Behind the Scenes of the Insulated Travel Tumbler Development!

In today’s world, environmental awareness is growing rapidly—from anti-plastic movements to zero-waste lifestyles. More and more people are reconsidering how everyday consumption affects the planet. One simple yet meaningful choice: using a reusable insulated bottle, has become a starting point for living a more eco-friendly life. It’s not just about keeping drinks hot or cold—it's also about reducing single-use cups. With sustainability at its core, Bone launched the Insulated Travel Tumbler project in 2023.

Competitor Analysis & Market Research

Reusable cups on the market today come in various materials, catering to different consumer needs and habits. We started by gathering top-selling eco cups for competitor analysis, summarizing their pros, cons, and features. We then examined the needs of different consumer groups and identified common pain points. By analyzing drink volumes at various beverage shops, we determined the ideal size to accommodate most large-sized drinks. Based on this broad research, we established our product’s core features.

Core Design Features

Leakproof sealing

Secure lid that stays in place

Easy to clean

750mL capacity

Hand-carry & crossbody compatible

Suitable for hot and cold beverages

Material & Capacity Analysis

With our core features set, we moved on to selecting materials. Common options include plastic, stainless steel, glass, silicone, and ceramic—each with different heat resistance and characteristics.

Identifying Pain Points & Solutions

After gaining a solid understanding of reusable cups, we began observing the pain points in everyday usage. We noticed that most leakproof reusable cups rely on silicone gaskets, which often become hygiene issues. These small gaskets can trap bacteria in crevices caused by detachable parts, and because they’re hard to clean, mold and bacteria often accumulate underneath.

So we aimed to develop a reusable cup that’s leakproof—without needing a silicone gasket.

With extensive experience in silicone product development, Bone explored combining hard materials with soft silicone to create a leakproof seal. By using pressure from plastic or metal to compress the silicone, we could fill the gaps that typically cause leaks. This idea became the foundation for our design exploration.

Once we confirmed the design direction and materials, we began prototyping the innovative structure. Through multiple rounds of silicone sampling and 3D-printed mock-ups, we tested our concepts under various conditions. We worked closely with manufacturing partners to study production techniques, eventually creating a custom mold for production.

Cup Tie 2

The original Cup Tie has been one of Bone’s long-time bestsellers. With a minimalist design, it reduces volume while flexibly fitting different cup sizes. Made of eco-friendly silicone, it can be easily washed clean of beverage stains.

Now, we’re introducing the new generation: Cup Tie 2. Have you ever found drink carriers uncomfortable to hold, or tiring to repeatedly remove and reattach? Cup Tie 2 solves this with a retractable strap. When not in use, the strap can be stowed inside the Cup Tie, making your drink easier to hold.

In addition to the hand-carry version, we’ve also released a crossbody model, allowing you to go hands-free. The crossbody strap is made entirely of silicone—flexible for comfort, and free of hard components to avoid scratching your Insulated Travel Tumbler.

Choosing the right reusable bottle not only improves your quality of life—it’s also a way to show kindness to the Earth. Starting with just one cup a day, we can reduce single-use waste and take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future. Environmental protection isn’t just a slogan; it’s a change made through small, everyday choices. Let’s start with our Insulated Travel Tumbler—and warm the world, one sip at a time.