Metal straws have been growing steadily in popularity for some time now. Many people prefer them to classic plastic straws as they can be cleaned and reused instead of thrown out after one use. This makes them not only more eco-friendly but will actually save you money in the long run; it’s a one time purchase instead of a recurring item on your grocery list. They also don’t wear down nearly as easily as plastic straws. Many people also find metal straws to be thicker and more insulated than plastic straws, which make them ideal for hot and cold drinks alike. Try out these metal straws we recommend in your favorite drinks.

What to Look for in a Metal Straw

Here’s what to consider when buying metal straws for your drinks:

• Size: Standard straws are about 8 inches long, which is the length that will suit most people. However, you can find longer or shorter options depending on the size of your cups or mugs. The standard straw width, about 0.3 inches, should work for most beverages. However, there are extra-wide options for thicker drinks, like frappuccinos, milkshakes, and bubble tea. Make sure the width will fit in your lid’s hole as well.
• Sets: It’s not impossible to buy a singular metal straw, but most will come in sets. The sets can be a worthwhile investment since they’ll save you even more money in the long run and are great for those buying for the whole family. You can also sometimes get bonus accessories with a set, like a travel case.
• Shape: Reusable straws come in two shapes, completely straight or with a bend towards the top. The difference is mostly an aesthetic or personal preference, though it is worth noting that straight straws are easier to clean with a brush.
• Extra Features: Check to make sure your metal straw is dishwasher safe (most will be), and some will come included with a cleaning brush for a quick scrub directly after use. Other metal straws are collapsible, some are scratchproof, and some have a rounded tip on one end to give your lips and teeth a little protection. You can also get straws that are more colorful or have colorful additions if you want to add a little flair, color-code your drinks, or match them to your favorite mug.

Top Choice: Kichwit Extra Long Stainless Steel Straws

This set of eight reusable straws are made of rust-resistant, scratchproof, and durable stainless steel, so they never rust in either the dishwasher or in your drinks. The rounded edges of the straws are smooth to the touch and you won’t need to worry about cutting your lip or teeth by mistake. Four straws are straight and four are curved, so you’ll have plenty of whichever design you prefer. Both designs are dishwasher safe and extra wide for thicker beverages. Two cleaning brushes and eight colored end pieces are included as well.

Best Value: StrawExpert Set of 16 Reusable Stainless Steel Straws

 

This set gives you 16 straws of two different lengths and styles, plus 16 colorful silicone caps, four cleaning brushes, and a carrying case, all for one low price. The stainless steel straws are of the top quality so they won’t dull over time and are strong and durable but not too heavy. Both the straws and silicone caps are BPA-, lead-, and plastic-free as well as non-toxic, rust-resistant, and dishwasher safe. The silicone covers help protect your teeth and lips from scalding hot and freezing cold drinks. They can be easily removed, and the smooth rounded tips of the straws won’t cut your mouth even without them. The variance in straw size and shape will guarantee that you have a straw to fit any mug, water bottle, cup, or tumbler you own. These are available in three other colors besides silver.

Best Collapsible: Funbiz Collapsible Stainless Steel Straws

Here’s a great metal straw choice for those who are always on the go. Each of the three straws in the set can be adjusted in size, as short as 4 inches and extending almost to 9.5 inches at maximum length. This allows them to fit in cups, mugs, and tumblers as small as 10 ounces and as large as 30 ounces. The straws are also fully collapsible and, when shrunk down, each can fit into one of the accompanying three keychain carabiners alongside one of the three cleaning brushes for easy, lightweight, and convenient transportation. The carabiners can be stored in your pocket, bag, or clipped onto a belt or keychain. Six removable silicone tips and three plastic cases also come included. The straws are stainless steel and dishwasher safe.

Best Colored Design: HIWARE Reusable Rainbow Steel Straws

These metal straws are ideal for big glasses of thick, dense drinks like milkshakes and smoothies. The 10-inch length will reach to the bottom of any cup, the nine-millimeter width is extra wide, and the stainless steel will keep your drinks tasting cold longer. The bright and attractive rainbow-colored straws are food grade, free of BPA and lead, dishwasher safe, and won’t leave you with a metallic aftertaste. They also won’t fade over time, bend, scratch, or rust. They can also be hand washed with the two included cleaning brushes. A cute carrying case comes with the set as well so you can take your reusable straws with you wherever you go, from work to class to happy hour.