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Cirkul Review: The Game-Changing Hydration System That Makes Water Taste Exciting
Let’s be real: plain water isn’t for everyone. Whether your tap water has an off-putting taste or you crave variety without the sugar crash, staying hydrated can feel like a chore. That’s where Cirkul comes in. After testing this innovative hydration system for months—and digging into user feedback—I’m breaking down why it’s become a staple for busy professionals, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone who struggles to drink enough H2O.
What Is Cirkul, Anyway?
Founded in 2018 by Garrett Waggoner and Andy Gay, Cirkul is redefining hydration with its patented bottle-and-cartridge system. Unlike traditional flavor drops or powders, it lets you customize your water in seconds—no messy measurements, no guesswork. The concept is simple: a reusable bottle, a flavor “Sip” cartridge, and a lid with an adjustable dial. Together, they turn plain water into a personalized drink that fits your mood and needs .
How It Works (Spoiler: It’s Genius)
The magic is in Cirkul’s no-fuss engineering. Here’s the step-by-step:
  1. Fill & Attach: Pour water into your Cirkul bottle (available in 12oz, 22oz, or 32oz sizes, plus plastic or stainless steel options ) and screw on the lid.
  1. Insert Cartridge: Pop a Sip cartridge into the lid—choose from over 150 flavors, including electrolyte-boosted “FitSip,” energy-infused “GoSip,” or unsweetened “PureSip” .
  1. Dial In Flavor: Twist the lid’s dial from 0 (plain water) to 10 (max intensity). I’ve found level 3 hits the sweet spot—noticeable flavor without being overpowering .
The clever part? Water mixes with flavor only in the lid, not the bottle itself. That means no residual taste when you switch cartridges, and every sip is consistent . Plus, the lid is disposable with the cartridge—no cleaning required, which is a win for hygiene .
Why It’s a Hydration Game-Changer
1. It Actually Makes You Drink More Water
The numbers don’t lie: 96% of Cirkul users report drinking more water with the system . I used to struggle to hit 64oz a day, but now I find myself refilling my bottle without thinking—especially when I switch to fun flavors like Mango Passionfruit or Peach Tea. For anyone who’s tried (and failed) to love plain water, this is a game-changer.
2. Healthy, Guilt-Free Flavor
Forget sugary sodas or artificial drink mixes. Cirkul’s cartridges have 0 calories, 0 sugar, and no artificial colors . Sweetened options use sucralose or stevia, and the PureSip line skips sweeteners entirely—perfect for those avoiding additives . It’s also WW (Weight Watchers)-approved, making it a great fit for healthy lifestyles .
3. Sustainable (With a Caveat)
Single-use plastic bottles are a environmental nightmare—and Cirkul helps cut down on waste. Each cartridge replaces six 20oz bottled drinks, reducing plastic use by 84% . That said, the cartridges themselves are single-use, which is a downside for zero-waste enthusiasts . It’s a trade-off, but still a better choice than buying individual bottles.
4. Convenient for On-the-Go
The bottles are leakproof, top-rack dishwasher safe, and portable enough for commutes or workouts . I toss mine in my bag daily, and never worry about spills. Plus, you can grab cartridges at major retailers like Walmart, Target, or Amazon—no need to wait for online orders .
The Catch: What to Know Before Buying
Cirkul isn’t perfect. Here are the biggest complaints from users (and my experience):
  • Cartridge Longevity: While Cirkul claims cartridges last 6 refills, some users (including me) find they run out faster at higher flavor levels—sometimes after 2-4 refills . At ~$3 per cartridge, that can add up.
  • Sweetener Sensitivity: Sucralose and stevia bother some people, leading to an aftertaste . Stick to PureSip if you’re sensitive.
  • Customer Service Hiccups: A number of reviewers mention unresponsive support and shipping delays . I haven’t had issues, but it’s worth noting.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy Cirkul?
Buy It If:
  • You struggle to drink enough plain water.
  • You want a healthy alternative to soda or sugary drinks.
  • You’re eco-conscious but need convenience.
Skip It If:
  • You avoid all artificial sweeteners.
  • You’re committed to zero-waste living (single-use cartridges are a dealbreaker).
  • You’re on a tight budget (initial setup + ongoing cartridges add up).
Final Verdict: Worth the Hype?
Absolutely—for most people. Cirkul turns hydration from a chore into a pleasure, and the health and environmental benefits outweigh its flaws. I’ve recommended it to friends who hate plain water, and every single one has thanked me. If you’re ready to drink more water without sacrificing flavor, it’s a worthy investment.
Pro tip: Use Cirkul’s first-order discount (20% off!) to test a few flavors—you might just find your new go-to