Most of us know we should be drinking more water. But in the flow of a productive workday, whether it’s collaborating with teammates, moving between meetings, or diving into projects, hydration very often takes a back seat.
I’m sure every one of us has felt that surge of guilt during a check-up with the doc when they ask if we think we drink enough water; a shuddering feeling.
That’s why so many offices rely on water coolers. Simple, reliable, always there. But the real question is: Do they actually work? Do they make people drink more water?
Turns out, they kind of do. But there’s a twist…
The Psychology of the Water Cooler
That’s a pretty enticing, dramatic title; don’t you think?
Water coolers are more than just hydration stations. In many offices, they double as unofficial break spots, social zones, or even tiny moments of peace. Walking over for a quick refill gives people a reason to step away from their screens, reset their posture, and maybe even catch up with a colleague.
And visibility plays a huge role. When a water cooler is front and center, in a hallway, near a meeting room, or by the kitchen, it's a visual cue. Just seeing it can remind someone to top up their glass. Out of sight really does mean out of mind, especially when it comes to habits like drinking water.
So Why Are Employees Still Dehydrated?
Here’s the thing: most people start the day with good intentions. But then the glass sits there. Barely touched. Maybe it’s been filled once, maybe twice, and then forgotten.
It’s not laziness. It’s just... plain water fatigue.
Let’s be real. Water is essential, but it’s not exciting. When you’re looking for a pick-me-up or something to break the monotony of a long workday, plain water rarely scratches that itch.
And that’s the hidden flaw in traditional water coolers. They're helpful, yes. But they only go so far when the experience feels, well, kind of boring.
The Flavored Water Effect
That’s where flavored water coolers come in.
Think of them as the glow-up of the office water cooler. Still refreshing. Still healthy. But now? They're fun. They’re craveable. They actually make you want to refill your bottle again and again.
By offering a variety of flavors, I’m talking lemon, mango guava, peach, even sparkling options; flavored water turns hydration into something people look forward to. It’s a small change, but it completely changes the experience.
And when hydration becomes something enjoyable instead of just necessary, behavior shifts. People drink more water without even trying. Which means better focus, more energy, and fewer of those mid-afternoon slumps.
Plus, some flavored options even come with added benefits, like B vitamins or natural antioxidants. So it’s not just about taste. It’s about supporting overall well-being in a way that doesn’t feel forced or preachy.
From Hydration Hack to Office Culture Booster
Let’s zoom out for a second. A water cooler—flavored or not—isn’t just about hydration. It’s about the kind of workplace you’re trying to build.
When you offer great-tasting, easy-access water, you’re sending a message: “We care about how you feel here.” It becomes part of your office culture. One of those small, thoughtful details that makes people feel supported.
You start to notice it in the way people gather around the dispenser for a quick chat. Or how someone tries a new flavor and recommends it to their desk neighbor. It’s a simple perk that somehow manages to be functional, social, and health-forward all at once.
So, What’s Next? Meet Aquablu
This is where Aquablu comes in.
We took everything good about the classic office water cooler—convenience, reliability, hydration—and gave it a serious upgrade. Our system offers fresh, filtered, and flavored water that’s sugar-free, sustainable, and seriously good.
We’ve got flavors like blackcurrant & açaí (with a little green tea and hibiscus in the mix), plus refreshing classics like lemon, lime, and ginger. You can go still or sparkling. And if you’re feeling fancy, you can switch it up throughout the day. No extra bottles. No sugary shortcuts. Just better water, straight from the tap.
And it’s not just about the hydration boost. Offices that bring in Aquablu see real engagement. Employees use it. They talk about it. They appreciate it. Because when something tastes great and makes you feel good, it becomes more than a utility—it becomes a highlight of the day.
The Future is Hydrated (and Gen Z is Leading the Charge)
If hydration is the secret sauce of a great workplace, then Gen Z is about to keep the tap flowing for decades. They’re entering the workforce now, and they’ll be the ones refilling their bottles, exploring new flavors, and shaping office culture for the next 40 years.
They care about well-being, expect more from their work environments, and yes—they're the generation most likely to have hydration goals in their Notes app.
So if you’re thinking about the future of the workplace (and how to make it more energizing, engaging, and, well, hydrated), start here.
📘 Download our free eBook: Gen Z 101 – Gen Z Insights Businesses Need to Know
Use the form below to grab your copy and find out what this generation really wants from their work experience.
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