Switching to reusable straws can help reduce plastic waste, but they need regular attention to stay clean and functional. Knowing how to clean reusable straws properly keeps them hygienic and extends their lifespan, whether you’re using metal, silicone, or glass options.
These care tasks cover a wide range, from quick rinses to deep cleaning sessions.
Why Reusable Straw Care Matters
Different straw materials tend to collect different types of buildup. Metal straws can develop water spots and mineral deposits. Silicone straws might hold onto flavors from smoothies or coffee drinks. Glass straws can show residue more clearly but may chip if handled roughly.
Regular cleaning helps prevent bacterial growth inside the narrow tubes. A quick rinse after each use takes seconds but makes a difference in how clean your straws stay between deeper cleanings.
1. Rinse Your Reusable Straws Immediately After Each Use
On of the easy ways to maintain straw hygiene is catching residue before it dries. Run warm water through your straw right after finishing your drink.
Hold the straw under the faucet and let water flow through both ends. This takes about 10 seconds and removes most liquid before it becomes sticky.
For thicker drinks like smoothies, you might need to run water through a few times. The quicker you rinse, the less scrubbing you’ll need later.
2. Use a Straw Cleaning Brush for Daily Washing
A straw cleaning brush reaches the interior surfaces that water alone can’t clean. These thin brushes have bristles designed to scrub the inside of narrow tubes.
Add a drop of dish soap to your brush and insert it through the straw. Twist and push the brush back and forth several times to loosen buildups.
Rinse thoroughly under running water until no soap bubbles remain. This daily routine can help prevent residue from building up over time.
3. Soak Reusable Straws in Warm Soapy Water Weekly
Deep cleaning once a week helps catch small bits your daily rinse might miss. Fill a tall glass or jar with warm water and a squirt of dish soap.
Drop your straws in and let them soak for 15-30 minutes. The warm, soapy water loosens dried-on particles and makes scrubbing easier.
After soaking, use your cleaning brush to scrub the interior. This combination of soaking and brushing tends to remove stubborn residue more effectively than brushing alone.
4. Clean Metal Straws with Vinegar to Remove Mineral Deposits
Hard water can leave white spots or cloudy buildup on stainless steel straws. White vinegar helps dissolve these mineral deposits without harsh chemicals.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a container. Submerge your metal straws for 20-30 minutes, then scrub with your cleaning brush.
The acidity in vinegar helps loosen calcium and lime scale. Rinse well afterward to remove any vinegar smell.
5. Sanitize Silicone Straws with Boiling Water Monthly
Silicone straw maintenance includes occasional heat sanitizing since the material can absorb flavors. Boiling water kills bacteria and helps release trapped odors.
Bring a pot of water to a full boil and carefully drop in your silicone straws. Let them boil for 3-5 minutes, then remove with tongs.
Allow the straws to cool completely before touching them. This method can help refresh silicone that’s starting to smell or taste off.
6. Check for Damage During Your Cleaning Routine
Inspect your straws while washing them each week. Look for cracks in glass straws, bent edges on metal ones, or tears in silicone.
Run your finger along the rim of each straw to feel for rough spots or chips. These imperfections can harbor bacteria or scratch your mouth.
Damaged straws should be considered for replacement rather than continued use. Catching wear early helps avoid potential hygiene issues.
7. Dry Reusable Straws Completely Before Storing
Moisture inside straws creates an environment where mold and bacteria can grow. Shake out excess water after washing, then stand straws upright to air dry.
Place them in a cup or utensil holder where air can circulate. Leave them out for several hours or overnight until the interior is completely dry.
You can also use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe the outside. Proper drying between uses helps maintain freshness.
8. Run Straws Through the Dishwasher for Convenient Cleaning
Many reusable straws are dishwasher safe, making cleanup easier. Place them in the utensil basket or a specialized straw holder to keep them secure.
The hot water and detergent in a dishwasher cycle can remove buildup effectively. Check your straw’s packaging to confirm they’re rated for dishwasher use.
Even dishwasher-safe straws benefit from occasional brush cleaning. The dishwasher might not reach every spot inside the narrow tube.
9. Use Baking Soda Paste for Stubborn Stains on Reusable Straws
Sometimes regular washing leaves behind stains from coffee, tea, or berry smoothies. Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive that lifts discoloration.
Make a paste with three parts baking soda and one part water. Use your cleaning brush to work this paste through the straw’s interior.
Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
10. Store Clean Straws in a Breathable Container
Once your eco-friendly straw cleaning is done, storage matters too. Keep straws in a container that allows airflow rather than sealing them in plastic bags.
A cup, jar, or mesh pouch works well for home storage. For travel, choose a ventilated case specifically designed for reusable straws.
Proper storage prevents musty smells from developing. It also keeps your straws ready to grab when you need them.
11. Replace Cleaning Brushes Every Few Months
Your straw cleaning brush does heavy work and wears out over time. Bristles bend, fray, or fall out after repeated use.
A worn brush can’t clean effectively and might even scratch the inside of your straws. Replace it whenever it looks damaged or worn.
Keep an extra brush on hand so you’re never without one. Clean brushes mean cleaner straws.
12. Designate Separate Straws for Different Drink Types
If you use straws for both regular drinks and thick smoothies, consider keeping them separate. Smoothie straws often have wider diameters and need more intensive cleaning.
Label or color-code your straws if you have multiple types. This organization can make your cleaning routine more efficient.
Separating straws can also prevent flavor transfer between different beverages.
Mistakes to Avoid with Sustainable Straw Care
Skipping the brush and relying only on rinsing leaves residue inside the straw. Water flows through but doesn’t scrub the walls where buildup clings.
Storing straws while still damp creates odor problems. Always allow complete drying before putting straws away.
Using abrasive cleaners or steel wool can scratch softer materials like silicone. Stick to soft brushes and gentle cleaning solutions.
Questions & Answers About How to Clean Reusable Straws
How often should you clean reusable straws?
You should rinse reusable straws immediately after each use to prevent residue from drying inside. A thorough cleaning with a brush and soap should happen daily if you use straws regularly.
Deep cleaning with vinegar or baking soda can be done weekly. Monthly sanitizing with boiling water helps maintain hygiene for silicone straws.
Can you put reusable straws in the dishwasher?
Many metal, glass, and silicone straws are dishwasher safe, but you should always check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Place straws in the utensil basket or a straw holder to prevent them from moving during the wash cycle.
How do you remove mold from reusable straws?
If you notice mold inside a straw, soak it in a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and warm water for 30 minutes. Follow this by scrubbing thoroughly with a cleaning brush and hot soapy water.
For stubborn mold, you can boil silicone and metal straws for 5 minutes.
What’s a good way to clean silicone straws?
Wash silicone straws with warm soapy water and a cleaning brush after each use. The flexible material can be turned inside out for more thorough scrubbing.
Boiling silicone straws monthly helps remove absorbed flavors and odors. Avoid using very hot water repeatedly with thin silicone, as it might weaken the material over time.
