Stainless steel straws are fantastic eco-friendly alternatives to plastic ones, but their maintenance is important to ensure safety and longevity. Some sources claim that washing them with hot water or using a dishwasher is sufficient for cleaning. However, our recent experiment has shown otherwise. We discovered that even after multiple cycles through the dishwasher and rinsing with hot water, our stainless steel straws still had residue and gunk clinging to them.

Here's why you should never skip using a cleaning brush with your stainless steel straws:

 

Residue Accumulation

Stainless steel straws can develop a thin film of residue on both the inside and outside surfaces. This residue might not be immediately visible, but over time, it can accumulate and become a breeding ground for bacteria.

 

Hygiene Concerns

Inadequately cleaned straws pose hygiene risks. Bacteria can thrive in the small crevices and corners of the straws.

 

Longevity

Properly cleaning your stainless steel straws ensures they maintain their pristine appearance and functionality. Neglecting cleaning may lead to dis-coloration, rust, or even pitting of the metal.

 

Environmental Impact

The whole point of using stainless steel straws is to reduce single-use plastic waste. However, if they aren't cleaned and maintained, you might end up discarding them prematurely, which defeats the purpose of their eco-friendly nature!

So please use the cleaning brush packed in your set of straws! You can also buy replacement cleaning brushes for both regular sized and smoothie straws on our website. 

So, while stainless steel straws are a fantastic choice for reducing plastic waste, proper cleaning is important! Use the brush regularly to keep your stainless steel straws in tip top condition.