How to Clean Reusable Straws (Metal, Silicone, Glass, and Bamboo)

Reusable straws are eco-friendly — but the narrow interior is a perfect environment for bacteria, mold, and biofilm to grow if not cleaned properly after every use. Here's how to clean every type thoroughly.

What You'll Need

• Holikme Bottle Brush Set — includes thin straw cleaning brushes that fit inside all standard straw sizes
• Mild dish soap and warm water
• Baking soda and white vinegar (for deep cleaning)
• Efferdent Denture Cleaning Tablets — for weekly deep cleaning without scrubbing

After Every Use: Basic Cleaning

1. Rinse the straw under warm running water immediately after use — run water through the interior to flush out residue.
2. Apply a drop of dish soap to the straw cleaning brush.
3. Insert the brush into the straw and push it through from one end to the other several times.
4. Rinse thoroughly under warm running water, flushing through the interior.
5. Stand upright or lay flat to air dry completely before storing.

Weekly Deep Clean

Denture Tablet Soak

1. Place straws in a tall glass or container.
2. Fill with warm water and drop in one Efferdent denture cleaning tablet.
3. Let soak for 15–30 minutes.
4. Rinse thoroughly and run the straw brush through each straw.
5. Rinse again and dry completely.

Baking Soda + Vinegar Soak

1. Place straws in a tall glass.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda and fill with white vinegar.
3. Let fizz and soak for 15 minutes.
4. Scrub with the straw brush, rinse thoroughly, and dry.

Cleaning by Straw Type

Metal (Stainless Steel) Straws

• Dishwasher safe — place in the cutlery basket
• Hand wash with straw brush after every use for best results
• Check for rust spots — surface rust can be removed with a baking soda paste

Silicone Straws

• Dishwasher safe (top rack)
• Flexible — can be turned inside out for cleaning if the design allows
• May absorb odors over time — use the denture tablet soak monthly

Glass Straws

• Dishwasher safe
• Transparent — easy to see if the interior is clean
• Handle carefully — glass straws can crack if dropped or exposed to sudden temperature changes

Bamboo Straws

• Hand wash only — never put in the dishwasher
• Rinse immediately after use and dry completely
• Oil occasionally with food-grade mineral oil to prevent cracking
• Replace when you notice cracking, splintering, or persistent mold

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my reusable straw is clean inside?

Hold it up to the light and look through — you should see clearly through the interior with no dark residue or film. If you see buildup, run the straw brush through again and repeat the cleaning process.

My reusable straw smells musty. What should I do?

Soak in a denture tablet solution overnight, then scrub with the straw brush and rinse thoroughly. If the smell persists in a silicone straw, it may have absorbed odors permanently — replace it.

How often should I replace reusable straws?

Metal and glass straws last indefinitely with proper care. Silicone straws should be replaced when they develop persistent odors or visible discoloration. Bamboo straws typically last 6–12 months with regular use.