For a deep clean, use hot water and a brush that reaches the bottom, a narrow bottle brush works well, and a mild detergent. Avoid abrasive scouring pads that scratch stainless or glass. Sanitize occasionally with a no-rinse sanitizer (like Star San) or a diluted bleach solution (then rinse thoroughly). Let the growler dry completely upside down before storing. Never put a pressurized growler in the dishwasher, the heat can warp seals or damage insulation.
Can you carbonate or bottle-condition beer in a growler?
Yes, but with caution. Glass growlers with swing tops are sometimes used for home carbonation or bottle conditioning, but standard beer growlers aren’t designed to hold high pressure, they can explode. If you plan to carbonate, use growlers rated for pressure (sold specifically for homebrewing). For ordinary store-bought beer or brewery fills, any good growler is fine. Just don’t leave a sealed growler in a hot car; pressure can build and force the cap off or crack the glass.
Frequently asked questions
Is a stainless steel growler worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you value durability, insulation, and portability. Stainless growlers keep beer cold for hours and won‘t break if knocked over in a cooler. For backyard use or display, glass is cheaper and works perfectly well.
How long will beer stay fresh in a growler?
Once filled and sealed, beer stays fresh for about 24–48 hours if refrigerated. After opening, drink it within a day. Stainless insulated growlers can keep beer cold longer, but carbonation still fades, so plan to finish it in one or two sittings.
Which is lighter: glass or stainless steel?
Glass is generally lighter than a double-wall stainless steel growler of the same capacity. If you’re carrying a full growler on foot, glass is easier on your arm, but it’s more fragile. Stainless steel offers a trade-off of weight for toughness.
Can I use a growler for other drinks?
Absolutely. Growlers work great for iced tea, water, kombucha, or cocktails. Just be sure to clean them thoroughly between uses to avoid flavor crossover. Some people also use them as vacuum bottles for hot coffee (check manufacturer guidelines for temperature limits).
Do growlers need to be stored upright?
It’s best to store a growler upright to keep the seal dry and prevent leaking. Lying it on its side can strain the closure and cause beer to seep out, especially with screw-cap growlers. Glass growlers also risk cracking if placed sideways against a hard surface.