My father-in-law and I have used a 12v water heater to heat water for tea, coffee, chocolate and instant soup while traveling in Baja, and the U.S.
I was pleased when I open a Christmas present from him containing a 12v, stainless steel, coffee mug. When I open the mug I detected an extremely strong chemical order. If a fireman at a structure fire detected such an odor he would put his Scott air pack.
At home I washed it out with hot water and dish soap. The cup still produced the strong chemical odor. I next poured a mixture of hot water and baking soda in it. I let it soak for about a week. The cup still gave off the chemical odor. I have not tried any coffee in it.
Early this morning I received a call from my father-in-law asking if I had tried the cup. He had tried it after washing it with soap and water, soaking it with a vinigar-water mixture, and flushing with clear water. He could not drink the hot chocolate in it because or the chemical taste or odor. He asked if I would return it to him so that he can take mine along with his to the original seller and return it.
After Christmas I saw what appeared to be an identical unit on sale at an electronics store, but in different packaging and under a different name. I did notice that it was manufactured in China.
The manufacture does offer a warranty, but the product must be returned to them pre-paid. The cost of returning the item is almost the cost of it on sale.
More disconcerting is that on the side of the box is a picture of it being used to warm a baby bottle. I would not want this item anywhere near an infant or would I give my children or grandchildren food or drink prepared in it.
The item given to me was distributed by WAGAN Corporation, 3589 Yale Way, Fremont, CA 94538. It is listed as Item no. 2347.
