A set of drinking glasses should be practical for everyday use, suit your table and hold whatever you need, from water and coffee to cocktails and soft drinks. There’s plenty of choice, from classic glasses and double-walled designs to robust stainless steel cups. That can make it tricky to know where to start.
A 100 ml glass is ideal for espresso, liqueur or small desserts, but it’s not very practical for water at dinner. On the other hand, a large 400 ml glass can feel unwieldy for short drinks or tastings. Before you buy, check that the stated capacity suits how you plan to use it.
“Glass” doesn’t automatically mean it’s suitable for hot drinks. Borosilicate glass is often used for heat-resistant drinkware, but you should still check the manufacturer’s instructions for each product. There are also differences between single- and double-walled stainless steel cups. A metal cup can get hot when filled with hot liquids, even if it’s designed for hot and cold drinks.
A decorative drinking glass may not be ideal for everyday use if it can only be washed by hand or takes up a lot of cupboard space. Stackable cups are especially handy in small kitchens, on camping trips or when you often have guests over. Before buying, also check whether the product is dishwasher-safe and whether hand-washing instructions apply.
Medium-sized glasses of around 250 to 400 ml are versatile for everyday use at home. A 310 ml glass, for example, is suitable for water, juice, lemonade, iced tea and cold mixed drinks. Smaller glasses of 100 or 200 ml are better suited to espresso, liqueur, short cocktails or small servings.
The size of the set matters too: two glasses are enough for couples or occasional use. A six-piece set of glasses gives you more to hand for family meals, parties and visitors.
Also check whether the product is suitable for food contact, and whether it can be used in the microwave or cleaned in the dishwasher. A food-contact suitability statement doesn’t replace the need to follow the product’s instructions.
A wide rim makes a glass easier to fill and clean. A textured stainless steel cup can offer a more secure grip. Stackable designs are useful if you have limited cupboard space or need to transport your cups. With double-walled glasses, the outer surface should be large enough to hold comfortably and securely, without making the glass too heavy.
Why this product suits you: The 310 ml glass holds everyday drinks such as water, juice, lemonade and iced tea. Its colourful pattern also makes it a good choice for summer table settings and indoor celebrations.
Its capacity is clearly stated, along with its suitability for food contact and dishwasher cleaning. According to the product details, it isn’t suitable for use in a microwave.
310 ml capacity, glass construction and dishwasher-safe cleaning.
Why this product suits you: The double-walled design is described as suitable for hot and cold drinks. With a capacity of 0.4 l, these glasses are ideal for coffee, iced tea and larger refreshments.
The design is specifically described as Double Wall. This makes it easier to distinguish from standard drinking glasses without an insulating layer.
Two double-walled glasses with a capacity of 0.4 l, suitable for a range of drinks.
Why this product suits you: These two 470 ml cocktail mugs are designed for Moscow Mules and other cold drinks. The handle makes them easy to serve at social gatherings.
The material, number of pieces and capacity are all stated. Hand-washing is recommended to help the mugs last longer, so the care requirements are clear.
Two Moscow Mule mugs with a 470 ml capacity and permanently attached handles.
Why this product suits you: These stackable stainless steel cups are designed for home use, restaurants, parties and camping. Their compact size makes them easy to transport and store.
The 304 stainless steel and stackable design are clearly specified. Hand-washing with a mild detergent is recommended.
Two stackable stainless steel cups with a 260 ml capacity and a wide opening.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Glasses of around 250 to 400 ml are versatile for water, juice and lemonade. A set of drinking glasses in different sizes lets you pair small glasses for espresso or liqueur with larger ones for cold drinks.
It depends on the product description. The BODUM CANTEEN and PAVINA models mentioned here are described as having a double-walled or thermal design. Even so, check the manufacturer’s specific care and temperature instructions before use.
How long it lasts depends on the material, how often it’s used and how it’s cleaned. Protect glass from knocks, and don’t clean stainless steel cups with abrasive products. If you often go camping or host parties, robust stainless steel or PS cups can be a practical addition to classic glasses.