Choosing drinking glasses: sizes, materials and the right glass for every occasion

Whether you’re looking for everyday water glasses, tumblers for cocktails or double-walled thermal glasses for coffee and tea, there’s a huge choice of drinking glasses. But design isn’t the only thing that matters. Capacity, temperature range, material and cleaning requirements all determine whether a glass will suit your household in the long term.

Many disappointing purchases come down to three common pitfalls:

• Unclear size information: 30 cl is equivalent to 300 ml, while glasses with a 250 ml capacity hold considerably less. The external dimensions alone don’t give you a reliable indication of capacity.
• Confusing double-walled with heat-resistant: A double wall can make a glass easier to handle with hot or cold drinks. However, you should still check the manufacturer’s information on temperature range and microwave suitability.
• “Dishwasher-safe” without care instructions: Even dishwasher-safe glasses can become cloudy over time due to harsh detergents, high temperatures or contact with other crockery.

The key things to consider when buying drinking glasses

1. Capacity and glass shape

For water, juice and soft drinks, 250 ml to 300 ml glasses are a practical choice for many households. A 250 ml glass is ideal for smaller servings, while a 30 cl glass leaves more room for ice cubes or mixed drinks.

Short drinking glasses, also known as low tumblers or short tumblers, usually have a wide base and a compact height. This can be useful on the dining table, at your desk or on a tray. Highball glasses, by contrast, are taller and narrower. They hold more liquid and are often suitable for drinks with ice, juice or lemonade.

Also consider:

• Diameter and height to make sure they fit in your cupboards or dishwasher racks
• Stability, thanks to a wide base
• The rim shape for comfortable drinking
• Set size to suit the number of people in your household

2. Material and temperature range

Soda-lime glass is often used for classic water glasses and tumblers. It’s suitable for cold and lukewarm drinks, but isn’t automatically heat-resistant. A glass with a stated temperature range of 0 °C to 60 °C or 80 °C shouldn’t be filled with boiling water. Sudden changes in temperature can cause stress and lead to breakage.

For glasses designed for hot and cold drinks, borosilicate glass or models specifically described as thermal glasses are worth considering. Double-walled glasses have an insulating space between the two layers of glass. Even so, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. “Double-walled” doesn’t automatically mean a product is suitable for the oven, microwave or every temperature.

3. Cleaning and everyday practicality

When choosing dishwasher-safe glasses, read the care instructions in full. Some models are suitable for the dishwasher but recommend a gentle or low-temperature cycle. Coloured coatings and decorative patterns can lose their shine if cleaned with abrasive products.

Hand-washing is particularly worthwhile for:

• Coloured or tinted glass
• Decorative engravings
• Delicate surfaces
• Glasses with unclear dishwasher instructions

Check drinking glasses for cracks, chips and deep scratches before each use. Damaged glasses should no longer be used.

Our recommendations for different needs and users

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers

Ina Low Tumbler – 30 cl – transparent

Why it suits this profile: This transparent drinking glass holds 300 ml and is suitable for water, juice, soft drinks and cold cocktails. Its compact shape is ideal for everyday meals and casual get-togethers.

How it avoids the pitfall

The capacity is clearly stated as 30 cl or 300 ml. The temperature range of 0 °C to 80 °C is also specified, so the glass isn’t intended for boiling liquids.

Key benefits and features

300 ml capacity, a low-profile shape and stated dishwasher suitability. Hand-washing is recommended to keep the glass clear.

Ideal for: Buyers who expect high quality

BODUM CANTEEN – 6 double-walled glasses – 0.2 l

Why it suits this profile: This set of six double-walled borosilicate glasses is a great choice for buyers looking for a coordinated look and glasses for both hot and cold drinks.

How it avoids the pitfall

The product description clearly states the material, set size and double-walled design. This makes it easier to distinguish from standard soda-lime glasses intended for cold drinks.

Key benefits and features

Six glasses, each with a 0.2 l capacity, featuring a double-walled design, borosilicate glass and dishwasher suitability according to the product information.

Ideal for: Special uses and frequent use

Secret de Gourmet Colori’Eau – set of 6 highball glasses

Why it suits this profile: This glass set contains six highball glasses, each with a capacity of around 310 ml. It’s ideal for households, offices or hosts who need several matching glasses.

How it avoids the pitfall

The pack size and 310 ml capacity are clearly stated. Dishwasher suitability also means less hand-washing for everyday use.

Key benefits and features

Set of six, 310 ml per glass, approximately 16.5 cm tall and dishwasher-suitable according to the product details.

Ideal for: Small servings and special drinks

BODUM PAVINA – 6 double-walled thermal glasses, 80 ml

Why it suits this profile: The small capacity is ideal for espresso, liqueur, whisky or desserts. This set is designed for anyone looking for short glasses for compact servings.

How it avoids the pitfall

The small size is clearly stated, so you won’t mistake it for a full-sized water glass.

Key benefits and features

Set of six, each with an 80 ml capacity and a double-walled design for small servings.

Frequently asked questions about drinking glasses

What size is best for everyday water glasses?

For water, juice and soft drinks, 250 ml to 300 ml is often a practical size. 30 cl glasses offer extra room for ice cubes. For smaller servings or short drinks, 80 ml to 100 ml may be enough.

Are double-walled glasses suitable for hot drinks?

It depends on the material and the manufacturer’s guidance. Double-walled thermal glasses made from borosilicate glass are often designed for hot and cold drinks. Even so, check the temperature range, microwave instructions and any warnings about sudden temperature changes.

How can you keep drinking glasses clear for longer?

For dishwasher-safe glasses, use a gentle cycle and avoid contact with metal cutlery. Coloured or decorated glasses are best washed by hand with a soft sponge. Store drinking glasses upright and avoid stacking them inside one another unless the manufacturer specifically recommends it.