Cleaning Methods for Reusable Drinking Straws, either using a Straw Cleaner or without
In the quest for a sustainable lifestyle, reusable straws have become a popular choice. But how do you ensure they stay clean and safe? Susan Stocker, the owner of the #1 Green Cleaning Company in Seattle, shares her expert tips.
Reusable straws can be cleaned with minimal effort using a dishwasher. However, for a deeper clean, Susan suggests scrubbing the inside of the straw with a soapy straw cleaning brush or pipe cleaner to remove buildup. If there's extra stubborn gunk, soak the straw overnight in a 1:1 solution of water and vinegar with a splash of lemon juice.
For those without a straw cleaner, there are alternative methods. Fill a bowl with warm water and dish soap, soak the straws, and scrub the outside thoroughly with a cloth or sponge. Alternatively, soak straws in a mixture of water and vinegar for about half an hour to help sterilize and break down residue inside.
If you can't get the cleaning solution inside the straw, create a paste of equal parts baking soda and water, then try to get it inside by shaking or pushing it through. Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing well. Rinse with hot water after soaking or scrubbing to clear soap or cleaning solutions.
Once a month, sterilize straws by submerging them in boiling water to kill bacteria and ensure deep cleaning.
Avoid using abrasive tools that could damage the straw surface. Allow straws to air dry fully after cleaning to prevent moisture buildup inside.
Susan Stocker, a professional cleaner with over 10 years of experience, specializes in reduced-carbon-emissions cleaning. She won the 2017 Better Business Torch Award for Ethics & Integrity.
Remember, rubber straws provide more flexibility than glass or metal reusable straws, making it easier to clean gunk built up in the straw. If you are worried about ingesting soap residue, try a dish soap that contains natural ingredients.
This guide, co-authored by Susan Stocker and Marcus Pruitt, BS, has been viewed 67,945 times. Follow these simple steps to keep your reusable straws clean, safe, and sustainable, even when a dedicated straw-cleaning brush is not at hand.
References: 1. Stocker, S. (2022). Personal Communication. 2. Pruitt, M. (2022). Personal Communication. 3. Stocker, S. (2021). The Green Cleaner's Guide to Sustainable Living. Seattle: Green Press. 4. Johnson, A. (2020). The Complete Guide to Cleaning Reusable Straws. Eco-Friendly Living Magazine. 5. Smith, L. (2019). The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Reusable Straws. Green Matters. 6. Brown, J. (2018). The Best Ways to Clean Your Reusable Straw. The Spruce Eats. 7. Greenpeace (2021). Single-Use Plastic Pollution: The Facts. Greenpeace.org.
- To maintain the health and safety of reusable straws, consider using a dishwasher for minimal effort or scrubbing the inside with a soapy straw cleaning brush for a deeper clean.
- If extra gunk is present, soak the straw overnight in a 1:1 solution of water and vinegar with a splash of lemon juice, or use a bowl of warm water and dish soap to soak and scrub the straw.
- For those without a straw cleaner, alternative methods like filling a bowl with warm soapy water and scrubbing the straw with a cloth or sponge can be effective.
- If cleaning solution can't get inside the straw, create a paste of equal parts baking soda and water, then try to get it inside by shaking or pushing it through.
- Once a month, sterilize straws by submerging them in boiling water to kill bacteria and ensure deep cleaning.
- In the pursuit of a sustainable lifestyle, remember that rubber straws offer more flexibility in cleaning, and opt for dish soap containing natural ingredients to avoid soap residue.
