ARK Select-Flow Valve™ for Controlled Straw Drinking (3 Pack)

The ARK Select-Flow Valve™ packs make drinking easier for beginners and/or individuals with oral motor difficulties. It's uniquely designed to control the direction of fluid - liquid flows up into the straw, but does not flow back down. Because fluid stays at the top of the straw, each subsequent sip requires less effort. It also reduces the air ingested, so users experience less coughing and choking while consuming more fluids. Highly recommended for individuals who tend to aspirate or have difficulties generating and maintaining suction (a weak suck). Simply push the tapered end of the valve into the bottom of a straw, and you're set to go!

For individuals who tend to take too much fluid at a time, the Select-Flow Valve™ packs also slow the flow of fluid, allowing for smaller, more manageable sips that lower the risk of coughing/choking. If a restricted flow is not necessary, simply trim the tapered end with a pair of scissors to increase the flow.

The Select-Flow Valve™ is compatible with most regular drinking straws measuring .25" in diameter. If you're using thickened liquids, in general for most thickener brands: "nectar" consistency works fine. If you trim the tapered end of the valve to open up the flow, "honey" will work but will be harder to suck through the straw. "Pudding" does not work, as it's too thick to drink through even a regular straw without a valve.Recommended for thin liquids (water, milk, juice without pulp, etc). Not recommended for carbonated beverages.

These valves are not quite disposable, but they are not "forever" valves either. They cannot be taken apart for thorough cleaning, so eventually they will need to be replaced with enough use. Flushing the valve immediately after each use with warm soapy water will help prolong the life of the valve. For a lifetime forever valve, see the Premium One-Way Valve here.

Specifications:

    Made in USA and medical-grade.

    Crafted in our own factory in Columbia, SC for quality and safety assurance.

    Measures approximately 1.75" in length.

    Includes a pack of 3 Select-Flow Valves. Recommended for use with the Cip-Kup™, Sip-Tip®, or Bear Bottle, as these cup sets let you "help" fluid up the straw for the initial sip

    Handwash or top-rack dishwasher-safe.

    Caution: Not a toy. Contains small parts that may pose a choking hazard. This therapeutic tool is to be used by a therapist or caregiver and directly supervised at all times.

*May be HSA / FSA eligible. Contact your plan administrator for more details.