Let’s talk about plastic straws. You’ve probably heard all about how these skinny little things actually have a pretty huge negative impact on our environment — especially when it comes to ocean life. But when you consider the fact that many straws are made from dangerous polystyrene microplastics — the same stuff used to produce styrofoam — we’ll put it bluntly: plastic straws SUCK. (No pun intended.) So we’ve put together a list of our favorite eco-friendly straws, so you can sip sustainably and gulp guilt-free.

Silicone

Of all of the plastic straw alternatives out there, our top choice is silicone. They are non-toxic, odorless, flexible, and just about endlessly reusable! On top of being dishwasher safe, most silicone straws are also safe for use with both warm and cold drinks. If you decide to make the switch, be sure to find one that is 100% plastic free and made entirely of medical grade silicone. Pura Stainless offers a number of one-of-a kind straw options so that you can find the perfect fit for all ages and sipping preferences. Even better, all of our products are Made Safe® Certified, free of over 80,000 toxins!

Paper

When you need a lightweight, disposable option for on the go, eco-friendly paper straws are your best bet! While we love that they are biodegradable, they have quite the reputation for beginning this process inside your beverage! Plus, their quick disintegration can make drinking challenging for children or adults who have a difficult time sucking or swallowing. So, if you’re looking to sip slowly, paper straws simply aren’t for you.

Pasta

A great, and often unexpected plastic straw alternative is…. Pasta! A long tube shaped noodle formed in a perfect straw shape is the perfect choice for picnics or summery cocktails. The downside is that these natural straws are single-use. As they sit in liquid they begin to soften and can break into sharp pieces. Since they pose a choking hazard, that makes them a no-go for your kiddos.

Metal

If you’re looking for the strongest, most durable option, metal straws are your best friend! They’re often made of stainless steel which is non-toxic and much safer for your health than plastic straws. They’re easy to clean and can be popped in the dishwasher with your silverware. Unfortunately, they do their job as the toughest straw a little too well, making them very dangerous when used incorrectly. Be sure to never walk while drinking with a metal straw and never offer one to your little ones.

Glass

Glass straws are fun, cute, and totally aesthetic. So, if you’re having a cocktail party or making lattes at home, glass is an excellent sustainable straw option for you. They are non-toxic and can easily be run through the dishwasher. The catch? These straws are not portable, so you’ll need to watch out for breakability. That means, you should never walk while drinking from a glass straw, and it is never a suitable option for children.

Bamboo

As far as sustainable straws go, bamboo is pretty close to the top of our list! It’s natural, biodegradable, nontoxic, and durable! The downside is they can hold on to odors and breed bacteria more easily than other plastic straw alternatives and they don't last quite as long as glass, metal, or silicone. They might be a perfect choice for adults looking for an all-natural reusable straw, but they are too hard to be safe for kids.

At Pura Stainless, we believe that safe, eco-friendly products should be accessible for the whole family. We hope this information about the best plastic straw alternatives helps you find the perfect swaps to make your beverages safer for you and the planet. To shop our plastic-free water bottles and sustainable straws for kids and adults, visit our website. Until then, sip sustainably!