A set of glass drinking glasses may seem like a simple purchase, until you have to choose between water glasses, highball glasses, coffee glasses, espresso glasses or double-walled glasses. A low price says little about ease of use. A set may look appealing, for example, but not be suitable for hot drinks or dishwasher-safe.
So pay particular attention to these common pitfalls:
The capacity determines what a glass is practical for. Use these guidelines as a starting point:
A tall, narrow glass is often practical for soft drinks and cocktails. A wider water glass is more stable on the table and easier to fill with ice cubes. For coffee, coffee glasses with a handle are convenient if you do not want to hold the glass directly.
Most drinking glasses are made from standard glass. This is suitable for cold and lukewarm drinks, but sudden changes in temperature can cause breakage. Therefore, do not pour boiling water into a cold glass unless the product information explicitly allows this.
Heat-resistant borosilicate glass is often used for double-walled glasses. According to Bodum’s own information, the PAVINA and BISTRO models are designed for hot and cold drinks. Check the stated temperature limits, microwave and oven information, and care instructions.
A double-walled glass does not automatically need a handle either. According to the product description, the outer surface may feel more comfortable to hold, but always follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions.
Check the following points before buying:
For example, the Secret de Gourmet set of 6 tumblers with a capacity of 310 ml states that hand washing is recommended and that the glasses are not dishwasher-safe. This could be a good choice for anyone who mainly values appearance, but it is less practical for everyday use when you have a lot of washing up.
Why it suits this profile: The 220 ml capacity is well suited to everyday use for water, juice or soft drinks. The stated dishwasher-safe design makes cleaning easy.
The product information states a capacity of 220 ml and dishwasher suitability. Before ordering, however, check the number of pieces shown, as the product specification is not entirely clear on this point.
220 ml capacity; transparent glass; stated in the product details as suitable for the dishwasher.
Why it suits this profile: This set combines a 270 ml capacity with double-walled borosilicate glass and a distinctive design for coffee, tea, iced coffee and cocktails.
The product description lists specific uses and a temperature range of up to 180 °C. According to Bodum’s own information, the glasses are dishwasher-, microwave-, oven- and freezer-safe.
270 ml; double-walled construction; dishwasher-safe according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: Six 400 ml highball glasses are practical for families, entertaining, barbecues and drinks with ice.
The capacity and number of glasses are stated, so you can match the set to the number of guests. The product description also mentions dishwasher use.
Set of 6; capacity of 400 ml per glass; suitable for cold drinks and dishwasher-safe according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: This set of 2 drinking glasses is designed for espresso. The glasses have handles and, according to the product details, are suitable for use in the dishwasher and microwave.
The intended use is clearly defined: espresso. This means you will not buy a small glass expecting it to work as a water or highball glass too.
Stated capacity of 60 ml; set of 2; handles; suitable for espresso.
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.
A set of 2 drinking glasses is ideal for a small household or as an addition to your existing glasses. A set of 4 drinking glasses is suitable for everyday use with a few guests. For families, birthdays and dinner parties, a set of 6 drinking glasses is often more convenient.
Also consider your storage space. Stackable water glasses take up less room in a kitchen cupboard. Tall glasses require more vertical space and do not always fit beneath a low shelf.
That depends on the model. Standard tumblers are generally intended for cold or lukewarm drinks. According to the product information, double-walled glasses made from heat-resistant borosilicate glass are often also offered for coffee and tea. Always check the maximum temperature and avoid sudden changes in temperature.
Their lifespan depends on the thickness of the glass, how they are used and how they are cared for. Knocks against a tap, hard surface or another glass can cause breakage. Follow the care instructions and do not place glasses too close together in the dishwasher. For models that are not dishwasher-safe, hand washing is the appropriate choice.
For most households, a capacity of 200 to 300 ml is a sensible choice. If you want to refill less often or enjoy using ice, you can opt for 310 to 400 ml. For espresso, a much smaller espresso glass of around 60 to 150 ml is sufficient.