If you’ve been on the fence about getting a home soda maker, let me make it simple for you: you need to check out Simpli Soda. I was tired of lugging plastic bottles from the store and wanted a healthier, more sustainable way to get my fizzy fix.
After weeks of research and testing, I can confidently say this machine has completely changed my hydration habits for the better. It’s sleek, incredibly easy to use, and delivers perfectly carbonated water every single time.
Honestly, if you love sparkling water, this is the gadget you’ve been waiting for.
My Experience With Simpli Soda
Let me walk you through my journey with the Simpli Soda machine.
The moment I unboxed it, I was struck by its minimalist design.
It’s got this chic, matte finish that looked fantastic on my kitchen counter, immediately upgrading the space from “cluttered” to “curated.”
There were no complicated instructions or a million tiny parts to assemble.
It was refreshingly straightforward: screw in the CO₂ canister, fill the provided bottle with cold water, and pop it into the machine. The whole setup process took me less than two minutes.
My first press was tentative. I gave the carbonation button a short, one-second push. A satisfying psssshht sound filled the kitchen, and I saw a cascade of tiny bubbles instantly infuse the water. I took a sip, and it was lightly sparkling—perfect for a gentle morning fizz.
This is where the magic really started for me. The control you have is phenomenal. For my afternoon pick-me-up, I wanted something with more of a kick.
I held the button down for three short bursts, and the result was an intensely fizzy, almost aggressive carbonation that rivaled my favorite store-bought mineral water. You get to be the master of your own bubbles.
Over the next few weeks, Simpli Soda became a core part of my daily routine. I started experimenting. I’d infuse water with slices of lime and mint before carbonating, creating my own mojito-inspired mocktail. I made sparkling iced tea, which was a total game-changer on hot afternoons.
My water intake skyrocketed because, let’s face it, bubbly water is just more fun to drink. I also felt a genuine sense of satisfaction every time I refilled my reusable bottle, knowing I was avoiding another plastic bottle from ending up in a landfill.
It’s a small change, but it feels significant. It’s more than just a kitchen appliance; it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
Also Read: How SodaStream Terra Is Better Than Fizzi?
The Upsides: Why I’m Hooked on Simpli Soda?
After spending considerable time with my Simpli Soda, I’ve pinpointed exactly what makes it stand out. It’s not just about making bubbly water; it’s about how it integrates into your life and improves your daily habits.
- Unmatched Ease of Use
I can’t stress this enough: the machine is brilliantly simple. There are no electronics, no plugs, and no batteries.
It’s a purely mechanical system, which I love because it means fewer things can go wrong.
The bottle snaps into place with a gentle twist, and the carbonation process is controlled by a single button on top.
You press it until you hear a specific buzzing sound, which indicates the water is fully carbonated.
There’s no guesswork involved. This simplicity makes it approachable for everyone in the family. My kids can safely use it to make their own fizzy drinks (with supervision, of course), and I don’t have to worry about complex settings or digital menus. It’s a perfect example of thoughtful, user-centric design.
- Superior Carbonation Control
This is where Simpli Soda truly shines for me. Other machines I’ve considered often have preset carbonation levels—low, medium, high. But what if your “medium” isn’t my “medium”? Simpli Soda gives you complete analog control.
You decide how many times you press the button and for how long. A quick, one-second press gives you a light effervescence, similar to a fancy Italian mineral water. If you’re like me and you enjoy a strong, almost-burns-your-throat level of fizz, you can give it three or four short, sharp presses.
This level of customization is fantastic. You can tailor every single bottle to your exact preference at that moment, whether you’re making a gentle sparkling water for sipping or a super-bubbly base for a cocktail.
- Elegant and Sustainable Design
Let’s be honest, kitchen counter space is prime real estate. The last thing you want is another bulky, ugly appliance. The Simpli Soda is sleek, modern, and has a very small footprint. Its minimalist aesthetic, available in several neutral colors, blends seamlessly into any kitchen decor.
But it’s not just about looks. The entire system is built around sustainability. The machine itself is durable and made from high-quality materials. The reusable, BPA-free bottles are sturdy and designed for long-term use, drastically cutting down on single-use plastic waste.
Every time I make a bottle of sparkling water, I get a little jolt of satisfaction knowing I’ve saved another plastic bottle from the recycling bin or, worse, the ocean. It’s a purchase that feels good both practically and ethically.
The Downsides: A Few Things to Consider
No product is perfect, and the Simpli Soda is no exception. While my overall experience has been overwhelmingly positive, there are a few drawbacks you should be aware of before you commit.
- Proprietary CO₂ Canisters
One of the most significant limitations is that Simpli Soda is designed to work exclusively with its own branded CO₂ canisters.
This means you can’t just pick up a generic or SodaStream-compatible canister from any store.
You’re locked into their ecosystem for refills.
While their exchange program is fairly convenient, it does limit your options and can sometimes be a bit more expensive than third-party alternatives.
This lack of cross-compatibility is a definite consideration if you value flexibility and competitive pricing for consumables.
- The Bottle Material
The standard bottles that come with the machine are made of high-quality, BPA-free plastic. They work great, but I personally have a preference for glass bottles. Plastic can, over time, retain faint odors or flavors if you’re carbonating things other than plain water.
While Simpli Soda does an excellent job, and I haven’t had major issues, the option for a glass carafe would be a welcome upgrade for purists who want the cleanest possible taste. Currently, that’s not an option they offer.
- Manual Operation Isn’t for Everyone
I listed the manual, no-electricity-needed design as a pro, but for some, it might be a con. If you’re used to one-touch, automated appliances, the need to manually press a button multiple times and listen for an audio cue might feel a bit primitive.
There’s a slight physical effort involved. It’s minimal, but if you have arthritis or limited hand strength, it’s something to think about. An automated, press-it-and-forget-it model might be more suitable for some users.
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Tips For Your Simpli Soda
To keep your Simpli Soda working perfectly and ensure every glass is fresh and delicious, a little bit of care goes a long way. I’ve developed a routine that keeps my machine in top-notch condition, and it’s incredibly simple to follow.
Taking these small steps will guarantee you get the most out of your investment for years to come.
- Keeping Your Bottles Squeaky Clean
This is the most crucial part of your maintenance routine. You should be cleaning your carbonating bottles regularly, ideally after every few uses, especially if you’re adding flavors directly to the water.
Never, ever put the bottles in the dishwasher unless they are explicitly marked as dishwasher-safe (check the latest models, as this can change). The high heat can warp the plastic and compromise the pressure seal, which is both ineffective and unsafe.
My go-to method is simple: a few drops of mild dish soap and warm water. Fill the bottle about halfway, screw on the cap, and give it a vigorous shake for 30 seconds. Then, use a bottle brush to get into all the nooks and crannies, especially around the neck and base.
Rinse it thoroughly with clean water until there are no soap suds left. The most important final step is to let it air dry completely upside down on a drying rack. Trapped moisture can lead to unpleasant smells, so ensuring it’s bone dry before its next use is key.
- Caring for the Machine Itself
The Simpli Soda machine requires very little maintenance, which is one of its best features. Since it has no electrical components, you don’t have to worry about complex cleaning procedures. To keep it looking pristine, simply wipe down the exterior with a soft, damp cloth.
If you get any sticky splashes from flavored syrups, use a cloth with a bit of soapy water and then wipe it again with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue. Pay special attention to the nozzle where the carbonation is injected and the area where the bottle snaps in.
A quick wipe-down once a week is all it takes to keep it looking brand new. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the machine’s beautiful finish.
- Pro Tips for the Best Bubbles
Through trial and error, I’ve discovered a few tricks to get the absolute best carbonation. First, always use very cold water. The colder the water, the better it absorbs and holds the CO2. I keep a bottle or two of filtered water in the fridge at all times, ready to go.
Second, don’t fill the bottle past the designated fill line. This headspace is essential for the carbonation process to work effectively and safely. Finally, if you’re adding flavors, it’s almost always better to add them after you carbonate the water.
Carbonating liquids with sugar, syrups, or pulp can create a fizzy mess and can even clog the machine’s nozzle over time. Carbonate the plain, cold water first, then gently stir in your flavorings.
Comparison Simpli Soda With Other Brands
When you’re looking for a soda maker, Simpli Soda isn’t the only name that comes up. Let’s see how it stacks up against some of the other major players in the market.
- Simpli Soda Vs. SodaStream
SodaStream is undoubtedly the most recognized name in the home carbonation space.
Their biggest advantage is accessibility; you can find their machines and CO₂ canisters in almost any major retail store.
This widespread availability gives them a huge edge in convenience for canister exchanges.
However, where I feel Simpli Soda pulls ahead is in its design and build quality.
Many SodaStream models feel a bit plasticky and utilitarian, whereas the Simpli Soda has a premium, countertop-worthy aesthetic.
Furthermore, the manual, pressure-based carbonation control on the Simpli Soda feels more precise and satisfying to me than the preset electronic buttons on many popular SodaStream models like the Fizzi or the One Touch.
- Simpli Soda Vs. Aarke
Aarke is the other major competitor in the high-end, design-focused category.
The Aarke Carbonator is a beautiful piece of engineering, crafted from a single piece of stainless steel.
In terms of pure aesthetics, it’s a very close race, and your preference might come down to personal taste.
Aarke’s main advantage is its compatibility with standard SodaStream CO₂ canisters, giving you more flexibility for refills.
However, the Aarke often comes with a significantly higher price tag.
I found the Simpli Soda to offer a comparable premium experience and build quality at a more accessible price point. The push-button mechanism on the Simpli Soda also feels a bit more intuitive to me than the lever system on the Aarke.
Simpli Soda strikes a perfect balance between premium design and practical value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, Simpli Soda is designed as a closed-system and only works with its own proprietary CO₂ canisters. You cannot use SodaStream or other third-party canisters with the Simpli Soda machine, and vice-versa. You will need to use their canister exchange program for refills.
Simpli Soda works on a simple mechanical principle. When you press the button on top of the machine, it mechanically opens a valve on the attached CO₂ canister. This releases pressurized carbon dioxide gas through a nozzle directly into the water in the sealed bottle. The pressure forces the CO2 to dissolve into the water, creating carbonic acid, which is what gives the water its fizz. You control the level of carbonation by how long and how many times you press the button.
Simpli Soda itself, the machine and the carbonated water it produces, contains zero sugar, zero calories, and zero sweeteners. It is simply carbonated water. The sugar content of your final drink depends entirely on what you add to the water after carbonating it. If you add their branded flavor syrups, you would need to check the nutritional information on the specific flavor bottle, as they offer both regular and zero-sugar options.
Simpli Soda machines are designed in Scandinavia, which is reflected in their minimalist and functional aesthetic. However, like most modern consumer electronics and appliances, the final assembly and manufacturing of the components are done in China to maintain competitive pricing.
Wrapping Up
I wholeheartedly recommend giving Simpli Soda a try. It’s a beautifully designed, incredibly effective machine that makes staying hydrated a joy rather than a chore. It has earned a permanent spot on my kitchen counter, and the money I’ve saved on store-bought sparkling water has been a fantastic bonus.
The positive environmental impact of ditching single-use plastic bottles is the cherry on top. If you’re ready to take control of your carbonation and elevate your daily water intake, this is the perfect way to do it.