Why reusable stainless steel straws are the best

Reusable straws are an amazing invention. Dentists recommend using them to help prevent tooth decay and staining, they're fun to drink from and environmentalists urge you to use them against single-use plastics.

There's no denying that stainless steel straws are the most popular straws, but what makes them the best? Here, we explore the pros and cons of all the plastic straw alternatives!

Why are people switching to reusable straws?

It's always welcome news when more and more people decide to switch from plastic straws to reusable straws. This is because people are becoming aware of the harm that plastic straws cause to the environment and want to do what they can to fight plastic pollution.

Around 8 million tonnes of plastic is thrown away every year and then ends up in our oceans, harming marine life and being ingested by humans when they eat seafood. It's no wonder so many people want to do their bit! And using reusable straws is just one small lifestyle change that can make a big impact.

What other types of reusable straws are on the market?

There are so many reusable straws on the market that plastic straws are quickly becoming redundant. It's just a matter of finding the type that works best for you based on preference. Some alternatives to plastic straws include.

- Bamboo straws

As these straws are 100% biodegradable, they are great for the environment. Organically grown bamboo straws are free from ink, dyes and BPA. they are also very durable and do not transfer heat, which means they are very safe to use for any hot drinks. In addition, they have a natural, rustic look and each straw has a different colour, shape and texture, so they are always unique.

- Glass straws

These straws are perfect for those who want a sophisticated, elegant and environmentally friendly straw. Glass straws are non-toxic, BPA-free, last a long time and are also easy to recycle. There's no need to worry about them breaking either - most glass straws are made from shatterproof glass.

- Silicone straws

Due to their durability, silicone straws are much better for our planet than plastic straws. Soft and flexible, these straws are often available in a range of colours, making them a great choice for children. And, as they do not absorb heat, they are perfect for any hot drinks.

- Stainless steel straws

Environmentally friendly and BPA-free, stainless steel straws are safe for your health and your life.

Safe for your health and the environment. As one of the most durable alternatives to plastic, these straws will always be a good choice. They also prevent any transfer of taste or smell, so you can reuse your straws for different drinks, just be sure to wash them out afterwards!

How does each option perform in terms of sustainability?

All of the above options are very sustainable options and work much better than plastic in every way. However, there are some that still outperform others. Here's how each option measures up.

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Pros.

At first glance, bamboo seems to be the best material for reusable straws. Durable, lightweight, recyclable, biodegradable and free of any nasty chemicals, there's no denying that bamboo straws are incredibly sustainable. You may be concerned about the amount of bamboo used to make them, but as bamboo is a grass, not a tree, they grow quickly, so they don't cause deforestation.

The downside is this.

Bamboo straws can easily rot and quickly become mouldy if they are not properly cared for and cleaned. They also cannot be bent, which means that people with motor difficulties cannot use them. And, as most bamboo products are made in Asia, the process of shipping them by sea has a significant impact on our carbon footprint.