Joybuy Insights

Choosing glass coffee cups: how to find the right glass for coffee, tea and more

Glass coffee cups give coffee, tea and cold drinks a calm, modern look. You can see the colour and layers of your drink, and many designs are suitable for everyday use. However, glass cups vary considerably in capacity, insulation, material and care requirements.

If you focus only on appearance, you may run into a few practical pitfalls. Thin glass may be less suitable for large temperature changes, a small espresso cup won’t work well for a generous cappuccino, and an attractive set may not be suitable for the dishwasher or microwave. Use the points below to compare your options more effectively.

Common pitfalls when choosing glass coffee cups

1. “Heat-resistant” without clear usage information

The term ‘heat-resistant’ doesn’t tell you much about everyday use on its own. Check whether the product information explains what the glass is suitable for and gives a maximum temperature. Always avoid a sudden change from ice-cold to boiling hot. Even a glass designed for hot drinks can crack due to thermal shock.

2. The capacity doesn’t suit your favourite drink

Espresso usually takes up much less space than a cappuccino, latte macchiato or large filter coffee. So look at the capacity as well as the shape:

  • Espresso glasses: often compact, such as 150 ml.
  • Cappuccino glasses: usually suitable for around 180 to 300 ml, depending on the amount of milk and froth.
  • 300 ml glass coffee cups: practical for coffee, tea, hot chocolate and cold drinks.
  • Drinking glasses of 350 ml or more: handy for water, soft drinks, cocktails and iced coffee.

A cup that’s too small can easily overflow when you add milk, froth or ice.

3. Double-walled glass is assumed to be unbreakable

Product descriptions say that double-walled glasses keep hot drinks warm for longer and cold drinks cool for longer. The outside often feels less hot or cold, too. However, that doesn’t mean the glass is unbreakable. Check it before each use and don’t use it if it has a crack, chip or damaged rim.

Key features to compare

Single-walled or double-walled?

Double-walled glasses consist of two layers of glass with an insulating space between them. They’re often sold as thermal glasses and are suitable for coffee, tea, espresso, cappuccino and cold drinks. Some designs use a silicone valve to regulate the air pressure between the layers.

Single-walled glasses are simpler and often more affordable. They’re a good choice if you mainly want a transparent look and plan to use the cup as soon as you’ve poured your drink.

Material: borosilicate glass, toughened glass or standard glass

Borosilicate glasses are described as heat-resistant in several product listings. For example, Bodum describes a number of its double-walled designs as mouth-blown borosilicate glass. For some models, the manufacturer also specifies that they can be used in the dishwasher, microwave, oven and freezer, up to a stated maximum temperature. Always check this information for the product you choose.

According to the product information, toughened glass, such as that used for certain De’Longhi models, is designed to offer extra resistance to thermal shock. Even so, it’s important to handle it with care and avoid sudden temperature changes.

Dishwasher, microwave and oven

These features vary by product, so check the individual specifications:

  • Dishwasher: handy for everyday use, but check that the manufacturer explicitly says the glass is dishwasher-safe.
  • Microwave: double-walled designs may be suitable, but that doesn’t automatically apply to every glass.
  • Oven and freezer: only use the glass in these if the product information clearly says it’s suitable.
  • Hand-wash: use a soft sponge and mild washing-up liquid if recommended.

A glass mug with an infuser often has extra parts, such as a lid, rubber edge and metal filter. These usually need a little more care when cleaning.

Our recommendations for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Ju7cer 300 ml glass coffee cup

Ju7cer Transparent Cup Handle Glass Cup 300 ml

Why it suits this need: A simple glass cup with a handle for coffee, tea or another drink. Its 300 ml capacity makes it a practical choice for everyday use at home.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The capacity is clearly stated, so you can decide in advance whether 300 ml is right for your cup of coffee or tea.

Key benefit & features

Handle; 300 ml capacity; described in the product name as a versatile cup for coffee and tea.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Bodum PAVINA PARIS double-walled glasses 270 ml

Bodum PAVINA PARIS Double Walled Glasses, 270 ml, set of 2

Why it suits this need: A double-walled set for anyone who wants to serve coffee, tea, cold brew and cocktails in the same type of glass.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies borosilicate glass, a double-walled construction and a silicone opening to equalise the pressure between the glass layers.

Key benefit & features

270 ml; set of 2; according to Bodum, suitable for the dishwasher, microwave and oven up to 180 °C.

Suitable for: A specific use & frequent users
Secret de Gourmet glass mug with infuser 300 ml

Secret de Gourmet Glass Mug with Infuser, 300 ml

Why it suits this need: For loose-leaf tea, herbal infusions or a relaxing drink without the need for a separate teapot. The removable infuser makes it ideal for the job.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The design is clearly described: a 300 ml glass mug with a removable infuser and a lid with a rubber edge.

Key benefit & features

300 ml capacity; metal infuser; lid; suitable for loose-leaf tea and infusions.

Suitable for: Coffee lovers who enjoy different styles
DeLonghi Fancy Collection thermal glass set

De'Longhi Fancy Collection DLSC302 Thermoglass Set

Why it suits this need: A glassware set with six glasses for espresso, cappuccino and milk. Handy for households that serve several types of coffee.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The set includes separate glasses for espresso, cappuccino and milk, so you don’t have to use one universal size.

Key benefit & features

Six glasses; double-walled thermal glass according to the product specifications; dishwasher-safe according to the product information.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the European safety regulations currently in force.

Which glasses suit your needs?

  • For a small, strong coffee, espresso glasses of around 150 ml are a good choice.
  • For cappuccino and flat white, cappuccino glasses of around 180 to 300 ml are more practical.
  • For tea, glasses with a handle are more comfortable; a glass tea mug with an infuser is suitable for loose-leaf tea.
  • For iced coffee, lemonade and cocktails, consider glass cups with a straw or a larger clear drinking glass.
  • If you’re buying for several people, a glassware set is better value and easier to organise than individual cups.

Frequently asked questions about glass coffee cups

Can glass coffee cups go in the microwave?

It depends on the model. Only use a glass coffee cup in the microwave if the product information clearly says it’s suitable. Double-walled glasses may need extra care because of their construction, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

How can I stop a glass cup from cracking?

Avoid sudden temperature changes. For example, don’t pour boiling-hot coffee into a glass straight from the fridge, and don’t put a hot glass under cold water. Also check regularly for cracks, chips and other damage.

Are double-walled glasses dishwasher-safe?

Some models are. The Bodum PAVINA PARIS and CANTEEN product descriptions state that they’re dishwasher-safe. Check the latest specifications for each model and load glasses according to the dishwasher manufacturer’s instructions.