Can Reusable Bamboo Straws Get Moldy?
If there is one thing that the eco-friendly movement has shown us, it is the versatility of bamboo. This plant has been used to make sheets, dishes, and even straws. And while it does provide a host of benefits, there are some concerns about its hygienic repercussions, especially around mold growth.
This is particularly an issue among those who use bamboo straws, and understandably so. Which is why, we have decided to do a deep dive into the validity of this concern and what you can do about it.
So sit back and relax – we have all the answers you seek.
Can reusable bamboo straws get moldy?
Are reusable bamboo straws safe?
Yes, bamboo straws are safe. They are made from natural bamboo straws that were cultivated without the use of any pesticides. Not only are they free from any chemicals but they even have antimicrobial properties.
Moreover, these straws are steamed and pressure cleaned to get rid of any dirt and germs that they goT in contact with during harvesting. It also helps that bamboo straws don’t conduct heat from your hot drinks – so you don’t have to worry about getting burnt.
For those with children, there is another thing to be happy about. You don’t have to worry about their tiny gums – bamboo straws are soft and gentle.
This is only an issue after years of use when the straws fray and expose split ends. At this point, you will have to replace them and toss them into your compost heap.
How to clean reusable bamboo straws
To avoid mold growth, you need to learn how to clean your bamboo straws properly. Luckily, we have some pointers for you.
First of all, you have to check the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm whether your straws are dishwasher safe – most are not. However, hand washing bamboo straws is not difficult.
You just have to rinse them out after every use and ensure you scrub the inside of the straws with a coconut fiber brush and warm soapy water.
Then at least once every month you should soak your straws for a few minutes in a mixture of boiling water and a spoonful of vinegar.
Finally, after every wash, you should air dry them vertically or at an angle. This ensures that all the water drains out and that they dry completely.
How to care for your reusable bamboo straws
Apart from regularly cleaning them, there are other ways to properly care for your bamboo straws. These include:
- Rub coconut oil on the inside and outside of your straws every couple of months. This makes them last longer and look more vibrant.
- Ensure your straws are completely dry before using them again.
- Store your straws in a well-ventilated area.
- Avoid biting your straws.
- Replace the straws whenever you notice strange tastes, odors, or splitting.
Take care of your straws
Truth be told, the better you are at taking care of your straws, the less the likelihood of them growing mold or aging quickly.
Therefore just take good care of your bamboo straws and you’ll have nothing to worry about.