Today’s Tip: Clean Reusable Straws and Their Cleaning Brush

Reusable straws can look clean on the outside while moisture or drink residue remains inside the tube. Today’s focused reset cleans the straw and its narrow brush together so both are ready for the next use.

Your step-by-step reusable-straw reset

1. Read the manufacturer’s care instructions and identify the material. Stainless steel, silicone, glass, bamboo, and rigid plastic straws may require different water temperatures, tools, and drying methods.
2. Separate any removable tips, sleeves, or connectors only as directed. Inspect the straw and brush in good light for cracks, chips, rust, rough edges, discoloration, loose bristles, or a bent wire core. Remove damaged pieces from use.
3. Rinse the straw promptly with warm running water if its instructions allow. Hold it over the sink with the opening pointed away from your face, and let water flow through from both ends to loosen ordinary drink residue.
4. Apply a small amount of dish soap approved for the straw to a clean, correctly sized straw brush. Guide the brush straight through the full length without forcing it, twisting carefully so the bristles contact the inside wall. Clean removable pieces separately according to their directions.
5. Rinse the straw from both ends until no soap remains. Wash and rinse the brush handle, wire, and bristles too, then visually check the inside against a light source when the material permits. Repeat the approved cleaning process if residue remains.
6. Shake off excess water carefully and place the straw upright or at an angle where air can pass through it. Let the brush dry with its bristles exposed and uncompressed. Store every piece only when completely dry.

Keep straw care simple

Rinse reusable straws soon after drinks such as smoothies, milk, juice, or sweetened beverages so residue does not dry inside. Keep the dedicated brush clean, dry, and protected from sink splashes, and replace it when the bristles or wire begin to wear.

Safety note

Never force an oversized brush through a straw, reach into the tube with a knife or sharp object, or continue using a straw that is chipped, cracked, rusty, rough, or otherwise damaged. Handle glass and metal straws carefully, and do not walk, run, drive, or play while one is in the mouth. Never mix cleaning chemicals or use a product not approved for food-contact items. Keep narrow straws, detachable pieces, and wire brushes away from young children and pets because they can present choking, puncture, or swallowing hazards. Follow the manufacturer’s age, dishwasher, heat, and replacement guidance.