How do you clean a straw cup properly?

Take the straw cup fully apart after every use and rinse it straight away. Clean the straw and the valve separately with a narrow brush. Let all the parts dry while they are still separated. Residue then never gets a chance to build up.

Why the straw needs the most attention

A straw is narrow, dark and often damp. That is exactly where milk, juice and yoghurt drinks cling on. Rinse only the cup and the inside of the straw stays dirty.

You notice it as a musty smell or dark specks inside the straw. Throw that straw away and replace it. A spare straw for the straw cup is sold separately.

Cleaning the cup step by step

Start by removing the lid, the straw and the valve. Tip away any leftover drink immediately. Rinse everything with cold water first, because hot water bakes milk onto the surface.

Then wash every part in hot soapy water. Run a narrow brush through the straw. Rinse with clean water and let the parts dry separately on a clean cloth.

The dishwasher is fine if the cup is suitable for it. Put small parts in a cutlery basket. The straw stays a hand job, since water never properly reaches the inside.

Juice and squash need the same care as milk. Sugars stick to the inner wall of the straw. Water is simply the easiest option when you are out.

What to avoid

Never leave a cup of milk sitting in a bag for hours. Milk turns sour quickly and the smell settles into the silicone. Rinse it right away, even if washing up has to wait.

Do not use sharp objects to clear a straw. Scratches inside give bacteria more to hold on to. A soft brush works better and damages nothing.

Silicone and plastic parts handle hot soapy water well. Browse the Difrax cups and cutlery to see which parts of your cup come apart.

When to replace parts

A straw does not last forever, especially if your child chews on it. Replace it when you see discolouring, small cracks or a lingering smell. A soft, tired valve goes the same way.

Not sure the cup still suits your child's age? Read our guide to choosing a straw cup for a toddler.

One habit saves the most work. Rinse the cup as soon as you get home, before you unpack the bag. Then you never have to scrub later.

Frequently asked questions

How do you clean the straw of a cup?

Pull the straw out and rinse it with cold water straight away. Then use a narrow brush with hot soapy water. Let the straw dry separately.

Can a straw cup go in the dishwasher?

Usually yes, if the packaging says so. Place loose parts in the cutlery basket. The straw is best cleaned by hand alongside.

How often should you replace the straw?

As soon as you spot discolouring, cracks or bite marks. With daily use that comes round faster than you expect. Keep a spare straw at home.