Are Stainless Steel Straws Safe? Everything You Need To Know
Are you wondering if stainless steel straws are safe or better than plastic straws?
If you have the same questions, then this article will give you an overview of everything about reusable stainless steel straws and why they are safe—so by the end of it, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which type of stainless steel drinking straw is best for you to use.
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Many people have been using stainless steel straws to avoid plastic pollution. Stainless steel straws are a great alternative to their plastic counterparts since they can be reused and recycled. However, many have wondered if these reusable straws are safe for drinking hot coffee or tea.
What are stainless steel straws?
Stainless steel straws are reusable, washable, and long-lasting. They don’t dissolve in liquid-like plastic so that you can reuse them repeatedly.
The stainless steel straw is made from 100% food-grade 18/8 304 stainless steel with a thick wall thickness of 0.018in (0.46mm) or more, providing the best balance between rigidity and weight to make drinking easier.
This is also known as Type 304 Stainless Steel or 18/8 Stainless Steel Grade. It has been used for decades because it is highly resistant to corrosion by chemical agents in various environments and temperatures.
Why use stainless steel straws? Here are some benefits of stainless steel straws:
Reusable: One of the most significant benefits of metal straws is that they can be used repeatedly. This reduces waste since you’re not throwing away plastic straws every time you finish your drink.
Durable: Compared to other straws, metal straws tend to last longer and are less likely to bend or break when used regularly. They also come in different materials to find one that best suits your preferences (for example, stainless steel vs. copper).
Easy to clean: Because metal doesn’t absorb odors as plastic does, it’s easy to clean your reusable straw by rinsing it under hot water or putting it in a dishwasher after each use for sanitary purposes. Some people may not wash their straws because they don’t get dirty quickly!
Lightweight. Metal straws weigh a fraction of plastic straws, making them easier to carry.
Dishwasher-safe. Stainless steel straws can be washed in the dishwasher without becoming misshapen or damaged, unlike their plastic counterparts, which may warp if exposed to high heat.
Non-toxic. Stainless steel is a non-toxic material that doesn’t leach chemicals into drinks as they travel through them like plastics (especially ones with BPA). It’s also safe for people with metal allergies!
BPA free. No more worries about whether or not your stainless steel drinking utensils contain harmful chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA), which has been linked to everything from cancer risk to early puberty in children!
What are the cons of stainless steel straws?
Now that you know a bit about the benefits of metal straws, it’s time to look at the cons:
Metal straws can be more expensive than plastic straws: While not as cheap as paper straws, stainless steel straws are still generally more affordable than glass or ceramic ones; however, they can be just as expensive or even more so than silicone and plastic options.
Metal Straws Are Not As Flexible As Plastic Straws: I didn’t realize until trying out different kinds of reusable drinking implements how important flexibility is when deciding which kind of material works best with certain types of drinks… scorching drinks!
Hard texture: As with all metal utensils, the hardness of stainless steel can make it uncomfortable to drink from at first. Try using a flexible silicone straw for your first time using a stainless steel straw to have something more pliable to work with.
Hot drinks: Consider them when purchasing if you like to drink hot beverages with your straws. It’s best not to let the metal touch any -hot liquid, as it could damage it and cause issues later on.
Why shouldn’t you use stainless steel straws?
In some cases, considering some safety factors, we do not recommend using stainless steel straws to avoid unnecessary damage. You should not use stainless steel straws if you have:
It’s not safe for kids. This is because stainless steel straws are skinny and can break easily. They also have sharp edges, which makes them unsafe for children to use. They can be too thin for some kids to use and may pose a choking hazard.
For some people with dentures or braces, The small diameter of these straws makes them more likely to damage braces than other plastic or glass straws.
Dentures. Stainless steel straws may not fit well in your mouth and could be unsafe if they don’t stay in place while drinking from them.
People with pacemakers should avoid using them because they may interfere with their device’s function and cause damage or health issues such as irregular heart rhythms or even death if they contact their wires while drinking through their mouthpiece.
If you’re allergic to metal, then you’ll want to avoid these straws. Stainless steel is a metal that could cause an allergic reaction in some people. If you have any doubts about your allergy status and whether or not stainless steel will be a problem, we recommend contacting your physician before using one of these straws.
Things To Avoid When Using Metal Straws
There are certain things to avoid when using a metal straw.
Avoid using a stainless steel straw if you have a metal implant. This includes any joint replacement, breast implants, and dental fillings.
Avoid using a stainless steel straw if you have a metal crown on your teeth—they can damage the surface or cause it to break apart over time.
Avoid using a stainless steel straw with lids or caps; this will increase the chances that they break and harm your mouth tissues or teeth when they come into contact with them during use.
Avoid using stainless steel straws on narrow containers(such as those used for coffee) because they could scratch the inside over time due to their sharp edges being exposed during normal usage conditions, such as moving around quickly while sipping from them at different angles frequently throughout each day.
Remove your unused stainless steel straws so they don’t get lost. Remove your stainless steel straw from your mouth, and place it back in its case or storage container.
Keep any metal straws away from children. While they may be strong enough to withstand your teeth and chewing, they are not indestructible! Metal straws should only be used by adults 18 or older due to choking hazards for younger users (children).
Avoid using a stainless steel straw while moving. Drinking while driving or riding your bike or skateboard is not safe! You can hurt yourself if you accidentally drop your straw on the road and it hits your tire. Metal is also dangerous if you are around other people who might get poked by it – tiny kids!
Are our stainless steel straws safe?
Stainless steel straws themselves are safe, and here’s why.
Stainless drinking straws are made from food-grade stainless steel, so you don’t have to worry about BPA or phthalates leaching into your drink.
They’re easy to clean in the dishwasher and durable enough that they won’t crack or break if you drop them.
They’re also reusable — wash them with hot soapy water every use.
Stainless steel drinking straws are great for individuals who prefer not using plastic products but don’t want to be wasteful or spend a lot of money buying paper or glass alternatives daily (which can add up quickly).
Plus, unlike other disposable straws like paper or plastic ones, they’re more hygienic: because there are no crevices where bacteria can grow between uses like on traditional materials such as paper towels which should be thrown away after each use!
Is it safe to drink out of a stainless steel straw?
Although stainless steel straw itself is safe and a great alternative to plastic straws, in some cases, they’re not entirely safe. While it’s true that stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion than plastic, it still can’t be used in all conditions.
For example, don’t drink out of your stainless steel straw when you have a cold or other mouth problem like an irritated tongue or a sore throat. You shouldn’t use them if you have braces or dentures; they could scratch the inside of your mouth!
Can stainless steel straws make you sick?
While stainless steel straws are safe, they can still make you sick. However, this is only true if the stainless steel used in manufacturing has not been adequately cleaned. If your stainless steel straw has a greasy residue after use and you use it anyway, you risk getting sick.
How long do stainless steel straws last?
Stainless steel straws can last a lifetime if you care for them properly. They’re safe to use with hot or cold drinks and are dishwasher safe (although they’ll need to be washed by hand first).
The stainless steel material means no harmful chemicals leach into your drink, so it’s safer for the environment and you!
Are metal straws toxic?
You can drink out of them without worry.
Metal straws are not toxic to humans and will not harm your health. They might be a little more challenging to clean than plastic or paper straws, but the difference is negligible compared to the benefits of using stainless steel straws.
Suppose you’re concerned about your environmental impact. In that case, metal straws are a great alternative to plastic disposable ones because they can last indefinitely if properly cared for (and some brands offer replacement parts).
Can stainless steel straws get moldy?
There’s a common misconception that stainless steel straws are impervious to germs and bacteria. While it’s true that these elements can’t entirely damage them, they are still susceptible to mold growth.
If you’re concerned about your health or the well-being of others, it’s best not to share your straw with anyone else—and don’t use it for more than one person.
Stainless steel straws can be cleaned in the dishwasher (or with boiling water) after every use, but regular washing is necessary regardless of whether or not there’s visible dirt on the surface of your straw. It may take some time before you get used to this habit; however, once you start practicing regularly cleaning your stainless steel drinking utensils, you’ll never want to go back!
Can you use stainless steel straws for hot drinks?
Stainless steel straws are safe for hot drinks, but you should take precautions. If you use a stainless steel straw with hot liquids frequently, you’ll likely have to replace it more often than if you use it infrequently.
Stainless steel is strong enough to withstand the heat of a hot drink without melting or getting damaged. However, your mouth can get burned if tiny cracks in your stainless steel straw let liquid seep through and touch your lips.
After using a stainless steel straw with boiling liquids several times in a row without any issues, some people may feel confident enough to try drinking scalding liquids without concern about how long their straws will last or how much abuse they can withstand before needing replacement (or repair).
Can you drink hot coffee with a metal straw?
Yes, you can drink hot coffee with a metal straw. If you follow these simple instructions, you’ll be able to enjoy your drink without worry:
Don’t let the hot liquid touch the metal. When you’re in a rush (as most of us are), it’s easy to accidentally let some hot water splash onto your straw. To avoid this, hold on to the base of your cup–it will help keep your hands dry and prevent accidents.
Stainless steel is safe to drink from and dishwasher-safe! So don’t worry about sanitation when washing up after using one of these handy tools at home or work!
Stainless steel straws are not safe for hot drinks. The high temperature of the liquid can cause damage to the mouthpiece, which could result in burns or cuts. Additionally, they’re not recommended for cold drinks because stainless steel doesn’t insulate well against extreme temperature changes—the straw will become too hard and uncomfortable to use.
If you have children under five who habitually put things into their mouths, you should avoid using stainless steel straws altogether. They may accidentally bite on one or choke if it breaks off inside their throat (or gets lodged in their esophagus).
Can metal straws go in the dishwasher?
Stainless steel is dishwasher safe, but—and this is important—don’t put it in the microwave! That’ll warp your straw and make it look all wonky. And while they don’t say whether they’re safe for boiling water (probably because they assume you’d never consider doing that), we would recommend against it as well.
Can metal straws rust?
Stainless steel is a standard straw material, but it’s worth noting that it can rust. To prevent rusting, you’ll want to avoid leaving your stainless steel straw in water or other liquids for extended periods.
If you do find yourself with a rusty stainless steel straw, there are several ways to clean it:
Rinse the straw immediately after using it and allow it to dry before storage. This will help prevent moisture from staying on the surface and corroding the metal further into rust.
If you notice rust forming on your straws after use, wipe them down with a damp cloth or paper towel (which should be as wet as possible). You could also try soaking them in vinegar or lemon juice for 30 minutes before scrubbing off any remaining residue with soap and warm water; this method may work better if there is visible corrosion on the external surfaces of your stainless steel drinking utensil.
Are our stainless steel straws safe for teeth?
Stainless steel straws are safe for your teeth. While plastic straws can cause teeth chipping if you bite down on one, stainless steel is better for dental health.
Stainless steel straws are more environmentally friendly than plastic ones. This is because they don’t contain harmful chemicals, so they won’t leak into the ground or water table when disposed of properly (more on that later).
Stainless steel straws are also more durable than their plastic counterparts; they last longer, so you won’t have to worry about replacing them as often!
Are metal straws worse than plastic?
Now metal straws are not worse than plastic; metal straws are better than plastic straws.
Unlike plastic straws, stainless steel is a durable material that can be recycled repeatedly. It’s also hygienic because it doesn’t leach chemicals into hot or cold drinks and can be sanitized in the dishwasher.
But plastic straws are disposable. This means you’ll have to buy a new one each time you need a drink, which can get pricey if you use many of them.
Metal straws are also more durable than their plastic counterparts—they won’t melt when used with hot drinks like coffee or tea. However, they require maintenance to keep them in good working condition: They must be cleaned regularly with soap and water (or even vinegar).
Plastic isn’t necessarily unsafe, but it does present some issues. Plastic straws are often made from polypropylene (PP), which has a high melting point and is difficult to recycle without access to facilities that can process PP in large volumes. Recycling facilities aren’t nearly as common as they should be; many communities lack them.
So when you throw your plastic straw away at a restaurant or bar today, there’s no guarantee where it will end up tomorrow—or even if it will ever get recycled!
Are our stainless steel straws dishwasher safe?
Yes, you can wash your stainless steel straws in a dishwasher. But before you do, check the care instructions for each straw. Some may be dishwasher safe; others may not—depending on the construction material and how much heat it can withstand! To get an idea of how durable each type of stainless steel straw is, look at their density rating:
0.1mm – 0.2mm thick = Durable with little risk of melting or warping
0.3mm – 0.4mm thick = Less durable with moderate risk of melting or warping
More than 1mm thick = Extremely fragile with a very high risk of melting or warping
How do you clean stainless steel straws?
Wash with soap and water. Soap and water can help remove bacteria, so wash your straws frequently. Wash each straw thoroughly with soap and warm water using a soft sponge or brush. Then rinse it under running water to remove any residue the cleaning agent may have left. Clean all sides of each straw and its mouthpiece before putting them away in storage containers or drawers.
Use a bottle brush if necessary. If you’re having trouble getting into all the crevices of your stainless steel straws, try using a bottle brush instead of just regular brushes or sponges—the tiny bristles will be able to reach places other tools can. Not reach easily!
Use a straw cleaner for stubborn stains if needed! If any stubborn stains on your stainless steel straws won’t come off after washing with soap and water (or even using a bottle brush), consider investing in an inexpensive cleaning product designed specifically for cleaning metal items such as these. Drinking utensils!
Soak in vinegar: Vinegar can be a great cleaning agent, but you shouldn’t soak your stainless steel straws too long. For plastic and silicone straws, don’t soak them in vinegar.
Can you bring stainless steel straws on a plane?
You can bring stainless steel straws on a plane, but you should check with your airline first. Most airlines allow passengers to get their reusable straws, but some will require you to pack them in a plastic bag or another container separate from the rest of your carry-on items.
If you’re traveling by car, it’s probably safe to assume that bringing a stainless steel straw in your handbag or backpack will be fine—but make sure before you head out!
Where to buy stainless steel straws?
If you want to buy custom and wholesale stainless steel straws, don’t hesitate to contact us; we’d love to offer you highly customized stainless steel straws at wholesale prices.
Conclusion
Stainless steel straws are a great alternative to plastic straws; we should all use them. Next time you go out for a drink or order takeout, don’t forget to bring your stainless steel straw!