New drinking glasses may seem simple to choose, but differences in capacity, shape, care requirements and stability determine how enjoyable they are to use every day. A low price can be appealing, yet a set may turn out to be awkward to put in the dishwasher. A stylish design also does not automatically mean that the glasses are suitable for hot drinks, cocktails or intensive use.
Use this practical selection guide to compare water glasses, long drink glasses, whisky glasses, champagne glasses, cocktail glasses and other glasses based on verifiable features.
Transparent glasses go with almost any crockery, while colourful drinking glasses add more character to a table. However, shape and capacity are just as important. A narrow 180 ml glass is suitable for champagne or prosecco, but less practical for a large soft drink with ice. A 400 ml long drink glass offers more room for this.
Pay attention to the dimensions as well. A tall glass may not fit in the top rack of the dishwasher or under the kitchen tap.
Not every glass set can simply go in the dishwasher. The product information for the Secret de Gourmet Tumblers, for example, states that the glasses are not dishwasher-safe. Hand washing is recommended. According to their product descriptions, the Rodrig water glasses and Alpina Long Drink glasses are dishwasher-safe.
So always check:
A 700 ml glass offers plenty of room for ice and garnishes, but it also takes up more space in the cupboard. The Secret de Gourmet Gin glasses, for example, are designed for gin and tonic and mixed drinks, with a capacity of 70 cl. For water with a meal, a water glass of around 280 to 310 ml may be more practical.
The right capacity depends on how you plan to use the glass:
Most models in this selection are made of glass. Ordinary glass is suitable for the drinks specified by the manufacturer, but it is often fragile. Do not use a glass for boiling-hot liquids unless this is clearly stated.
Borosilicate glass is a specific type of glass used in the Bodum BISTRO espresso glasses. According to Bodum, this material is heat-resistant, and the product information states that the glasses can withstand temperatures from -30 °C to 180 °C. The manufacturer also states that they can be used in the freezer, oven and microwave. Always check the current product details before using a glass for a specific purpose.
Capacity determines how much drink, ice or garnish you can add. The diameter affects how securely the glass sits in your hand and how much space it takes up. With taller models, height is particularly important for cupboard shelves and dishwashers.
Examples from the selection:
A set of four glasses is suitable for a smaller household or occasional use. A set of six is more convenient if you regularly have guests or would rather not wash up after every round. When buying individual glasses, also check whether an identical model is available. A set in different colours can make small differences less noticeable if one glass breaks.
Why it suits this profile: This glass set contains six water glasses of approximately 280 ml. They are suitable for water, juice and other cold drinks, and can be stacked to save cupboard space.
The capacity is clearly stated, while the stackable design means that a compact kitchen does not immediately need a great deal of cupboard space.
Set of 6, capacity of approximately 280 ml, stackable and dishwasher-safe according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: Coffee lovers get two 150 ml double-walled espresso glasses made from mouth-blown borosilicate glass, according to Bodum’s product description.
The material and temperature specifications are clearly described, so you do not have to rely as heavily on general design claims.
Double-walled construction, 150 ml capacity and dishwasher-safe according to Bodum.
Why it suits this profile: This set of six long drink glasses has a capacity of 400 ml and, according to the product information, is intended for soft drinks, cocktails, squash and everyday use.
The capacity and number of glasses are clearly stated in advance. Dishwasher use is also explicitly mentioned, which is useful after parties or barbecues.
Set of 6, capacity of 400 ml, transparent glass and dishwasher-safe according to the product description.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
For everyday use, around 250 to 350 ml is often practical. This leaves room for water or juice without making the glass unnecessarily large. If you like adding ice or serving larger portions, you could consider a 400 ml long drink glass.
That depends on the material and the product information. Bodum states that the Bodum BISTRO espresso glasses are made from heat-resistant borosilicate glass and are suitable within a specified temperature range. Always check the specific instructions for other double-walled glasses.
There is no fixed replacement period. Replace a glass when it is cracked, chipped or unstable. With normal use, dishwasher-safe glasses can be practical for households that wash up regularly, while hand-wash models require more care to keep them in good condition.