How to clean metal straws in 5 steps

For those looking to make more sustainable lifestyle choices, reusable metal straws are the way to go as they produce less waste and are better for the environment.

If you already have metal straws, or are looking for some, and we recommend using our excellent, high quality stainless steel straws, then you may be wondering what the best way to clean them properly is. Well, read on, we have everything you need to know about cleaning reusable straws here.

Why you should keep your straws clean

You might be surprised at how much gunk and bacteria has accumulated in the metal straws from previous drinks. A quick rinse with water is not enough to keep straws free from mould and food particles, they need to be properly cleaned and sanitised to prevent any potentially harmful germs. Of course, you want your metal straws to last as long as possible to help combat plastic contamination, so washing them regularly is a must!

In an ideal world, your straws should be cleaned after every use, depending on what you are using them for. For example, if you use your straws to make fruit smoothies, they should be washed almost immediately after use to remove any leftover food and drink from the straw before they become hard and sticky. However, if you only use the straw for drinking, then it can be cleaned at the end of each day.

The best way to clean metal straws: 5 steps

The best and easiest way to clean reusable metal straws is to clean them by hand with a pipe cleaner or brush. Most metal straws have their own cleaning brush that is specifically designed to clean them, which makes the cleaning process much quicker.

First, you need to rinse the straws out with hot soapy water.

Then, you also need to wet the straw cleaning brush with hot soapy water.

Once the brush is soaked in the soapy water, push it back and forth into the straw to clean it. If you've had a smoothie, you may need to do this a few times to make sure the remnants of the drink are completely gone.

Don't forget to clean the outside of the straw with a brush.

Once you are sure the straw has been properly cleaned, rinse it with hot soap and water and then set it aside to air dry.

Can you wash straws in the dishwasher?

Yes, technically you can clean straws in the dishwasher, but it won't be as clean as washing them by hand. This is because while the dishwasher does a good job of cleaning the outside, it can't get inside to scrub and sanitise, especially if it has a curved neck, which is what is needed for a thorough cleaning.

Tips for cleaning straws more hygienically in the dishwasher

If you still want to clean the straw in the dishwasher, we recommend giving it a proper wash with a brush beforehand to make sure it is sterilised and free of bacteria inside. Then, place the straw in the utensil basket section of the dishwasher and run it as usual to achieve a squeaky clean outside of the straw. At the end of the cycle, remove the straws and allow them to air dry before storing them away.