[vc_row][vc_column][vc_message message_box_style=”outline” style=”round” message_box_color=”orange”]This is a post about the best plastic straw alternatives. There are affiliate links in this post. Read more in my disclosure.[/vc_message][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Replacing Plastic Straws: The Best Plastic Straw Alternatives
2018 was full of debate about plastic straws and what they mean for us in the disability community (read this one by Alice Wong to get the full scoop). Bans were passed and outcry made, to little effect. At this point now, we are looking at the end of free, readily-available plastic straws in America, as more major companies diss straws.
There are many plastic straw alternatives, ranging from metal to paper to glass, and pretty much everything in between. Let’s explore some of these.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes” kswr_row_top_decor_enabled=”false” kswr_row_bottom_decor_enabled=”false”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Kleen Kanteen Steel Straws
Kleen Kanteen has a great reputation and makes reputable products, and Kleen Kanteen Steel Straws are no exception.
These stainless steel straws have silicone tips in multiple colors and come with a cleaning brush. You can also opt for this set from Yeti which includes two full silicon straws and a pouch.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Glass Straws
I know this sounds like a terrible idea, but after reading a lot more on it, these glass straws are the ones that I personally like best for replacing plastic straws. They are shatter resistant, BPA free, after-taste free, non-toxic, etc. You can clean them in the dishwasher, but these straws also come with a little cleaner (and pouch).[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Nature’s Straw
Nature’s Straw are made 100% from wheat.
They are strong, eminently biodegradable. Hay! Straws are right up this alley, being made from 100% hay. They are great disposable plastic straw alternatives – although I don’t think Nature’s Straw would be fantastic for someone with gluten sensitivity.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Bamboo Straws
These kind of trip me out.
They are made out of real little bamboo reeds. They come in a wide range of sizes – I liked NaturalNeo because they have a set of 10 with various sizes (and comes with cleaner and pouch).[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Silicone Straws
I love the texture of these.
The Hiware Reusable Silicone Drinking Straws come in various sizes, with a cleaning brush and are vibrant and colorful – fun! You can get them in kits of 8 or more straws, and I think for a lot of people, they’ll be the best last straw alternative, given the popularity of silicone.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Paper Straws
Admittedly my least favorite alternative to plastic straws, paper straws have come a long way. They are now available in a plethora of fun colors like these ones from BlueBox Goods.
There are dye-free options available too, like these from World Brand.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Titanium Straws
I had to put this in because…titanium straws!!! How cool does that sound?! I mean, it sounds like they could life your car up for a wheel change or something, right?
Like the other alternatives to plastic straws, they are colorful, come with a cleaning brush and case and look like fun to use.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Some of These Might Work…
….But none of them might either.
I have to point that out, because for some people with certain disabilities, plastic straws are the only option. For others who have the luxury of having a little more flexibility in the straw area, one or more of these options should work for you. I’d love to hear back on what does, what doesn’t, and if you find something else that works exceptionally well.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Meriah Nichols is a counselor. Solo mom to 3 (one with Down syndrome, one on the spectrum). Deaf, and neurodiverse herself, she’s a gardening nerd who loves cats, Star Trek, and takes her coffee hot and black.
Love the article…a little disappointed that you used our picture as well as our name Nature’s Straw only to recommend hay! Straws and not ours Lol but hey keep up the great work!
Sincerely,
The founder of Nature’s straw by Earthalign.
My apologies for the last messege I did not notice that natures straw was also a link to our listing. Thank you for the support ? if you send us your address we would love to send you a free box.
Here’s another great alternative to add to your list: http://www.drinkwithstyle.net