Bamboo is a fantastic material and in comparison to alternatives that are used for making straws, it is superior in pretty much every way. Plastic which is commonly used to make straws is bad for the environement, and whilst paper straw alternatives have seen a rise in popularity, these are not liked very much by consumers because of how they can become soggy in your drink and become unusable rather quickly.
Bamboo however is strong, naturally growing, antibacterial, antifungal, and is of course reusable which makes for the perfect straw! For this project, you will need a pencil, bamboo cane, a ruler, scissors, sandpaper, drill, a handsaw, and some type of metal rod.
How to Make Bamboo Straws
1. Measure 15cms on the bamboo cane, mark it with your pencil and then carefull cut the cane with the handsaw.
2. Using your drill, go through the center of the bamboo on both sides to remove all of the inner pith. Afterwards, go back through with your metal rod to remove excess.
3. Take a piece of course sandpaper and sand until smooth or desired to remove rough edges and green bamboo. You can of course use a fine sandpaper after to finish it nicely.
4. Detoxify the bamboo in a boiling salt water solution, cook and change the water 2-3 times until the water becomes more clean.
5. Remove the straw from the water and let them dry naturally, to finish the straws you could use a little coconut oil, this is optional but will help them last longer. To care for your straws, hand wash them in warm water, and use a cleaning brush or rod.
Bamboo Straws - Frequently Asked Questions
How to clean bamboo straws?
It’s advised to boil clean bamboo straws in a little salt and vinegar before using them for the first time, this helps to remove the ‘woody’ aroma. After each use, rinse under the tap and use the cleaning rod provided.
Which variety of bamboo is used to make straws?
the variety of bamboo that is used to make bamboo straws is called pseudostachyum.
How long do bamboo straws last?
One bamboo straw can be washed hundreds of times, and jungle straws come in a pack of twelves which ensures many months or years of use before they need replacing. Of course, this depends on how well you look after them.
How to store bamboo straws?
Making sure that you store them right will allow them to last even longer. Store your straws in a well-ventilated place, never in an airtight container, a jute storage pouch does just the thing!
Can bamboo straws be used with hot drinks?
Bamboo does not conduct heat and so they are suitable for use with hot and cold drinks.
Can bamboo straws be used with bubble milk tea?
As long as the hole is big enough to suck up the tapioca pearls you will be able to use it. The leading manufacturer of bamboo straws has sets of 12 available and jungle straws come in mixed sizes which will ensure that some will be suitable for milk tea.
Are they dishwasher safe?
Yes, they are 100% dishwasher safe however you should turn off the hot and dry function and dry them immediately.
Bamboo straw vs reed straw?
Both straws have a natural origin, for example, bamboo comes the bamboo plant (Bambusoideae) whereas reed straws are made from wheat stems. Both straws are durable, are biodegradable and have similar qualities.
Why bamboo is the best?
Bamboo is the best material because it’s naturally eco-friendly, sustainable, and safe for both people and the planet. As the fastest-growing plant on Earth, it needs no chemicals or fertilizers and is fully biodegradable. Unlike plastic or paper, which create waste or involve harsh processing, bamboo leaves a minimal environmental footprint and is free from carcinogens and toxins.
Its strength and durability—used even for scaffolding in Asia—make it reusable and long-lasting. Bamboo is naturally anti-odor, antibacterial, and antifungal, making it clean and safe. Its unique grain adds charm, making it ideal for personalised, eco-conscious gifts.
