The Best Drink Dispensers

Buying Guide for Drink Dispensers

Why buy a drink dispenser?

There are several advantages to having a drink dispenser on hand when you need one. One of the top advantages is that many of these receptacles can hold several gallons of liquid, so you’ll be able to provide drinks for a multitude without having to refill often. Also, this thirsty group will have the option to serve themselves, saving a host a lot of time and effort during a gathering or outing. Many dispensers are designed with infusion cones, which enable you to infuse the essence of fresh fruits, berries, or herbs into your drink, adding flavor to the beverage as well as beauty to your serving area. Finally, some of the best drink dispensers can keep drinks fresh and at their intended temperature for up to 12 hours, which is ideal for parties or outdoor events.

What should you look for in drink dispensers?

• Size: Dispensers come in different sizes, so be sure to choose one that will fit your needs. For example, if you plan on using it for large events, be sure to get a dispenser with ample capacity. On the other hand, since a drink dispenser can be very large, it would be good to think about how you will store it when it’s not in use. If you’re getting more than one, you may want to consider stackable dispensers since they can be great space savers while in use and in storage.
• Material: While many drink dispensers are made of glass, plastic, stainless steel, or acrylic, you may also find some made of stone, crystal, or wood. Which one you choose will depend mostly on the beverage you will be putting inside. For example, plastic dispensers work well with cold, non-acidic beverages and are often lightweight for easy transport. If you are serving coffee or another hot drink, opt for an insulated stainless steel dispenser to keep your beverage hot for hours.
• Appearance: Dispensers come in all shapes and sizes, so you’ll want to find one that will line up with the look you’re going for, especially if you’re planning a special event. If you want your drink dispenser to serve as a decorative focal point, an attractive glass or fine crystal dispenser showing a colorful fresh fruit garnish will make a pretty display.

How do you clean a drink dispenser?

A drink dispenser can be easily cleaned using a mixture of warm water and dish detergent or a solution of water and white vinegar. It’s a good idea to give the spigot some extra attention since bacteria can grow rapidly in moist crevices. You may want to detach the spigot from the dispenser and clean it separately with a disinfecting vinegar and water solution.

Our Picks for the Best Drink Dispensers

Pros: Whether you’re hosting an indoor or outdoor event, the Anchor Hocking Heritage Beverage Dispenser can help keep your guests hydrated with convenience and style. It’s a versatile and durable option for dispensing liquids, such as lemonades, iced teas, and kombucha. The two-gallon capacity is perfect for hosting large gatherings or simply for personal use at home. The all-clear glass design with an oversized knob and spigot allows for easy gripping and dispensing of liquids, while the substantial weight of the container keeps it sturdy on the counter. The thick walled and wide mouth design provides maximum protection for the contents, and the glass-on-glass lid design ensures a reliable and snug fit. The glass construction is lead-free and BPA-free, making it a safer and healthier option than plastic or metal containers.

Cons: You may experience some minor issues with this product, such as leaking spigots or chipped lids. Additionally, the lid is a bit fragile so travel may be difficult with this dispenser, since it’ll require careful handling to prevent breakage. The base is also a bit on the wobbly side.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a high-quality, durable, and safe container to dispense and store liquids, this Anchor Hocking glass jar set is an excellent choice. Consider this dispenser if you want a model that’s the perfect blend of attractive and functional.

 

Pros: This lovely outdoor glass beverage dispenser set from Ilyapa is ideal for gatherings and celebrations. The thick glass jars with an antique look will look great on any serving table, and the wide opening will make filling and cleaning a breeze. The set features durable metal spigots and two adorable hanging chalkboards for labeling your beverages. The metal base lifts and secures the drink dispensers, allowing users to fill their cups easily so that they can quickly return to the fun.

Cons: The lids on these dispensers are not rustproof, so you may want to be sure to dry them thoroughly after each use. There are also reports of rusting on the metal top, which occurred within a few months of use. In addition, the top can be difficult to tighten.

Bottom Line: If you will be hosting a gathering and would like to offer a couple of beverage choices, this charming drink dispenser set is ideal. Each dispenser has a 1-gallon capacity.

 

Pros: If fruit-infused flavor will motivate you to drink more water, this dispenser has the features you need for the task. CreativeWare’s drink dispenser features a fruit infuser that you can fill with your favorite fruits, berries, or herbs to give your drinks a delicious boost of flavor. An ice cylinder is also included to keep your beverages cool without being diluted. The stand at the bottom keeps the dispenser sturdy, and its 3-gallon capacity makes it great for keeping a large group hydrated.

Cons: This acrylic drink dispenser is not ideal for holding hard cocktails since beverages containing more than 7% alcohol can damage it. Many reported that the faucet leaked, making it unusable. The plastic lids were also reported to be thin and did not close properly. Some customers found that the water turned murky quickly when using fruit.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a drink dispenser that keeps your drinks cool and flavorful, this might be the one! With the large capacity, you won’t have to worry about refilling too often. Keep in mind that your best bet would be to fill this one with non-alcoholic beverages.

 

Pros: This stackable pair of drink dispensers from Buddeez is a stylish and durable option for serving cold drinks at any occasion. Made from durable Tritan, it won’t shatter if accidentally dropped, making it ideal for outdoor events or parties. The “party top” lid saves space and allows for sliced fruit, decorative garnishes, and stacked cups, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the dispenser. It also comes with a washable chalkboard hang tag so you can label the beverages inside during parties. The stackable design allows for a tower dispenser option, providing ample space for drinks. The decorative spigot is of premium quality, and it won’t get clogged by seeds or ice. If you’re looking for a durable, stylish, and space-saving option for serving cold drinks at your next event or party, this nearly unbreakable refreshment dispenser is an excellent choice.

Cons: It’s recommended to handwash it to ensure the longevity of the product since it can be susceptible to damage from high temperatures or harsh chemicals found in dishwashers. Handwashing helps avoid any potential damage, but it does make the cleaning process more labor-intensive. And be sure to take care even when washing by hand, as there’s a chance the lid might break after normal use.

Bottom Line: Featuring a large capacity and unique lid with serving compartments, this drink dispenser from Buddeez raises the bar for beverage service. This dispenser can be used to serve two different beverages at once, from juice to lemonade to water and more, without taking up excess space.

 

Pros: If you are looking for a cute and stylish glass container that can be used for serving drinks at a party or gathering, look no further. This drink dispenser from Estilo is made of thick, high-quality glass and comes with a strong metal stand that offers stability. The wide-mouth design makes the dispenser easy to clean and fill, while the easy-pull spigot makes pouring effortless. Many customers have praised its sturdy glass jar and stand, as well as its easy assembly. It is also great for use at home as a water dispenser or for storing laundry detergent. Some customers have also found creative ways to use it, such as using it as a handwashing station. Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and attractive glass container, this product may be a good choice.

Cons: The spigot is made of plastic and is not as strong as those made of metal. You may want to purchase a metal spigot separately as a backup. Some have reported issues with leaks and slow pouring, which can be frustrating and messy. Finally, some customers have reported issues with the rubber rings that are supposed to prevent leaks, which can be difficult to adjust without causing more problems.

Bottom Line: This mason jar-style drink dispenser can provide an attractive focal point for your serving space at a good value. It is easy to set up, fill, and store and can work well at an indoor or outdoor event.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re serving freshly squeezed lemonade, your secret recipe punch, or fruit-infused water, having the right drink dispenser is essential for entertaining. A quality dispenser can also be well-utilized in your home or workplace. Our picks offer various options, yet each provides the opportunity to save time and effort while pouring drinks in style.