Cap back on right away vs Leave the cap off

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You take a sip of water, and then what happens to the bottle cap? It seems like a tiny thing, but people are surprisingly split. The cap-back-on crowd likes knowing nothing will spill in a bag and nothing will drift in from the air. The leave-it-off crowd knows they will be reaching for the bottle again in a minute, so why bother twisting it shut every time? Neither habit is strange, and which one feels natural often depends on where you are and how often you drink.

FAQ

Why do people have such different bottle cap habits?
Mostly it comes down to context and upbringing. Someone who carries a bottle around all day tends to close it, while someone sipping at a desk may not bother. Habits picked up at home or from friends also stick without much thought.
What are the advantages of putting the cap back on right away?
It keeps dust and insects out, prevents spills if the bottle tips over, and makes it safe to toss in a bag. With a fizzy drink, a closed cap also helps slow the loss of carbonation.
What are the advantages of leaving the cap off?
It saves a little effort, since you can pick up the bottle and drink with one hand. You also never have to hunt for a loose cap, which keeps things smooth while you work or study.

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