Alternatives to disposable plastic straws are ideal, to stop single-use plastic straws falling down storm drains, where they harm marine creatures, once they reach the sea. Some people need to use disposable straws for medical reasons, but there are better options like paper or silicone. Only use with cold drinks (to avoid burning your tongue).
Stroodles are drinking straws made from pasta, you can eat after use! They store up to 2 years, and last an hour in your drink, before biodegrading (unless you cook them up for dinner). The company say they are suitable for children over 3 (supervise). Not for gluten allergies.
Silicone Drinking Straws
Silicone Drinking Straws are made from sand and fossil fuels, so not perfect. But they are as close to plastic, and last for years (unlike conventional plastic that breaks down into millions of pieces). Sold in an organic cotton pouch with an ethically-made straw cleaner. Cheeky Elephant’s Silicone Straws include a case.
Bamboo Drinking Straws
Drinking straws made from bamboo are made from a fast-growing grass industrial bamboo is not eaten by pandas). Dry these properly, or they will biodegrade away! Choose from Go Bambu (above), Panda Bamboo Straws (sets of 6 or 12), Organically Epic (sold with a cleaning straw), Eco Bru (single straws) or Shlurple (single-use).
Stainless Steel Drinking Straws
Stainless steel does not bend, so don’t use on the move, nor for children or disabilities. Do not use on cups with lids, and do not remove from cups, when not in use).
Sucka makes colourful reusable metal straws, all dishwasher-friendly. Ideal for smoothies, shakes and tall cocktails.
This Extendable Drinking Straw (with case) has a telescopic cleaning brush (pull a few times through after each use). Includes a removable silicone comfort tip.
Shlurple Collapsible Drinking Straw folds down after use and has a silicone inner. In green or pink, sold in a wheat box, with optional cutlery set.
Paper Drinking Straws
These paper drinking straws for parties are sold in many designs (including custom). Unlike most imported paper straws, these don’t have glue with microplastics. Millions of people use disposable straws, so at least let’s make them made with biodegradable paper.
