The Importance of the Straw

January 3rd was National Straw Day!

Straws play a vital role in my life, because I wouldn't be able to enjoy any beverages without them. As a little girl, a straw became one of the assistive tools I knew I was always going to need. Before long, I began to carry them wherever I went. Since it’s a critical tool for me, I decided to research how straws came to into existence. Imagine my surprise when I learned my “beloved piece of plastic” was originally created to slurp milkshakes. Milkshakes are by far one of my favorite treats!

Fun fact about me; drinking milkshakes through a straw was one of the speech therapy methods used to teach me to swallow. Drinking through a straw helps strengthen the muscles in your mouth. So, this was one kind of physical therapy that turned out to be a refreshing exercise!

Being a lover of the straw has also helped me develop what I call, “The Straw Intuitive”. I’m here to tell you that not all straws are equal.

Crazy straws with loops may be pretty look at, but they are very hard to sip from. By the time I get a beverage through the loops, I’m too exhausted to drink from it. In my opinion, crazy straws are only fun drink from on special occasions.

The world has Joseph Friedman to thank for Bendable straws. The design is nice because it can serve many purposes. For people with disabilities who have difficulty controlling their head, a bendable straw can be a lifesaver since its flexibility makes it easy to position in the way that’s most comfortable for the user.

Paper and metal straws are the worst in my book. I’ve noticed many restaurants and other establishments have moved towards using paper straws. I’m all for reducing plastic waste, but when someone like me depends on a straw, paper straws just don’t cut it. They collapse easily when liquid hits them. As far as metal straws go, they just straight up hurt when they hit the roof of your mouth.

In my 52 years, I’ve found my favorite straw is the one you find at a fast-food joint. They’re sturdy and you can sip anything through those babies.

I hope after reading this post you have a new appreciation for straws and their helpful purpose. Thanks to the straw, I’m a happy sipper!