Size Guide for Plastic Straws

by Venkat Erpina

When it comes to serving drinks, choosing the right straw size can make a big difference in your customers' experience. Whether you're offering smoothies, bubble tea, or iced coffee, each type of beverage benefits from a straw tailored to its texture and ingredients. In this blog, we’ll break down four popular plastic straw sizes L9” 6MM, L9” 8MM, L9” 12MM, and L11” 12MM so you can confidently choose the best fit for your drinks.

L9” 6MM Plastic Straws
Best for: Water, Soda, Iced Coffee, Juice
 

These standard-size straws are the go-to option for most beverages. At 9 inches long and 6mm in diameter, they’re perfect for sipping thinner drinks commonly found in cafes, restaurants, and fast-food chains. Their slim design makes them great for paper-wrapped presentation, and they’re a cost-effective choice for high-volume service.

Why Choose 6MM?

  • Easy to drink
  • Fits most cup lids
  • Ideal for kids' beverages or on-the-go drinks
L9"8MM Plastic Straws
Best for: Iced Coffee, Milkshakes, Slushies, Smoothies

 

The 8mm straw is a step up in diameter, allowing for a smoother flow for thicker drinks. It’s the sweet spot for drinks that are more viscous than juice but don’t contain chunky ingredients. This size is popular in smoothie shops and cafes that serve blended or slushy beverages.

Why Choose 8MM?

  • Smooth supping for thicker drinks
  • Compatible with flat lids and dome lids

L9"12MM Plastic Straws
Best for: Bubble Tea, Smoothies with Chunks, Fruit Teas with Toppings

   

At a wide 12mm diameter, these straws are built for drinks with add-ins—think tapioca pearls (boba), fruit jellies, or pudding. They allow toppings to pass through easily, making them essential for bubble tea shops. The 9-inch length fits standard boba cups and ensures a balanced experience from start to finish.

Why Choose 12MM?

  • Perfect for boba and toppings
  • Offers a satisfying sip of any pieces in your drink
L11"12MM
Best for: Extra Tall Boba Drinks, Milkshakes in Large Cups, Layered Drinks

With the same 12mm wide diameter as the standard boba straw but two inches longer, the L11” 12MM straw is made for tall cups and extra-large drinks. It ensures the straw reaches the bottom of your tall containers, allowing customers to enjoy every last sip—pearls and all.

Why Choose L11"12MM

  • Great for 24oz+ Drinks
  • Reaches deeper into longer cups
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