Metal straws are in fashion, but how exactly do they clean? Do not worry, we have a simple process, step by step.
First, let's talk about why plastic straws are gradually being replaced by metal versions. Until recently, most of us did not think much about plastic straws. After all, compared to other daily activities, it was hard to imagine that this little piece of disposable plastic could have a dramatic impact on anything, let alone our environment.
To combine the estimates of 1.6 Straw Ocean Conservancy, this is the average number of people a person uses each day and starts to add up. According to a report published by Phys.org in 2018, scientists estimate that around 7.5 million plastic straws are scattered along the coasts of the United States , from $ 437 million to $ 8.3 billion across the world
Related: The 10 Best Metal Straws on Amazon.com
Even though they are small on their own, they weigh about 1/67 ounces, all about 2,000 tons. Due to its small size, this disposable plastic product can be particularly harmful to marine life.
Not so long ago I was in a restaurant with a friend and we could not close our eyes to the next table as we were obsessed with this woman's foldable and reusable straw . When I saw it in public, I realized how easy it was to put one in my pocket. Even if you save a day's straw, you can reduce overall environmental risks.
Related: Green products that help protect the environment on Earth Day (and every day)
Last October, I bought a set of Klean Kanteen steel straws ($ 9.99 for four straws, including a cleaning brush) from Amazon and took one in a small cloth bag. It's surprising to see what reactions I received from other people when I use them, from friends who admit that they feel guilty about using TSA agents at the airport, a plastic that has bombarded me with questions from where they could get them after they saw them. looking in my pocket
But the most important effect is what he did to me. I literally shudder when I see the plastic straws. Something that felt so widespread has become a red flag that earnestly recalls the carbon footprint of each of our little actions.
Related: The Last Straw: These restaurants join Starbucks to stop the use of plastic straw
The idea of a reusable straw, however, as a self-healing germ cell, is also a new concern. Because if you ride something all day, it is dedicated to collecting germs. That's why we've talked to a germ expert and an environmental influencer to find the best ways to keep your metal straw clean.
How to clean metal straws at home
"Metal straws are a great way to contribute to sustainability and reduce the use of plastic, but like any other metal object such as a fork or spoon, you should clean them when using them," said Jason Tetro , author of The Germ Code and The Germ Files and better known as "The Germ Guy," he tells Parade.com .
Although it seems innate, it leads us through the process:
- Treat it like any other utensil and concentrate on the end that enters your mouth. "From a distance, the area that comes into contact with our mouth will be the most contaminated," he says.
- But do not treat the other end lightly. "They can be contaminated with the beverage if it is not pasteurized or distilled, such as fruit juices and smoothies," adds Tetro.
- The best way to clean them is to use hot water and soap. (For scientists, this study shows why.) Reusable straws are often supplied with a fine brush to thoroughly cleanse the interior.
- Alternatively disinfectant wipes or hand disinfectants work, but the disadvantage is the remaining residue. "Get ready for a bitter taste later!" Warn if you decide this way.
- Consistency is the key. "You should clean it after each use, but you can probably get away with it every day," says Tetro. "If you leave it for longer, there is a chance that the amount of bacteria will increase, which may not cause infection, but could alter the taste, smell, and visual aesthetics of the straw."
- Do not forget to keep the straw properly. "Once the straw is completely cleaned and dried, you do not have to worry about contamination," he says. "Dark and cool places are the best."
This keeps the metal straw always clean
For those who are moving the metal straw, these options may not always be possible. Then we turn to Kathryn Kellogg , founder of GoingZeroWaste.com and author of 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste , for ideas.
"I roll my straw on a cloth napkin, which is very convenient and prevents paper products from going off ," says Kellogg, who also uses @ ing.zero.waste in Instagram. "You can also use the cloth to dry your hands after washing, to clean your nose, or to eat a snack like a sandwich or cake on the way."
Tetro proposes another method. "The best way to transport your straw is in one of these toothbrush travel containers, make sure it's long enough!
Related: Why garbage can simplify your life, says Kathryn Kellogg, Zero Waste Expert
When it comes to keeping away these germs when using reusable straw in a cafeteria or restaurant: "Just go to the bathroom and wash it with hot water if you can, or ask your friendly barista to warm it up Do it with water, you do not need soap, "says Tetro.
Although the habit of using and cleaning a metal straw seems tedious at first, the more we integrate this practice into our lives, the more we can have an impact on the environment.
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