Paper Straws vs Plastic Straws – Which Is Safer for Kids?

All of the decisions we make with kids feel a bit more important to us. Especially decisions that impact their health, and the world they are going to live in. One small item that has tremendous conversations attached to it is the drinking straw. It could be seeing kids sip juice boxes from long drinking straws at birthday parties, or using eco-friendly multi-colored straws to make crafts: kids use drinking straws a lot, to say the least.

But ultimately, which is safer for kids? Paper straws vs plastic straws; and on this blog, we will cover it all for you, including environmental impact, child safety issues, and the pros and cons of both!

Environmental Impact of Plastic and Paper Straws

Let's begin with the planet, because the decisions we make today will dictate the planet on which our children will be living tomorrow.

Plastic straws are inexpensive and tough, but they are not biodegradable; they can endure 200 years before breaking down, and often land, rivers, and oceans serve as their ultimate resting place. Millions of marine animals die every year due to the consequences of incorrectly ingesting or becoming entangled in the plastic straws we as consumers use and dispose of.

Paper straws - even better, compostable straws/eco-friendly straws - are a relatively rapid breakdown material compared with plastic straws, typically breaking down within weeks in industrial composting facilities. Many brands produce naturally sourced drinking straws that are also free of toxic chemicals and dyes, thereby making them safer for both the environment and your child.

Impact of Plastic Straws on Kids

Kids are inherently curious. They chew, flex, and sometimes even try to ingest the things they are using. And that is where plastic straws become a risk that kids have not been properly warned about. Here are some issues of concern:

• Chemical leaching. Plastic straws may contain BPA or phthalates that can leach into the drink they are in, particularly when heat is applied.
• Microplastics. Repeated use or degradation of the straws can lead to very small plastic particles finding their way into your child's body.

Paper straws that are generally used once and made from food-grade materials are safe. They are not splintering when used correctly, paper straws do not leach, usually do not contain synthetic dyes, and there are no additives.

Pros and Cons: Plastic Straws Vs Paper Straws

Best Alternatives to Plastic Straws

If you're interested in replacing flimsy plastic with safe alternatives for kids, here are some wonderful, eco-friendly alternatives that can be effective and sustainable. Specifically, we'd like to gently share a few eco-friendly options available to you from EcoSoul.

Paper Straws

• Made from biodegradable materials like Compostable paper.
• Safe for kids, uses no harmful chemicals or dyes
• EcoSoul's paper straws offer compostability and are made thicker to minimize falling apart too quickly
• Fun multicolor options available, great for kids' parties and everyday use!

Compostable PLA Straws

• Made from corn starch
• 100% compostable, safe for kids to chew (not recommended as a snack)
• EcoSoul's compostable PLA straws are a low-impact option, great with many beverages and a rustic, earthy look.

Reusable Options

• Stainless steel, bamboo, or silicone straws are great for older children and adults.
• While they aren't disposable, they are a good, long-term, sustainable option when disposed of responsibly.

We, at EcoSoul, are making it easier than ever to find straws that are safe for children and environmentally friendly. Smaller changes such as this can have a positive impact.

Conclusion

In terms of typing drinking straws, they are functionally equivalent. However, when it comes to safety for kids and sustainability, paper drinking straws are a winner! Paper drinking straws are chemical-free, eco-friendly, and biodegradable. So, they are safe for your child to use, and safe for you too!

If you are a little more determined, check out EcoSoul's selection of compostable straws - including multicolor paper straws, as well as natural and long drinking straws - you'll find all the safety, style, and sustainability you need to protect your family and the planet. Because, when it comes to protecting our kids and the planet, every little sip makes a difference.