What are the different types of eco-friendly straws?
Plastic straws were a fixture in our daily lives for many years. They were used at home, in restaurants, and even in offices. While undeniably convenient, they also came with several drawbacks.
Because plastic straws are not recyclable, they end up in landfills or oceans. They also pollute and endanger marine life and other animals. The core issue is a lack of awareness about alternatives to plastic straws—fortunately, many innovations now exist, such as eco-friendly straws, which in some cases help us achieve zero waste.
Which alternative should you choose?
There are many types of eco-friendly straws on the market today, available in a wide range of materials, colours, and shapes.
We therefore recommend using eco-friendly or reusable straws to limit waste. The use of eco-friendly straws is steadily rising as an alternative to plastic.
Eco-friendly straws are biodegradable, reusable, and recyclable. They are made from corn starch, bamboo, or paper and are sometimes called “green straws.”
One of the most popular eco-friendly options is the paper straw. Paper straws are made from a renewable resource, break down easily, and are biodegradable—sometimes even compostable.
Other eco-friendly alternatives include metal, glass, and bamboo straws.
Reusable straws are durable and can be used many times without wearing out.
Some reusable straws feature a filter at the tip to keep drinks from becoming too cold or too hot.
Reusable straws come in different colours, shapes, and sizes—some even glow in the dark!
The different materials for eco-friendly straws
Stainless steel straws
Stainless steel straws are among the most eco-friendly alternatives to plastic. They are reusable and do not leach chemicals or toxins into beverages.
Their popularity is growing as people become more aware of plastic’s environmental impact. They’re perfect for replacing plastic straws in restaurants and cafés or taking along when you go out for a drink.
Bamboo straws
Bamboo straws are another excellent choice for anyone looking to reduce plastic use. They are biodegradable, reusable, and suitable for hot or cold drinks.
However, they can break if not handled carefully.
Sugarcane straws
Sugarcane straws are made from bagasse, a by-product of sugarcane processing. These straws are eco-friendly and just as effective as traditional models.
Glass straws
Glass straws are the latest trend in sustainable living. They are reusable, durable, and available in various colours. They are both eco-friendly and stylish.
The use of glass straws is slowly becoming mainstream as more people choose them over plastic for environmental reasons.
They last longer than bamboo straws and are less prone to wear, but they can still break if dropped, so do handle them with care.
Silicone straws
Silicone straws have become a popular option for those who want to lower their environmental footprint. They are made from food-grade silicone, safe to use, and easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher.
Silicone straws come in all shapes and sizes and often feature foldable, reusable, or dishwasher-safe designs—great for anyone seeking the perfect straw for their lifestyle.
Edible straws
At Covr, you’ll also find an innovative alternative: edible straws!
Using edible straws is a new, eco-friendly, healthy, and enjoyable trend.
There are two main types of edible straws: plant-based and gelatin-based.
- Plant-based straws are made from algae, rice, or seaweed. They are sustainable, biodegradable, non-toxic, and free of chemicals.
- Gelatin-based straws are made from animal collagen. They share the same properties as plant-based ones but can last for more than a year when stored in a dry place.
Some might think edible straws are less pleasant to use than plastic ones, but they are actually very smooth and enjoyable.
Discover many alternatives at Covr, including bamboo, wheat, sugarcane, flour-based, paper, kraft paper, reed, and silicone straws!