The bombilla is the metal straw used to drink yerba mate. It acts as both a straw and a filter, allowing you to sip the liquid while keeping the yerba leaves inside the gourd.
Materials
| Material |
Durability |
Flavor Impact |
Best For |
| Stainless Steel |
Very durable |
Neutral |
Daily use, beginners, low maintenance |
| Alpaca (nickel silver) |
Moderate, can bend |
Neutral |
Decorative, gifting, traditional look |
| Bronze |
Durable |
Neutral |
Traditional, less common today |
| Wood |
Fragile |
Adds subtle flavor |
Decorative, rare |
Shapes
- Spoon bombilla — flat filter at the bottom, great for finely cut yerba.
- Spring bombilla — coil spring filter, works well with coarser yerba.
- Straight bombilla — simple design, easy to clean.
How to Choose
For beginners, a
stainless steel spoon bombilla is the best choice — durable, affordable, and works with any type of yerba mate. Want something more ornamental? See our guide to the
alpaca bombilla.
Tips
- Never move the bombilla once inserted — it can clog the filter.
- Clean it regularly with a small brush.
