The Chako Lab Water Tumbler Craze – Why Gen Z Is All Over It

Move over plastic bottles, there’s a new hydration hero in town – and it’s got style, weight, and a price tag to match. I’m talking about the now-trending Chako Lab water tumblers, which have officially taken over the bags and desks of Gen Z university students – including my daughter Alycia.

Alycia recently jumped on the Chako Lab bandwagon, proudly bringing home her new Bawang tumbler. My first reaction? “Aiyo, this cup so big and heavy!” But I have to admit – it’s undeniably cute. With its oversized cup shape and straw, it’s like a cartoonish version of a bubble tea cup, but make it aesthetic. The name Bawang (which means onion in Malay) even gives it that cheeky local flair.

What really stands out about these tumblers is their design. The color palette? Gorgeous. Soft pastels, muted earth tones, and vibrant hues – there’s something for everyone. Chako Lab definitely knows how to appeal to young adults who love anything minimalistic, quirky, and social-media worthy. It’s no wonder Alycia told me almost all her uni mates have one too. It’s more than just a water bottle – it’s a fashion statement.

Of course, with trendiness comes a price. Alycia’s Bawang tumbler set her back a whopping RM139.90. My inner auntie gasped a little when I heard that. RM139.90 for a water tumbler? That’s not pocket change! But then again, when something becomes a must-have on TikTok and Instagram, value becomes more about status and less about cost.

Still, to give credit where it’s due, there are practical benefits. The Chako Lab tumbler is a thermos, which means it keeps drinks hot or cold for hours. And since the interior is made from stainless steel, it’s a far healthier option compared to plastic tumblers like her old Bros bottle. No microplastics, no weird smells – just clean sips all day.

That said, I personally find it a bit too heavy to lug around all day. As a mom who’s constantly multitasking, I’d prefer something lighter. But I get it – these tumblers aren’t made for aunties like me. They’re for Gen Zs who want to make a statement, stay hydrated, and look good doing it.

So will I be getting one for myself? Of course not! I don’t even bring a tumbler with me when I go out. I drink all my liquid quota for the day at home and drink very little when I’m out and about as I hate using public loos. But I can’t deny that Chako Lab has nailed the formula: cute, functional, trendy, and totally Gen Z-approved.