one silicone straw next to one hundred plastic straws

5 Alternatives to Single-Use Plastic Straws

Week 6

There are plenty of alternatives to the single-use plastic straw. Here are the pros and cons of five different materials. Of course, if you have any bamboo handy, you could always make your own!

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Bamboo

five bamboo straws

Pros

  • 100% Biodegradable
  • Don't conduct heat or cold
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • Hardest to clean
  • Shortest lifespan
  • Sometimes has woody aftertaste

Glass

Pros

  • Easiest to Clean/Dishwasher Safe
  • No Added Taste
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Can be added to curbside glass recycling

Cons

  • Most Breakable
  • Most Expensive
  • Conductor of Hot and Cold Liquids

Stainless Steel

Pros

  • Most Durable
  • Can Be Recycled with Metals
  • Travel Friendly

Cons

  • Temperature Sensitive
  • Difficult to clean without straw cleaner
  • More expensive than other options

Silicone

Pros

  • Flexible
  • Inexpensive
  • Once burned, silicone ash is biodegradable

Cons

  • Difficult to clean
  • As mentioned, not biodegradable without burning

Plastic

Pros

  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • Plastic never breaks down
  • Plastic toxins are harmful
  • Usually not recyclable
Letter of the Week: Ask for a "By Request Only" Straw Policy →