Choosing a reusable straw is much more than just finding the most colorful option. There are a few factors to look out for when buying.
Now that we’ve hooked you up with some reliable reusable straws to buy, we have also highlighted some important factors to consider in this section. That way, you can choose the one that best suits your needs!
How to Choose Reusable Straws
Straw Material
There are several materials available for reusable straws, and they all have their pros and cons. Check out these eco-friendly straw materials!
Silicone
This material is bendy and can be compressed easily for carrying. Silicone straws can be difficult to insert into plastic cups or narrow bottles due to their flexibility.
Stainless steel
Metallic reusable straws maintain their shape even after repeated use. A few reviewers noticed an aftertaste of metal with certain styles, particularly when drinking water.
Glass
Compared to other materials, it is easier to clean transparent reusable straws. However, they are more fragile and prone to breaking.
Hard plastic
Reusable straws made of hard plastic tend to last less than other materials, but they are the most affordable.
Bamboo
Unlike plastic, glass, steel, and silicone, it’s made from plants. However, they degrade faster than other materials.
Titanium
Although titanium is the most expensive of this lot, the benefits outweigh the price. With a reusable straw made of titanium, you’re less likely to experience tongue or lips scalding.
This is because titanium does not conduct heat like stainless steel, meaning less stress on your teeth and no metallic taste commonly observed in stainless steel straws.
Purpose
A reusable straw requires you to determine which kind of beverage you want to use it with. When you drink milk tea, smoothies, or pearl shakes frequently. A larger straw will come in handy.
You will need a wider, firmer straw, for instance, if you plan to drink smoothies. Additionally, if you plan to use the straw for both hot and cold beverages, you should make sure it can handle both!
Straw Size
Standard straw lengths range from 8.5” to 10.5”. If you are buying one, choose one that fits the hole in your tumbler as well as the tumbler’s height. Ensure that the straw’s diameter is appropriate before purchasing. Juices and soda may be the only drinks they can be used for.
Case
The essence of reusable straws is for you to have them available at all times. Thus, it is only appropriate that you have a case for transporting them around. The shape and form of the case depend on the nature of the straw itself.
For instance, a bendable straw may come with a case just about the same size as an AirPods case, while some have slim cases that look like a pen. Ultimately you should select the one that is most convenient for you to carry around.
Maintenance
You have to take extra steps to drink from a reusable straw. The whole purpose of a reusable straw is that you can use it over and again whenever you need it. So, you need to clean and sanitize your reusable straw instead of throwing it out in the trash after use.
Consider a reusable straw that comes with a cleaning brush or squeegee so that residue can be easily wiped away between uses. For easy cleaning, some reusable straws are designed to be dishwasher-safe. Wash your reusable straws in warm water and dish soap after each use if they haven’t been previously washed.
For easy cleaning, we recommend investing in a straw cleaner if your straw does not come with one. Rinse and re-use the straw after scrubbing the inside and outside.
Safety
Safety is the top concern when choosing a reusable straw for your family, especially if you have young children. Be sure to read the product summary instead of relying solely on images or your judgment, so you’re certain about knowing what to expect. It is good to check out customer reviews to know how well the straw performs.
Other Features
The design of the product may be another factor you should be considering. Are you looking for a straight or slightly bent straw?
Would a metal straw with a slightly rounded tip work if your teeth were sensitive? Once you can answer these questions, you are less likely to regret your choice because you have all angles covered!
How To Clean Reusable Straws
The easiest way to clean reusable straws is with brushes. You can also adopt the use of pipe cleaners in place of brushes if they are not readily available. Before storing, wash with hot water, drain upright, and dry completely.
