Wooden straws are a sustainable alternative to plastic straws, which can take hundreds of years to decompose and pollute our oceans. Making your own wooden straws at home is easy and a fun DIY project. In this article, we will discuss the different types of wood that are best for making wooden straws and the process of making them.
Which wood should you use for wooden straws?
First, let’s talk about the types of wood that are best for making wooden straws. Bamboo is a popular choice because it is a fast-growing, renewable resource. It is also naturally resistant to bacteria and mold, making it a safe choice for drinking. Other good options include cherry, maple, and birch wood.
When selecting wood for your straws, it is important to choose straight, knot-free pieces with a smooth surface. This will make the sanding and polishing process much easier and ensure a smooth finish on your straws.
The process of making straws out of wood
Now, let’s move on to the process of making wooden straws. You will need a few basic tools such as a saw, sandpaper, and a drill. First, cut your wood into the desired length for your straws. Next, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges and surfaces. Once the wood is smooth, use a drill to make a hole in the center of one end of the straw. This hole should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the straw to ensure a tight fit.
Finally, use a polishing cloth or beeswax to give your straws a smooth, shiny finish. You can also use food-grade mineral oil to seal the wood and make it safe for drinking.
Overview: Step-by-Step guide
- Gather materials: bamboo wood, saw, sandpaper, a drill, and a straw cleaning brush.
- Cut the bamboo wood into 8-inch pieces using a saw.
- Sand down any rough edges or splinters on the bamboo pieces using sandpaper.
- Using a drill, make a hole in the center of one end of each bamboo piece. The hole should be slightly smaller in diameter than a standard straw brush.
- Insert a straw cleaning brush into the hole and use it to widen the hole to the desired diameter of the straw.
- Sand the inside of the straws to smooth out any rough edges or splinters.
- Repeat steps 3-6 for all bamboo pieces.
- Clean the bamboo straws thoroughly with soap and water before using.
Note: The steps above are for a simple and easy DIY method, but if you want to make sure that your bamboo straws are food safe, you should consider to use food grade glue to seal the edges of the drilled hole and to treat the bamboo with food grade oil or wax.
In conclusion, wooden straws are a great alternative to plastic straws and can be easily made at home. Bamboo, cherry, maple and birch wood are some of the best options for making wooden straws. With the right tools and a little bit of time, you can create your own sustainable straws and enjoy your drinks in a more eco-friendly way.