How To Clean Reusable Straws Properly
If you've switched to reusable straws at home to be more environmentally friendly grab our simple guide below on how to clean them properly.
Switching to reusable metal straws is a great way to make a sustainable lifestyle choice, and reduce single use plastic at home. But obviously you need to keep them properly clean so they're hygienic to use. Cleaning reusable straws properly, helps them to last longer and obviously reduces waste.
Have you noticed though... gunk can build up inside the straws, especially if they've been used to drink smoothies or milkshakes. Keeping reusable straws clean is a must, not only to prevent bacteria building up inside them, but also to keep your drinks tasting good.
How To Clean Reusable Straws
Follow our simple guide below for the best way to clean metal straws
Equipment Needed For Cleaning Reusable Straws
- Washing up bowl/or sink
- Straw brush
- Soft dishwashing cloth
- Washing up liquid - we use Ecover washing up liquid for dishwashing
- Pot drainer
How To Clean Reusable Straws
Step One - soak the straws
- Fill the bowl with hot soapy water and put the straws in to soak for 10 minutes to loosen any drink debris caught in the straw.
Step Two - clean the insides of the straws
- Use the straw brush to clean the insides of the straws - insert the brush into one end first, paying extra attention to any bends in the straw, making sure you clean the bendy bit. Just push and pull the brush vigorously inside the straw to clean them properly.
- Repeat the above but from the other end of the straw.
Step Three - clean the outsides of the straws
- Wipe the outside of the straw using a cloth soaked in warm soapy water. Be sure to give extra attention to the parts which go into peoples mouth.
Step Four - rinse the straws
- Hold the straws under running water to rinse out any soapy residue.
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Step Five - air dry the straws
- Put the straws into a cutlery drainer so that they can air dry.
- Once thoroughly dry you can store the clean reusable straws back away in the draw or cupboard, ready for the next use.
Can You Clean Reusable Straws In The Dishwasher?
Yes! You can put the reusable straws safely into the cutlery basket in the dishwasher. Just be sure to make sure they're secure so they don't fall out during the wash cycle.
Also, it's best to clean reusable straws before putting them in the dishwasher by giving them a quick rinse through under warm running water first too, and give them a little scrub inside with the straw brush, especially straws with a bend as the dishwasher water doesn't always get right inside the straw and clean it adequately.
Once they've finished washing in the dishwasher, allow them to air dry before storing away for the next use.
Cleaning Note! We wash metal straws in the dishwasher, however you should check and follow manufacturer instructions and cleaning guide to avoid any damage.
Quick Tips For Keeping Reusable Straws Clean
Rinse After Each Use - help clean reusable straws by giving them a quick rinse under running water after each use, helps to stop drink particles drying and clogging inside the straw. This is especially important if they've been used to drink smoothies or milkshakes. This quick cleaning step, makes it easier to clean them properly later.
Soak In Baking Powder - for extra clean reusable straws, you can use baking powder as a mild abrasive on the straw brush to clean inside. You can also soak the straws in hot water mixed with dishwashing soap and baking powder to help loosen any dried on drink debris inside the straws.
Store In The Bag - once the straws are clean and air dried, it's best to keep them stored away in the little cotton bag that comes with them. This just stops them getting dusty.
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Wendy is the creator of Daisies & Pie, a UK food blog sharing easy meals and home lifestyle tips since 2012
