A glass set may seem simple to choose, but small differences can make a big difference to how much you enjoy using it. A set that looks lovely might be too big for your cupboard, difficult to clean or unsuitable for the drinks you usually serve. Use these practical points to compare a drinking glass set, wine glasses or speciality glasses without relying on photos and marketing copy alone.
Coloured or smoked glass can give your table a different look, but it can make it harder to see the colour of wine or a cocktail. Decorative details can also make glasses more difficult to clean. So consider whether you’re mainly looking for an everyday water glass set or glasses for dinner parties and special occasions.
A 700 ml glass has plenty of room for ice, tonic and garnish, but it also takes up more space. A 180 ml glass is suitable for sparkling wine, but less useful as an all-purpose drinking glass. The stated capacity is usually the maximum volume; in practice, you won’t always fill a glass to the brim.
Not every glass set is dishwasher-safe. For example, the Secret de Gourmet set of six 310 ml tumblers is listed as not dishwasher-safe. The Alpina drinking glasses and several wine glasses, on the other hand, are described as dishwasher-safe. Always check the product page, especially if you want to avoid washing up by hand.
Choose the capacity to suit how you’ll use the glasses:
Don’t just check the capacity in millilitres. Also measure the height and diameter of the glasses against your kitchen cupboard, fridge door or dishwasher rack.
A set of 4 glasses often suits a smaller household or a more formal table setting. A set of 6 glasses is more convenient for a family, guests or a drinks party. A set of two can make a good gift, help you start a collection or suit you if you only need a few special glasses.
Also check whether all the glasses are the same type. A set of six water glasses is different from a combination of champagne glasses, wine glasses and tumblers.
Most of the models mentioned are made of glass. Look out for the following:
According to Bodum’s product information, the PAVINA and BISTRO models are suitable for specific uses with hot and cold drinks, as well as for use in the dishwasher, oven or microwave under the stated conditions. Follow the brand’s instructions and check the restrictions for each model.
Why it suits this profile: A set of six 350 ml glasses gives you a useful everyday option for water, soft drinks, wine and cocktails. According to the product information, the glasses are dishwasher-safe.
The capacity and number of glasses are clearly stated, making it less likely that you’ll choose a set that’s too small or an impractical size.
Six glasses, 350 ml per glass and dishwasher-safe according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: These double-walled glasses are designed for anyone who values design and versatility when serving drinks. The set contains six 270 ml glasses.
The product information specifies the material, capacity and care instructions. This lets you compare the claims about using the glasses for hot or cold drinks with your own needs.
Borosilicate glass according to Bodum, double walls, a set of six and stated suitability for the dishwasher, oven, microwave and freezer under the specified conditions.
Why it suits this profile: This set is designed for gin and tonic and other mixed drinks served with plenty of ice and garnish. The four 700 ml glasses give you lots of room.
The large capacity makes it clear that this isn’t an all-purpose water glass set. The product information also states that the glasses need to be washed by hand.
Four large clear glass gin glasses, each with a 700 ml capacity and plenty of room for ice and garnish.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
A set of four may be enough for two people. A set of six is more practical if you often have guests or don’t want to wash glasses straight away. You can also use separate wine or champagne glasses for dinner parties.
It varies by model. Always check the product details. In the range mentioned, the Alpina drinking glasses, Alpina wine glasses and Secret de Gourmet Rodrig water glasses are described as dishwasher-safe. The Secret de Gourmet 310 ml tumblers and gin glasses, on the other hand, are listed as not dishwasher-safe.
Leave enough space between glasses in the dishwasher, avoid sudden changes in temperature and only stack them if the product information says it’s safe to do so. Don’t use an abrasive sponge on decorative or smoked glass. If in doubt, washing them carefully by hand is the safest option.