PLA instead of wood: Why our Bag-in-Box holders are the more sustainable choice

If you want to serve wine or juice stylishly from a bag-in-box system, you often face a choice: wine dispensers made of wood or modern variants made of PLA (bioplastic)?

While wood has a natural appeal, our PLA material offers many advantages – especially in terms of hygiene, functionality, and design freedom. So why stick with tried-and-true wood when better alternatives exist?

PLA – what exactly is it?

PLA (Polylactide) is a biodegradable, plant-based plastic (mostly corn starch or sugarcane). It is processed environmentally friendly using 3D printing – entirely without tropical wood, adhesives, or varnishes.

PLA vs. Wood – A Direct Comparison

Sustainability:
PLA, as used by Felecity, is a bio-based, plant-derived plastic (e.g., corn starch) and is biodegradable under certain conditions. In contrast, many wood variants are made from tropical wood, which is often varnished or glued.

Design Freedom:
Thanks to 3D printing, PLA can be formed into almost any shape and color. This allows for modern, minimalist designs that perfectly suit a contemporary lifestyle. Wooden holders, on the other hand, are often heavy, clunky, and visually more rustic – with limited scope for creative forms.

Stability:
PLA is lightweight yet very dimensionally stable and durable. The holders maintain their shape even with regular use. Wood products can warp, crack, or swell with moisture over time.

Care & Hygiene:
PLA offers a smooth, food-safe surface that is easy to wipe clean – ideal for regular use in the kitchen or bar. Wood, however, is porous and easily absorbs liquids. This can quickly lead to stains, odors, or even hygienic problems if bacteria settle.

Cleaning:
A PLA wine holder is very easy to clean with a damp cloth. Wooden variants are sensitive to water and tend to swell or develop marks if they get wet regularly.

Hygiene Meets Practicality

Especially when wine or juice is dispensed regularly, hygiene is a crucial point. PLA offers clear advantages here:

• No open wood pores where bacteria can settle

• Absolutely smooth surface – easy to clean with a damp cloth

• No swelling when exposed to moisture – ideal for kitchen and bar

• No odor formation or stains like with untreated wood

With a PLA holder, you don't have to worry about sticky residues or unhygienic surfaces – especially important when using with juices.