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Best Reusable Chopsticks – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
By Greeny Last Updated:
When enjoying certain Asian delicacies, using chopsticks can greatly add to the experience. Even more than that: Having been around for over 5000 years, these useful tools have truly become ingrained in our collective consciousness. It is no surprise, then, that there are large numbers of manufacturers producing chopstick products of all types imaginable. With that in mind, this guide will go over five of the best reusable chopsticks on the market. In addition, it will provide useful information about chopsticks in general. Hopefully, this information will help you decide the best product for your particular needs.
Those who are looking for versatility, variety, and durability would be well-advised to look into this product. Including chopsticks made of both metal and high-quality bamboo, the Hiware 10-Pair Reusable Chopsticks can be used in different situations with outstanding results. Sleek and elegant, these tools wouldn’t be out of place in a luxurious dinner with an Asian theme. In addition, they are ergonomic and very easy to use even for beginners.
Metallic Chopsticks
The metallic chopsticks included in this set are made of stainless steel of the highest quality. Thoroughly polished and brushed, this material feels incredibly smooth to the touch. Because metal tends to be more slippery than organic materials, these chopsticks also have a non-slip design that prevents difficulties and accidents from taking place when beginners use them. The best thing about these chopsticks, though, is that they are heat resistant and can be cleaned in a dishwasher.
Bamboo Chopsticks
Regarding the bamboo chopsticks included in this set, it can be said that they feel and look great. Completely polished and smooth, they are a joy to have in your hands. Additionally, they feature traditional Chinese floral art that only adds to their elegance and warmth. As if all that was not enough, these chopsticks have subtle indentations on their top part, making them easier to use for beginners and preventing accidental slips.
Other Considerations
Unfortunately, these chopsticks release a strong chemical smell at first. However, that smell goes away gradually. At any rate, whether they are made of stainless steel or bamboo, the chopsticks included in this set by Hiware have been expertly made, ensuring durability and reliability for years. In addition, they are free of BPA, PVC and phthalates.
Pros
Includes two different types of chopsticks
Made of durable, high-quality materials
Anti-slip design
Does not contains BPA, PVC or phthalates
Dishwasher safe
Cons
Varnish produces a strong smell
Stainless steel chopsticks have some amount of metallic taste
Expertly built using organic bamboo of the highest quality available, the Mannice Reusable Chopsticks is an effective, durable and reliable product. Apart from being strong and durable, the bamboo used to make these chopsticks is eco-friendly and bacteria-resistant, making them healthy for you and the planet. Expertly manufactured, the Mannice Reusable Chopsticks have a consistent size, a smooth surface and a precise blunt tip that is great for picking up large pieces of food.
Durability
Without a doubt, one of the best things about high-quality bamboo chopsticks is their durability. Apart from being naturally tough and resistant to breakage, bamboo does not swell due to water absorption. Having that to their advantage, the Mannice Reusable Chopsticks can be reused hundreds of times without losing structural integrity. Of course, to ensure maximum durability, it’s important to wash these chopsticks properly and with regularity.
Safety Features
Because they are in constant contact with your food and your mouth, it’s imperative that chopsticks are safe. As previously mentioned, one of the most notable characteristics of the Mannice Reusable Chopsticks is durability. This doesn’t only mean that they won’t break but also that they won’t split, eliminating the possibility of injuries as a result. In addition, these chopsticks are bacteria-resistant and BPA-free.
Overall
Considering their high quality, durability and affordability, there is no doubt that the Mannice Reusable Chopsticks can be a great choice. In particular, people who use chopsticks on a daily basis will benefit from the product’s simplicity, practicality and efficiency. At the same time, being easy to use and very ergonomic, they can be a great choice for beginners who want to become acquainted with the use of traditional Chinese chopsticks.
If you are a Star Wars fan or you are looking for a set of chopsticks that is unique, colorful and fun, this may be the best choice you can make. Featuring LED lights the shape and design of classic lightsabers from the movie franchise, the ChopSabers Lightsaber Chopsticks can make a fan’s day. Apart from looking great, these chopsticks are surprisingly ergonomic and easy to use. As if that wasn’t enough, they are BPA-free and mold-resistant.
Design
There is no doubt that the most notable thing about this product is its whimsical design. Carefully based on the real lightsabers featured in the movies, these chopsticks are realistic enough to make even the most passionate Star Wars fan happy. The set includes two pairs of chopsticks: one red and one blue. Amazingly, each chopstick has a LED light that uses LR41 batteries to function. Without a doubt, they can enhance the fun of any meal.
Ergonomics
Despite being shaped like lightsabers, these chopsticks are remarkably ergonomic and easy to use. In fact, they can be a great way for Star Wars fans with no experience handling chopsticks to get some practice. Featuring a top portion with a textured surface, they do not slip from your fingers with ease. The fact that they are exceptionally long (10.25 inches) only adds to their ease of use and versatility.
Material Quality
Taking into consideration that the ChopSabers Lightsaber Chopsticks are novelty items, it can be said that their material quality is reasonable. Of course, being made of plastic, they are not as resistant or durable as other chopstick products out there. Worse than that, because they have a built-in electric system that allows the LED lights to turn on, they can’t be washed normally, much less in the dishwasher.
Those who are looking for a set of affordable high-quality chopsticks that can be reused indefinitely would be wise to look into this product. Made of pure fiberglass, the Hiware 10-Pair Fiberglass Chopsticks are lightweight, smooth and practically unbreakable. In addition, they are resistant to heat and dishwasher-friendly, resulting in practicality and convenience.
Ease of Use
In comparison to most other chopstick products out there, the Hiware 10-Pair Fiberglass Chopsticks are remarkably easy to use. Despite featuring a circular shape, they are not slippery in the least. Apart from the material itself and its treatment, this has to do with the non-slip patterns that decorate the superior portion of each chopstick. What is more, their design helps them roll between your fingers with great precision, allowing you to improve your hold easily whenever is needed.
Ease of Cleaning
One of the biggest problems with wooden and bamboo chopsticks is that their cleaning can be difficult. Luckily, fiberglass is a healthy material that, without requiring lacquer or any other treatment, has a smooth surface which facilitates the cleaning process. Without pores, these chopsticks are not at risk of becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. Additionally, they are BPA-free and completely resistant to heat, allowing you to use the dishwasher to get them cleaned and ready to be reused.
Style and Elegance
Despite being remarkably affordable, the Hiware 10-Pair Fiberglass Chopsticks are remarkably sleek and elegant. Dark, smooth and beautifully decorated, these chopsticks truly stand out among regular wooden ones. Even though they do not feature lacquer of paint of any kind, their finish is impeccably stylish. As a result, they can be used in a variety of situations, including fancy dinners and reunions. Even better, due to being made of pure fiberglass, these chopsticks do not wear down or become damaged over time.
When the time comes to enjoy some of the best Japanese delicacies, using a good pair of Japanese-style chopsticks is a must. If you share this opinion with me, it may serve you well to check out the Sea Songbei Japanese Style Bamboo Chopsticks. Made of carefully chosen Nanzhu bamboo, these chopsticks look and feel great. Also, combining a rectangular head, a rounded tail, and a tapered tip, they are incredibly easy to use and effective when it comes to picking up small pieces of food.
Material and Treatment
As previously mentioned, these chopsticks are made of Nanzhu bamboo of the highest quality. This material has many advantages, including durability, anti-splintering properties, and anti-bacterial properties. That was not enough for the manufacturers, however, because they decided to also use a high-temperature carbonization and dehydration process on these chopsticks, greatly extending their durability and making them resistant to mildew and water swelling.
Style
As you already know, the Sea Songbei Style Bamboo Chopsticks feature a traditional Japanese style that lends itself well to that country’s style of food. That is not all, though, as these chopsticks also feature a beautiful decorative design on their top segment. Of course, this design is reminiscent of traditional Japan. Because it doesn’t come in contact with the food, the paint used to decorate the chopsticks will not transfer to your food by accident.
Pros
Made of pure Nanzhu bamboo
Resistant to mildew
Smooth and polished surface
Does not split
Does not include BPA, PVC or phthalates
Cons
Strong paint smell
The Best Reusable Chopsticks – A Buyer’s Guide
What to Take Into Account Before Buying Reusable Chopsticks
If you want to find the right reusable chopsticks for you, there are various factors that you need to take into consideration. Before making a purchase, carefully read the following points:
Materials
There are many differences in quality, usability, and durability between chopstick models. Without a doubt, one of the most important factors is the material that is used to make the chopsticks. Take the following into account:
Bamboo: By and large, bamboo is the most commonly used material for making chopsticks. It has various advantages, including durability, resilience, compatibility with water and natural bacteria-fighting properties. Besides, they are very lightweight, making their use easier and less straining. It should be noted, though, that, in order to maintain their strength, bamboo chopsticks should be rubbed down with mineral oils from time to time.
Untreated wood: Because it’s fragile and flimsy, untreated wood should only be used to make disposable chopsticks. Even worse than that, untreated wood can harbor and promote the growth of bacteria. Being extremely porous, this material is impossible to properly clean and sterilize. For that reason, using untreated wood chopsticks more than once is a health hazard.
Treated wood: Some manufacturers make chopsticks out of wood that is then lacquered in order to be reusable. The lacquer prevents bacteria and mold from forming in the wood’s pores. At the same time, it prevents water from bloating the wood. It should be noted, though, that lacquered chopsticks need to be washed with care to prevent the lacquer from becoming dislodged and tainting the food that is being consumed.
Fiberglass: Without a doubt, fiberglass has many advantages that make it a great material for manufacturing chopsticks. To start with, it’s almost unbreakable, greatly adding to the product’s durability. In addition, fiberglass is easy to clean, resistant to bacteria and mold growth and naturally non-slippery.
Steel and titanium: Incredibly tough and durable, chopsticks made of steel and titanium will last a lifetime. Apart from being practically indestructible, they are resistant to heat and machine-washable. On the other hand, though, chopsticks made of steel and titanium tend to be slippery. Additionally, they have a metallic feel and taste that some people find difficult to get used to.
Plastic: Plastic chopsticks are practical and convenient. Also, they are very affordable, and they can be machine washed. However, they tend to be very flimsy and easily breakable. Worse than that, they tend to have a cheap look and feel.
Shape
There are two main chopstick shapes available: rectangular and circular. Rectangular chopsticks are generally less slippery and easier to use. For that reason, they are better for beginners. On the other hand, after you have had time to practice, circular chopsticks are more comfortable and ergonomic than rectangular chopsticks.
Tip Type
When it comes to chopstick tips, there are also two main types. On one hand, you have blunted tips. These tips are broader and allow more pressure to be applied to the food without breaking it. As a result, they are better for larger pieces of food. On the other hand, you have tapered tips. These tips are more delicate, making them better for picking up small pieces of food.
Extras
Certain chopstick sets include additional elements such as holders, bases and so on. Without a doubt, these extras can be helpful and enjoyable. However, they do not compensate for a product that is low-quality or inefficient.
How to Use Chopsticks
Step 1: Pick up one chopstick with your dominant hand. Place it in the spot between your thumb and your pointer finger. Let it rest on your ring finger. Use said ring finger to move and balance the chopstick. Make sure to have a very loose grip, allowing movement.
Step 2: Once the first chopstick is secured and balanced, pick up the second chopstick. Place it between your pointer finger and thumb parallel to the first chopstick. However, let this chopstick rest on your middle finger and not your ring finger.
Step 3: Using your thumb, pointer and middle fingers, clasp the chopsticks securely. Make sure they have loose and independent movement.
Step 4: At this point, the most important thing is to realize that the bottom chopstick that is resting on your ring finger should remain more or less stationary. Using your index and middle finger, move the second chopstick, pulling it away from the first one and then bringing it back to its original position.
Step 5: Now that you can effectively open and close your chopstick setup, it’s time to give it a go. Pull the second chopstick away from the first one using your middle and index fingers. Then, close them over the food. Once you have a good grip, pull it up to your mouth and enjoy it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Are Some Chopsticks Slippery?
Depending on their shape and the material they are made of, some chopsticks may be more slippery than others. Circular chopsticks, for example, are more slippery than rectangular ones. Similarly, metallic chopsticks tend to be more slippery than those made of bamboo, fiberglass or wood. It should be noted, though, that this ceases to be a problem as soon as you get some practice eating with chopsticks in general.
Are Lacquered Chopsticks Safe for Human Use?
Lacquered chopsticks are safe for human use as long as the lacquer does not peel off. If this happens, tiny pieces of lacquer may be ingested by whoever is using the chopsticks, potentially causing illness and even death. To prevent this, it’s incredibly important to wash lacquered chopsticks by hand and with extra care. Additionally, it’s important to check them periodically for any signs of peeling. If a lacquered chopstick starts peeling, throw it away immediately.
Can Wooden Chopsticks Be Reused?
It depends on the type of wooden chopstick. If it’s made of raw wood, it’s a disposable chopstick and should be thrown away after the first use. As previously mentioned, the reason for this is that untreated wood has thousands of tiny pores where bacteria may inevitably grow. If the wood has been lacquered, though, you can reuse a set of chopsticks as long as you follow the instructions provided earlier in this guide.
Whether bamboo constitutes wood or not is debatable. In any case, it’s an organic material and, as such, it’s susceptible to bacteria growth. However, bamboo has bacteria-fighting properties that make it a better option than raw wood. When reusing bamboo chopsticks, though, it’s important to treat them regularly with oils. If you don’t, they may dry out and become damaged over time.
Can You Wash Chopsticks In a Dishwasher?
Long story short, it depends on the material that the chopsticks are made of. Materials like fiberglass, titanium and stainless steel are completely dishwasher-safe. On the other hand, lacquered wood and bamboo chopsticks can’t be dishwashed. The reason is that the heat of the appliance would make the lacquer crack and peel, effectively ruining the chopsticks.
What Are the Differences Between Chinese and Japanese Chopsticks?
Traditionally, there are two nations that have used chopsticks for thousands of years: China and Japan. Speaking in broad terms, it can be said that Chinese and Japanese chopsticks are the same. However, there are certain key differences between them.
Typically, Japanese chopsticks are shorter than Chinese chopsticks. They also tend to have tapered tips, making them more efficient at picking up small pieces of food than their Chinese counterparts. Normally, Japanese chopsticks are made of wood or bamboo.
Apart from being longer, Chinese chopsticks tend to have a blunt tip, making them more suitable for picking up large pieces of food. They are also thicker than Japanese chopsticks. More often than not, they feature a rectangular shape as well.
In Conclusion
Having gone over the features and characteristics of these five products, it is easy to see why they are so widely-used and well-liked. Easy to use, durable, resistant and washable, each one of these reusable chopsticks can help make your life a little better and more enjoyable. At any rate, though, only you can make the final choice. Hopefully, this buyer’s guide will help you make the one.
Summary
Article Name
Best Reusable Chopsticks - Eco Review & Buyer’s Guide
Description
Humanity annually turns billions of chopsticks into the garbage. Stop that! They are easily reused.
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