I recently discovered a straw that reduces the use of plastic. This allows, in part, to save the oceans. I tested it and here is my opinion:
What is FinalStraw?
It all started with Emma Rose Cohen. She is passionate about the environment and she acts for its protection. She holds a master's degree in environmental management and sustainable development. During these studies, along with her friends, she launched an environmental education program with the aim of educating children about the harmful effects of single-use plastics. In 2017, Emma Cohen began working on a project, FinalStraw, in the hopes of creating a sustainable alternative to disposable plastic straws. April 2018 marks the launch of funding for his project on Kickstarter. It's a successful $ 1.89 million is raised.
The FinalStraw team is made up of 5 full-time people. To this must be added the 13 self-employed workers. 18 members therefore make up the team.
FinalStraw is a reusable stainless steel straw, just wash it. Since its inception, more than 300,000 of these straws have been sold in more than 100 countries. This prevented the use of approximately 27 million single-use straws. On their site, it is possible to order their straw. For 24.50$, or about 22.20 €, the pack includes: a folding straw, a small brush to clean it and a small box to store everything. The box is available in 5 colors and the straw in 2: gray or rainbow. It is possible to get 10% discount by subscribing to their newsletter.
These straws have several advantages: being foldable, they are practical and easily transportable. A ring on the box allows it to be hung on a keychain. What's more, what is most important is that it reduces the use of plastic.
FinalStraw straw test
First reaction when receiving the straw, the box is really small, it does not take place (a little less than 7 cm high, about 2.5 cm wide and deep). Opening the box, we find the straw folded in four and the small brush row.
You just have to take out the straw, and it unfolds on its own. Once unfolded, the straw is around 22 cm. It is made up of 4 stainless steel tubes as well as a silicone tube which passes through the steel tubes. The brush to clean it is also well made, stored it is only 6 cm, it is made up of tubes that fit into each other. When unfolded, it is 14.5 cm. To clean the straw, you have to go from one side then the other.
The use is very easy. Unfold the straw, use it, then clean it. The result while drinking is similar to that with a normal straw. The only point that changes: the tips are made of silicone, which can be disturbing at first when it comes to feeling in the mouth. At the end of the use, all that remains is to wash it, which is quick and easy with the brush.
Conclusion
Personally, I validate this straw. Its small size makes it transportable everywhere. The theoretical high lifespan of the straw compensates for its rather large price. In addition, a real saving of plastics is made by drinking with FinalStraw, a good deed for the environment is carried out. It is also important to note that it is possible to buy back only a straw or a cleaning brush.
After, it will be necessary to see in time if the straw really lasts.
Other collapsible straws sell for less on sites such as Amazon or Cdiscount but they are counterfeit, so it's illegal. In addition, their quality may be poor. FinalStraw fights against these counterfeits and to date, has removed more than 20,000 thanks to a team dedicated to this cause. To act against this fraud, 3 entrepreneurs are hired.
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