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The Spruce Eats / Lecia Landis
Reusable straws are commonplace now, with people using them at restaurants, coffee shops, drive-throughs, and at home as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic. Available in stainless steel, bamboo, silicone, glass, and more, the material and size you need may vary depending on the type and temperature of your beverage. Furthermore, certain options are better for travel, while others are more suitable for kids. And, of course, some straws just perform better than others.
To help you pick the best reusable straws for your household, we tested them side-by-side and evaluated each on comfort, design, ease of cleaning, and overall value. Lots of liquids were sipped—including both hot and warm, thin and thick—to make sure that the reusable straws on this list are truly the best.
Best Overall
ALINK Stainless Steel Straws
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Courtesy of Amazon
Works with a variety of tumblers
Inexpensive
Color-coded silicone tips
Durable
Too narrow for smoothies and shakes
Stainless steel straws are durable, reusable, and prevent the transfer of tastes and smells—making them a great all-around choice. This set from Alink stood up in testing to earn our overall best spot. With stainless steel, your straw won’t taste like iced coffee after you wash it and sip orange juice through the same straw later that day. Likewise, the straw was never too hot to touch or drink while testing.
This particular set includes eight straws—four straight and four bent—which during testing, proved to be too narrow in diameter for thicker beverages like a shake but worked well for everything else. As an eco-friendly alternative to disposable straws that come with juice boxes or pouches, they work superbly. There are also eight removable silicone tips, providing a soft covering on the top of the straw to protect your lips and teeth. These tips are also different colors, which can be used as a beverage identifier, preventing glasses from getting mixed up among family members or during a dinner party.
The straws are also 10.5 inches tall, making them long enough to become a handy accessory for many sport water bottles or large to-go mugs. Unlike most of the other products on this list, this set comes with an additional cleaning brush—a nice added bonus.
Price at time of publish: $7
Material: Stainless steel, silicone | Length: 10.5 inches | What’s Included: 8 straight and bent metal straws, 2 extra-long brushes, carrying case
"I like how there are different color tips, which can be used as an identifier as to whose drink is whose in a household or during a dinner party, etc."
Best Collapsible
FinalStraw Collapsible Reusable Metal Straw
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Courtesy of Final
For use with hot or cold drinks
Durable travel case
Easy to clean
Pricey compared to other brands
Too narrow for thick beverages
Portable reusable straws have recently received considerable attention for their convenience. They are compact, durable, and travel well. FinalStraw is known as the original reusable, collapsible straw—and is specifically designed for use with hot and cold beverages. We loved how this straw "muted" the temperature of what we were drinking (in a good way) in regard to outside touch.
It is also quite easy to clean, especially while on the go, thanks to the mini cleaning brush that is conveniently stored inside the straw’s travel container. Due to the durability of the outside case, the straw can be taken along to the gym, cinema, school, and a plethora of other places stashed in a purse or backpack or simply attached to a keychain. However, one minor drawback to its compact size that we noticed was that the openings at both ends are a bit too narrow to comfortably drink thicker shakes or smoothies.
The outer material of the straw is made of stainless steel, and the inner is made of platinum silicone. Fully extended, it measures 23 centimeters long (an appropriate length for most glasses, mason jars, and to-go mugs). Then, it can be re-folded to fit in its 7-centimeter case that weighs only 1.8 ounces.
Price at time of publish: $20
Material: Food-grade silicone, stainless steel | Length: 9 inches | What’s Included: One straw, a cleaning squeegee tool, and a carrying case
"I really like how the travel case for this straw is designed. I took it along to a movie theater, yoga class, etc. I had no worries about it getting dirty while in transport prior to use because of how well-protected (enclosed) the straw is."
Best Portable
Flyby Portable Reusable Drinking Straw
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Courtesy of Amazon
Foldable
Compatible with 12- to 40-ounce cups
Fun color options
Will heat up with hot beverages
It's no secret that great strides have been made in the reusable straw realm. From glass and silicone to biodegradable and paper, there is a wide selection of reusable straws available to meet just about every preference. And this functional, affordable, and stylish straw is a great example.
Available in nine colors, the Flyby stainless steel straw is sure to draw the eye of anyone who sees it dangling from your bag. Besides looking sleek, it is portable and collapses to fit inside an equally eye-catching keychain that measures only 6 x 0.5 inches, transforming this straw into a very useful and fashionable travel accessory. The included mini brush also makes the straw quick and easy to clean while in transit.
Each portable reusable straw has a silicone tip and can expand out to three different sizes for various cups, including 12, 20, and 30 ounces. At its full extension, it measures 9 inches long, accommodating cups, mugs, and bottles up to 40 ounces. Essentially, the straw's size fits well not only in standard glasses but also into reusable cups with lids, aluminum cans, and large tumblers. We found that when it comes to warm beverages, it is best not to insert the straw into the container until right before drinking. The outside of the straw will start to heat up the longer it's inside (particularly if the glass or bottle is covered or sealed in some way).
Price at time of publish: $5
Material: Premium food-grade 304 stainless steel | Length: 4 to 9 inches | What’s Included: One straw, a long cleaning brush, and a keychain aluminum case
"Without a doubt, this reusable straw was one of my faves out of the group tested. It's practical, affordable, and stylish."
Best for Smoothies
ALINK Reusable Smoothie Straws
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Courtesy of Amazon
Fits in tall tumblers
Wide opening works perfectly on any thick beverage
Great for kids and adults
Might be too long for certain cups
Because smoothie straws are wider than those typically used for iced tea, this set is ideally suited for dense liquids such as milkshakes, blended cocktails, and yogurt drinks. They’re also quite functional for adults and kids. There's no need to worry about chipping teeth if bitten on or the straw being too cold (or hot) to the touch, which was a standout feature during testing. Plus, each is extra long, so they pair great with tall glasses or water bottles.
The brush in the set is an ideal size to clean the straws in terms of width and length. Overall, these straws are a solid choice—especially for households with children or individuals who want extra reusable straws for travel tumblers. The company also makes reusable boba straws with wider openings.
Price at time of publish: $7
Material: Food grade, pure silicone | Length: 12 inches | What’s Included: 6 straws and a cleaning brush
"Thick beverages like smoothies and milkshakes are exactly what this straw is made for. There's a nice wide opening, so it's easy to suck just about any edible liquids through."
Best Glass
JimJim Clear Glass Straws
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Courtesy of Amazon
Wide opening perfect for thick beverages
Heat resistant
Good length
Can break easily
For those interested in a heavier material, glass straws are another good option. They are BPA-free and made from borosilicate, so they should last for a long time if properly cared for. This set includes two bent straws and two straight straws, each measuring 9 inches long—an ideal height for use with a variety of drinkware. Our product tester was particularly pleased that the straw openings are wide enough to consume many different types of beverages without the straws getting clogged or being difficult to clean afterward.
The included cleaning tools are also adequately designed for use with this set. The bristles are full enough to properly scrub off any stains, plus the handle is long enough to completely push the brush through the straws. If the straws will primarily be kept in an adults-only home or an office setting, this set is a chic and practical option. There is also a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, meaning the company will issue a refund if any issues arise post-purchase.
Price at time of publish: $9
Material: Borosilicate glass | Length: 9 inches | What’s Included: 4 straws and a cleaning brush
"I didn't notice a change in the temperature of the straw at all while drinking out of it with a cold beverage and did not experience any issues with the glass getting too warm or hot to the touch when drinking a warm drink."
Best for Cocktails
Teivio 12-Pack Extra Short Reusable Metal Drink Straws
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Courtesy of Amazon
Extremely easy to clean
Includes silicone tips
Great for warm beverages
Too narrow for thick beverages
Cocktail straws are typically short and thin, so these 5-inch-long bent metal straws are the perfect replacement for plastic whether you use them in a low ball glass, margarita glass, or a half-pint mason jar. Although made of rust- and scratch-proof stainless steel, they surprisingly didn’t absorb the temperature when tested with a variety of liquids (which makes these an appropriate choice for hot and cold drinks).
Much like when drinking a chilled beverage, the extra tips in the set can prevent lips or teeth from getting too hot when drinking warm liquids. Also, since many mugs and tea cups tend to be smaller, the shorter length of these straws pairs well with that type of ceramic or glassware. This 12-piece set also comes with two 6-inch cleaning brushes and a carrying case. Another big perk is that each one is very easy to clean because the included brushes are longer than the straws themselves, allowing a brush to be completely inserted through the straws and the extra tips (together or separately).
Price at time of publish: $7
Material: 18/8 stainless steel | Length: 5 inches | What’s Included: 12 straws and two cleaning brushes
"Much like when drinking something cold, the extra tips can prevent one's lips and teeth from getting too hot when drinking warm beverages when using. Also, since many mugs and tea cups tend to be shorter in size, the shorter length pairs well with that type of ceramic or glassware."
Best Combination
Klean Kanteen 3-Piece Straw Set
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Courtesy of Amazon
Silicone tips easier on teeth
Dishwasher safe
Includes expander tube to lengthen straws as needed
Not for use with hot drinks
While stainless steel straws are ideal for punching through plastic to-go lids, silicone straws have a softer mouthfeel. For the best of both worlds, this straw was designed for both scenarios. The bottom piece is made of stainless steel, and the top part is a curved silicone flex tip, so it is very comfortable to drink through since you can sip without having to tip your head at an awkward angle.
These straws are quite versatile in regard to the types of beverages they can be used with. This set does not come with any cleaning tool. That being said, the straws were wide enough during product testing to rinse out sufficiently with water and soap. Plus, they can be put in the dishwasher. Each one can also be used with different size glassware and containers, thanks to the expander tube included with the set. They're also appropriate for kids and adults.
Price at time of publish: $10
Material: Stainless steel, food grade silicone | Length: 9 inches | What’s Included: 3 straws, 1 cut-to-fit silicone extender
"I personally really appreciate how durable these straws are, plus that they can be used safely by people of various ages (and with different size containers thanks to the expander tube included with the set, which can be trimmed to add to each straw to make them longer as needed)."
Best for Kids
Softy Straws Silicon Reusable Drinking Straws
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Courtesy of The Grommet
Bendable
Soft texture
Dishwasher safe
Diameter of opening is small for adults
Silicone straws are another reusable alternative to plastic that is less likely to absorb heat and thus won’t get overly hot or too cold like some stainless steel versions do. During testing, we were pleased with the temperature control of these straws in particular, in addition to how flexible and pliable each one was. Since silicone straws are typically soft in texture, this product is a particularly safe choice for kids since these straws pose little risk of eye pokes, teeth damage, or choking hazard.
Each Softy Straw is 8.25 inches tall, which works well with child-size or regular cups. This set comes with five straws in a variety of colors and, instead of a brush, includes a straw squeegee to clean out any mold or buildup, which is also a handy tool for littles who may occasionally help with washing the dishes. In addition, the straws are dishwasher safe.
Price at time of publish: $13
Material: 100 percent premium-grade silicone | Length: 8.25 inches | What’s Included: 5 straws and a squeegee cleaning tool
"I think this product is best suited for use by kids 10 and younger—mainly based on the diameter, length, and the fact that these straws can be lightly chewed or bitten with very little risk of teeth damage or choking hazard."
We love the Alink Stainless Steel Straws for their durability, comfortable tips, and perfect height. If you have little ones, we recommended the heat-resistant and kid-safe Softy Straws Silicone Reusable Drinking Straws.
How We Tested
We researched reusable straws in a variety of sizes and materials and sent nine top-rated options to our experienced product tester to try them out side by side. Each straw was tested with cold and hot beverages, as well as thicker liquids like smoothies and milkshakes. We observed whether the straw muted the temperature or became too hot or cold to touch. We also looked at the overall design and assessed durability. Each straw (or set) was rated on comfort, design, ease of cleaning, and overall value.
What To Look for in Reusable Straws
Materials
Mindful Momma creator and natural living educator Micaela Preston advises choosing reusable straws based on anticipated use. “Need something indestructible? A stainless steel straw is your best friend," she says. "Drinking boba tea? Get the extra-wide straw. Have a hot drink? A bamboo straw will be your best bet. Enjoying your favorite smoothie? Go for a glass straw—my personal fave.”
Storage
“Get a reusable straw that folds up if possible, as it’s way easier to store in a bag or purse,” says environmental media host and Brown Girl Green blogger Kristy Drutman. “Using items, like a small pencil pouch that you can slip into your bag, are also very useful."
Preston seconds Drutham’s suggestion by encouraging consumers to store their straws in a protective pouch for safekeeping. She also recommends getting a mini brush to keep them clean.
FAQs
Are reusable straws better for the environment?
According to Drutham, the answer is yes, “as long as they are actually reused and not thrown out immediately. Reusable straws are made in smaller quantities and instantly replace thousands of plastic straws, which would harm the environment," she says.
Investing in reusable straws is one way to counteract the current statistic that plastic is among the top contributors of debris found in oceans—and Micaela Preston of Mindful Momma heartily agrees. “Despite the many movements to eliminate them, single-use plastic straws are still an enormous source of plastic waste in our environment,” she says. “So, how can we do our part to stop the spread of plastic straws around the planet? Make a personal pact to skip the straw unless it is reusable. Reusable straws are easy to find these days and come in a variety of materials and sizes.”
Can you reuse single-use plastic straws?
“You can reuse plastic straws for a short period of time if you wash them properly and do not bite or chew on them,” Drutham says. “But they will most likely wear down eventually and are less durable than reusable straws.”
How do you clean reusable straws?
“You can wash a reusable straw like any other utensil you have in your home with soap and water,” Drutham says. Some straws even come with specific instructions stating that they can be put in the dishwasher to be sterilized or boiled in hot water. Most straws should be cleaned or rinsed before first use.
How do you carry reusable straws?
“As consumers, when we carry our own straws, this reduces the need for coffee shops and restaurants to purchase more plastic straws, thus reducing demand. Carrying your own reusable straw is a super simple way to be more sustainable. I personally use the Final Straw, which is great because it has its own carrying case that attaches to your keychain,” says Emily Waddell, founder of The Honest Consumer. “The straw folds up to fit inside the case, making it super portable and something you don't have to think about grabbing before you leave the house. After using the straw, I'm able to store the straw confidently, knowing it won't get the rest of my bag wet. Then when I get home, I'm easily able to clean it with soap and water."
If you opt for a straw that doesn't come with a similar carrying case, you could carry it in a reusable fabric or silicone bag. Just make sure to thoroughly wash both the straw and bag before using them again.
Why Trust The Spruce Eats?
Cheyenne Elwell drinks an iced coffee almost daily and is passionate about using washable straws that are better for the environment. She has tried out several types of reusable straws both at restaurants and at home, making her an expert in this category.
Rachel Werner, who updated this roundup after testing each item on the list, is a consumer expert who models for sustainable fashion brand Fair Indigo—and has been interviewed by PopSugar for ethical shopping advice. A passion for educating others on holistic wellness and eco-friendly living inspired her to start freelance writing as a side hustle in 2013. She continues to write for several print and digital publications while teaching for The Loft Literary Center, Lighthouse Writers Workshop, and Hugo House.
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