Paper straws, bamboo straws, glass straws, stainless steel straws, PLA straws, silicon straws, pasta straws, so so many alternatives to normal polypropylene straws. But which one works best for you? Here are all the pros and cons to help you make an educated choice about what type you should purchase.
1) STAINLESS STEEL STRAWS
Stainless steel straws and the most durable and long lasting. One set can last you years!
However, cleaning these straws are not easy as you have to use a separate tool and
cannot see the inside. Thick drinks may get stuck inside. Because these are harder
straws, they are not ideal for children or the elderly as there is a risk of chipping a tooth if
not careful. This option gets either hot or cold depending on the drink so is not a good
option for those with sensitive teeth. They are dishwasher safe. This option may affect
the taste of the beverage.
2) BAMBOO STRAWS
This option is biodegradable and cost effective. Because of the nature of the material,
they do not have a long lifespan as they can attract bacteria. This is the hardest to clean
of all the options listed here because it is not dishwasher sage and because of the grainy
material. This option may also affect the taste of your drink.
3) GLASS STRAWS
This option is dishwasher safe and is fairly easy to clean by hand as you can see the
inside. The downside is, if you drop them, they break! This option is also more on the
expensive side, though they can last a long time.
4) PASTA STRAWS
They are made with only two completely natural ingredients, wheat and water. They do
not affect the taste of the drink and can hold up in a liquid fro 3+ hours. These straws are
not readily available yet. You must buy them in bulk online if this is your desired option.
5) SILICON STRAWS
These straws are flexible and soft. They can be difficult to clean if you cannot see the
inside, but transparent options are available. They are not as long lasting as the stainless
steel option, but are safe to keep in your backpack/purse without breaking and bending.
This is a great option for children and the elderly as there is no risk of chipping a tooth.
This option can be used in hot or cold drinks. Silicon straws are not biodegradable
6) PAPER STRAWS
The classic alternative! This option in conveniently compostable and readily available at
most grocery stores for an affordable price. However, if you leave them in your drink for
too long they become soggy.
7) PLA STRAWS
If you want to keep to feel of a normal straw, PLA (polyacetic acid) straws are for you!
They are compostable, but still strong like traditional plastic. They cannot be used in
hot drinks as they will start to fall apart. This is a more expensive option.
8) STRAW STRAWS
This option is made out of wheat and other grasses. It is 100% natural and 100%
biodegradable. They cost more than other alternatives and they are not quite as durable
as a PLA straw or pasta straw. . They are not readily avialable in grocery stores yet.
9) GO NOSTRAW
This last option may seem obvious, but if you do not need a straw in your drink, why use
one! It is the most cost effective option, the most eco-friendly option, and the option
which requires the least cleaning.
So, the verdict? Going NoStraw is the best, but if you need a straw...
Most DURABLE: Stainlees Steel Straw
Most COST EFFECTIVE: Paper Straws
Easiest to CLEAN: Glass Straws or Transparent Silicon Straws
Based off the pros and cons above. The best reusable option is probably a transparent silicon straw. They are easy to clean, last long, and are readily available for a reasonable price in many grocery stores.
We hope this blog post helped you find the perfect fit for your eco-friendly straw!