How to choose the right reusable straw for you
In case you've missed it, plastic straws are essentially no more. While some exceptions remain in place for people with disabilities, most major retailers have been banned from offering single-use plastic straws. The ban came into effect last year in New South Wales and is in progress in almost all of our other states, too.
Hating the paper alternative is a pretty popular opinion so investing in a reusable straw is a really clever idea. Here's everything you need to know about buying and owning reusable straws.
Are reusable straws actually better for the environment?
Short answer: Yes.
Plastic straws that are discarded after one use end up in landfill or dumped in the ocean, contributing to the seemingly endless amount of plastic waste we already have in our environment. This is why most Australian states have banned them, or have made moves to begin removing them entirely.
However, reusable straws will only have a positive impact on the environment if they are reused. So, we suggest investing in some good ones that you're certain you'll be happy to use every day.
How many times can you use a reusable straw?
Metal, glass, and bamboo straws can technically last a lifetime if you take good care of them and wash them often. While bamboo is probably the least durable of the three materials, any straw that's used enough times will still make up for a lifetime of single-use plastics. The choice is up to you and comes down to your cleaning practices and what material feels good to you.
To be safe and hygienic, you'll likely want to replace your reusable straws when they start to wear out, or every five or so years. But imagine not having to think about straws for a five-year period – so convenient!
How to clean reusable straws
Most reusable straws on the market will come with some kind of cleaning tool, whether it's a pipe cleaner or a small brush you can use to get inside the straw. But if for whatever reason you don't have one of these, the straws are still easy to clean.
Put a little bit of dish soap inside the straw, and closing off one end, add hot water to the inside, too. Seal off the other end with a finger and shake the straw a little to get the dishwashing liquid dispersed evenly. Then, rinse the straw and wipe down the ends with a sponge as part of your daily dishwashing efforts.
Different types of reusable straws:
We've picked out silicone, bamboo, metal and glass straws for this list, all with varying features. We've also included a reusable plastic option, which works much better and lasts much longer than the flimsy single-use ones of the past.
NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.
Frank Green 25oz Reusable Bottle Straw Pack
Frank Green is well-known when it comes to reusable products – their water bottles and coffee cups are very popular. They've released these high-quality straws to continue their earth-loving practices, giving customers the option to choose to reuse. Buy the twin pack and cleaning brush for just $15.
12pcs Reusable Silicone Straws
This super-affordable pack of silicone straws come in excellent colours, so you can coordinate them as you like in your kitchen or for your drinks. These would be great for a family who uses a lot of straws throughout the week.
Set of 5 Reusable Silicone Straws
While these cost a lot more for fewer straws than the pack above, these straws are constructed to be peeled open for easier cleaning and rolled down efficiently into a travel case to take easily on the move. If that's a worry for you, you might prefer this five-pack in order to ensure the insides of your straw stay in great shape.
10.5-Inch Rainbow Coloured Reusable Plastic Straws
While we're not advocating for single-use plastic, these durable straws will last a long time, and you can get 10 of them for just $11. They also come with a cleaning brush so you can keep them in good condition.
Zenify Bamboo Reusable Straws Set
Bamboo is another popular option for reusable straws. This set of eight 20cm straws will get plenty of use, especially with their included cleaning brush.
Reusable Stainless Steel Telescopic Straw with Silicone Tip
If you find it odd to put your mouth around a metal straw (straw-chewers will know), this set of three comes with silicone tips for better comfort when it comes to drinking. They also come with little storage containers for each, so you can pack down your straw and pop it in your bag when you're not using it.
Reusable Pink Glass Straws
Glass straws are very durable, and cost much the same as a silicone or metal set. Gentle and elegant, this set will look great with a fun, home-made drink. You can also apply a 15 per cent coupon to this set for an even lower price.
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