A set of drinking glasses is a staple in many homes. Yet buying the wrong set can lead to unnecessary expense: it may look just right in the product photos, but prove too small for everyday use, not be dishwasher-safe or be intended only for cold drinks. So whether you’re choosing water glasses, highball glasses or double-walled drinking glasses, don’t focus on looks alone.
A set of 6 drinking glasses may sound like a practical choice for families or entertaining guests. But the capacity of each glass matters too. Glasses holding 200 to 250 ml are better suited to smaller servings, while 310 to 380 ml gives you more room for water, juice and soft drinks. For cocktails or larger long drinks, 450 ml may be a better choice.
Also check whether the stated capacity is the glass’s brimful capacity. A glass that holds 310 ml won’t be filled to the brim if you’re adding ice, a garnish or foam.
Ordinary glass isn’t necessarily suitable for hot drinks. A sudden change in temperature, such as pouring boiling tea into a glass that has held cold water, can create stress and, in some cases, cause it to break. Heat-resistant glasses should be specifically approved for hot drinks. For double-walled drinking glasses, also check whether the product description gives specific guidance on temperature range, microwave use or cleaning.
Even with borosilicate glass, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and handle it with care. Avoid moving it straight from the freezer to a boiling-hot drink unless this is explicitly stated as safe.
Not every dishwasher-safe glass is suitable for every dishwasher programme. Check the product details and follow any guidance on temperature, positioning and detergent. Handwashing may be preferable for hand-painted, decorated or particularly delicate glasses.
For example, according to the product details, the Secret de Gourmet set of six glasses, each with a 380 ml capacity, is not dishwasher-safe. That doesn’t mean it’s unsuitable for everyday use, but cleaning should be part of your buying decision.
For everyday use, sets of water glasses holding around 300 to 400 ml are often a versatile choice. Slim highball glasses leave plenty of room for ice and mixed drinks, but need more clearance in your cupboard. So check the outer dimensions and the height of your shelves before you buy.
For food, dessert glasses or handled glass mugs are often a better choice than traditional drinking glasses. For example, a 450 ml set from Dexam is designed for yoghurt, pudding, ice cream, parfaits and smoothies, and is listed as dishwasher-safe in the product description.
Soda-lime glass is commonly used for drinking glasses. Double-walled models are often made from borosilicate glass. The double wall can help regulate the temperature of the outer surface when serving hot or cold drinks, and reduce condensation. However, don’t assume that these glasses are automatically suitable for boiling liquids.
When choosing, look for clear information from the manufacturer, including:
A set for everyday use should suit your cleaning routine. If you use the dishwasher regularly, clearly labelled dishwasher-safe glasses are a practical choice. Models that aren’t dishwasher-safe will need to be washed by hand. Cracks, chips and deep scratches are safety reasons to stop using a glass.
Why this product suits this profile: With six glasses, each holding 380 ml, this set is a good choice for households looking for matching glasses for water, juice and soft drinks.
The capacity and number of glasses in the set are clearly stated. The fact that they aren’t dishwasher-safe is also made clear, so you can take this into account before buying.
Set of 6 glasses, each with a 380 ml capacity, in a transparent finish.
Why this product suits this profile: The tall, slim shape and 36 cl capacity make these glasses suitable for water, juice, soft drinks and cocktails, whether you’re enjoying everyday meals or entertaining guests.
The product details explicitly state that the glasses are dishwasher-safe, but also specify that they’re suitable only for cold and room-temperature drinks.
4 tall glasses, each with a 36 cl capacity, a clear glass finish and stated dishwasher-safe suitability.
Why this product suits this profile: The double-walled design and 250 ml capacity make these a good fit for households that want to serve coffee, tea and cold drinks in smaller portions.
These are described as double-walled thermal glasses, with a clearly stated capacity. Before using them for hot drinks, check the full care and temperature guidance.
6 double-walled glasses, each with a 250 ml capacity, described as thermal glasses in the product name.
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.
Four glasses may be enough for two people. Families and households that regularly entertain guests have more flexibility with a set of 6 drinking glasses. As well as the number of people in your household, consider whether you’ll be washing glasses in the dishwasher or want spares to hand.
Glasses holding around 250 to 400 ml each are versatile for water, juice and soft drinks. If you often serve ice or larger drinks, choose taller highball glasses with a greater capacity.
It depends on the model. The term “double-walled” alone doesn’t tell you whether a glass is dishwasher-safe. Check the product page and care instructions. If you’re unsure, handwashing with mild washing-up liquid is the gentler option.