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It used to be that I didn’t give a second thought to the straws that came in my drinks. Now, whenever I’m handed one at a cafe or restaurant, I give them back and drink straight from the cup. Every time I see a plastic straw, I picture that well-known photograph of the poor turtle with a straw stuck in its nostril.
Alhough a disposable plastic straw may seem like a small item that doesn’t matter on a large scale, its impact on our planet is anything but minor. Just ask that poor turtle!
The Problem with Disposable Straws
Every year, billions (yes, billions) of plastic straws pollute our oceans, harm wildlife, and add to landfill waste. These seemingly harmless straws most of us grew up using are made from plastics that don’t break down, so they stick around in the environment for centuries.
Producing plastic straws also requires fossil fuels, which adds to greenhouse gas emissions and, of course, climate change.
Impact on Marine Life
Straws are a major contributor to landfill and ocean waste. Their lightweight nature makes them more likely to be carried away by the wind, so they often end up in natural habitats and waterways. The breakdown of plastic in landfills also releases harmful chemicals into the soil and water.
Disposable straws often find their way into our oceans, where they pose a threat to marine life. Animals can mistake them for food or get tangled up with them and other plastics. The breakdown of straws into microplastics further worsens the problem, because microplastics then enter the food chain and affect lots of marine species.
The Problem With Microplastics
Microplastics are tiny plastic pieces, typically less than five millimeters in length, that come from a bunch of different plastic sources. They can be primary microplastics, designed to be super small for use in products like cosmetics (microbeads) and industrial processes. Or they can be secondary microplastics, which come from the breakdown of larger plastic items like bottles, bags, and disposable straws due to sunlight, wind, and waves.
Once they’re eaten by smaller marine creatures, microplastics make their way up the food chain. These plastics and the chemicals they contain are consumed by us when we eat seafood or even sea salt (Cape Cod chips, anyone?).
So yeah, microplastics … They’re real bad news. Learn more about why tiny microplastics are a huge problem here.
Enter: The Reusable Straw
Switching to eco-friendly reusable straws is a simple yet powerful way to combat plastic pollution. Made from materials like stainless steel, silicone, and bamboo, reusable straws can last for years. By adopting reusable straws, you can reduce your plastic footprint.
Benefits of Reusable Straws
Here are a few advantages of switching to plastic-free reusable straws:
- Environmental protection: By opting for reusable straws, you can directly reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills and oceans.
- Cost-effectiveness: Over time, investing in a reusable straw can actually save you money as you won’t need to constantly buy disposable ones (assuming you’re using them at home).
- Health benefits: Many eco-friendly straws are made from non-toxic materials, such as silicone and stainless steel, which offer a safer alternative to plastics that may leach chemicals into our drinks.
7 Best Eco-Friendly Reusable Straws
Here are the best reusable straws made from non-toxic materials for the home and for travel.
1. Klean Kanteen ($12 for 4) – Best Overall Reusable Straw Set
Klean Kanteen makes my favorite reusable water bottles, tumblers, and sippy cups for toddlers out of stainless steel, so I was happy to find out that they also make these great reusable stainless steel straws. I recently purchased these for my kids to use at home, and I’ve been impressed with them.
The combination of durable metal and a comfortable silicone tip makes them easy and comfortable for kids and adults alike to drink from. My kids enjoy these eco-friendly straws’ brightly colored silicone tips (of course they’ve each claimed their own favorite by color).
The included cleaning brush is key, as other straws we’ve had that didn’t come with a brush have gotten really nasty inside over time from dried milk that you just can’t get out without a cleaning brush.
2. OXO Reusable Straws ($14 for 4) – Best for Differently Sized Cups
The OXO reusable straws are another great option for reusable stainless steel straws for anyone looking to reduce their plastic usage. These straws are incredibly easy to clean and comfortable to use, just like the Klean Kanteen straws above. They come in two different sizes, which is great if you have kids who drink out of shorter cups.
These straws also came with a cleaning brush, which you need so that they don’t become a mess on the inside. The only thing I can knock them for is that they’re not as portable as some other options. But if they’re for home use, they’re a great buy.
OXO also makes a cute collapsible straw ($10) that comes with a case for travel.
3. Zoku Pocket Straw ($12) – Best Portable Reusable Straw
The Zoku Pocket Straw is actually really clever, as far as straws go. Its telescopic design is convenient for anyone who’s on the go, and this one is especially great if you travel or go out to restaurants and cafes a lot with your kids. They make great stocking stuffers too!
At four inches when collapsed, this straw in its compact case fits easily in my purse, and the stainless steel construction feels sturdy and long-lasting. This telescoping reusable straw extends to nine inches and also comes with a silicone topper, so it’s soft on the mouth while drinking.
This straw is also a nice way to teach kids about avoiding disposable straws and making more sustainable choices when you’re eating out.
4. SipWell Stainless Steel Reusable Straws ($6 for 4) – Best Stainless Steel Budget Pick
SipWell’s stainless steel straws are another great option for reusable straws, and they’re very budget friendly. They’re resistant to rust, and cleaning them in the dishwasher is convenient.
I’ve used these for various drinks and occasions, though I switched to Klean Kanteen at some point for the silicone covers. This straw is designed to fit the 30 oz Yeti Tumbler, if that’s your reusable tumbler of choice.
Note: Though they’re great for thinner liquids, SipWell’s straws don’t work as well for thicker drinks, like smoothies and shakes.
5. Flathead Silicone Straws ($10 for 10) – Best Silicone Budget Pick
Flathead’s silicone straws are a hit in my household, especially with the kids. The soft, bendable silicone makes them safe and fun to use. They’re super durable and easy to clean with the included brush, which is a big plus.
These straws are softer than stainless steel, which can be good for kids who are teething or who tend to be straw chewers —parents, you know what I mean!
6. Softy Silicone Reusable Straws ($13 for 4) – Best for Kids
Softy Straws are another fabulous reusable straw option, especially for kids. The soft, flexible silicone is perfect for those who are concerned about dental safety or just prefer a gentler sipping experience. I’ve used them with various types of drinks, and they do exactly what they’re supposed to do.
These straws work well for thicker liquids like smoothies and shakes, unlike some of the other narrower options out there. Cleaning is easy too, thanks to the included squeegee tool. And they’re dishwasher safe too!
7. Fair Anita Sustainable Bamboo Straw Kit ($14 for 5) – Best Bamboo Straws
Reusable bamboo straws are an eco-friendly alternative to plastic. Bamboo is a super fast-growing renewable resource that requires minimal pesticides and water to grow.
These bamboo straws may not last as long as silicone or stainless steel ones, but the benefit is that they’re fully biodegradable when you ultimately throw them out.
These straws are made in Fair Trade facilities in Vietnam. They also come with a natural coconut cleaning brush.
Ditch the Plastic With Reusable Straws
The switch to reusable straws is a small step with a big impact. By choosing to reject disposable straws, you’re taking a stand against plastic pollution and joining a global movement toward more sustainable living.
For more steps you can take, check out these easy, everyday hacks for living a more sustainable life.
