We have really put this one through the test and it has held up. I was worried when I used it the first time that our hot cocoa lost temperature too easily. However, I took the week to test it and realized that it really does need to be preheated to be able to get the best functionality out of it. We now fill ours with hot water 1 hour before we need to fill it. We put the lid on it and let it set. Then we dump out the water and put in our hot beverages and they stay hot for several hours. Probably like 6 to 7 hours maybe even 8. Great functionality. Works like a charm. We haven't had it that long so I can't say anything about durability over the long term. We have had no leakage and the seal that goes around the edge of the top is very secure. I don't think it holds a entire 5 gallons. I would say it's more like four and a third gallons. It's still worth it though. We just use the shower attachment in our tub to clean it out with soap and a brush. We have had no problems keeping it clean. We are so glad that we made this investment.