The stryo杯, often shortened to straw sippy cup, is a type of sippee cup that came into common use during the late 1970s. It gained popularity for being a convenient and practical alternative to the traditional sippee cup, which typically features a valved straw that allows for the sipping of liquids. Instead, the stryo cup uses a soft, flexible, and usually round straw that allows children to吸吮 without the risk of the cup spilling.
The stryo cup, named after its distinctive wide straw, was invented by Forrest Mars, the co-founder of Mars, Inc. It is said that Mars came up with the idea for the cup while dining with his family at a restaurant in Idaho Falls, Idaho, USA. The design was meant to address the issue of spillage that plagues traditional sippee cups, which were prone to leakages when the straw was extracted or when the cup was knocked over.
Straw sippy cups are typically made of silicone or other food-grade plastics, and they feature a wide, soft, and flexible straw that is placed within the cup itself. The straw is often reinforced with a wire or plastic core to increase its rigidity and durability. Some models also feature a valve at the end of the straw to prevent liquids from overflowing when the cup is picked up, but many believe the valve affects the ease of drinking.
In terms of design, stryo cups come in a wide range of colors and patterns, often catering to children's tastes and preferences. They can be found in a variety of sizes, with some models suitable for infants as young as 6 months old. As a result, stryo cups are widely recommended for use by children who are just beginning to learn to drink from a straw, helping to facilitate the transition from milk or formula to solid food.
One advantage of the stryo cup is its ease of cleaning, as the entire straw and cup can typically be removed for washing in the sink. This can help reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and makes it easier to perform routine cleanups. Additionally, many stryo cups are designed with small mouths in mind, with shapes and sizes that make them easy for young children to grasp and sip from.
Despite their popularity and functionality, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. For example, the stryo straw can sometimes be pulled out of the cup by young children, which may lead to spills and potential dental issues from soft foods. Furthermore, the wide straw of the stryo cup can sometimes trap food particles, making it more difficult to clean completely.
Overall, the stryo cup represents a significant advancement in the field of sippee cups. While it may not be suitable for all children or all purposes, it is generally recognized as a safe, practical, and effective option for introducing children to the world of sippees. Ultimately, the choice of cup will depend on individual preferences, needs, and parenting styles.
