Different Types of Mugs and Their Pros and Cons
Most of us use a coffee mug or cup at least once a day or know someone who lives with a mug in their hand! Did you know that different types of mugs hold heat and flavors differently? The material used to create the mug can determine if it is best used for a hot or cold beverage. And, it can affect the flavor of the beverage it holds. Depending on your preferences, you could be using the wrong mug! In this post, we will explore some common types of coffee mugs, what they are made of, and the pros and cons of each.
Ceramic Coffee Mugs
Pros
More than likely you have a ceramic coffee mug in your cabinet right now. They’re common among coffee and tea drinkers. They’re good to use for both cold and hot beverages and are microwave-safe! Ceramic mugs are the most neutral in terms of flavor. They do not hold on to flavors from other drinks. You can enjoy a variety of beverages in them without lingering smells or flavors. They do a decent job of keeping beverages hot or cold. They are microwave friendly so you can warm up your drink if it gets too cool. Ceramic coffee mugs can be an affordable gift for friends and family!
Cons
Ceramic mugs can crack, break, or chip if not handled carefully. Large ceramic coffee mugs may not keep your beverages hot for very long.
PRO TIP: Warm your ceramic coffee mug before adding your coffee or tea by running hot water over it.
Metal Coffee Mugs
PROS
Metal coffee mugs are perfect for outdoor use. They are lightweight, durable, and versatile. When you’re not on the trails they are stylish, sleek, and make great gifts. These types of mugs are also excellent for cold drinks.
CONS
Metal mugs and microwaves don’t get along. You won’t be able to reheat your beverage using the microwave. Metal coffee mugs conduct heat. If you are using them to drink hot beverages they can become extremely warm on the outside, so be careful and touch only the handle to avoid burns. Be careful with that first sip! Metal mugs (especially single-walled) will “steal” heat from your beverage causing it to cool faster. If you’re a slow sipper this may not be the best option.
Insulated Coffee Mugs
PROS
Insulated mugs are good for both hot and cold drinks, making them possibly the most versatile option. These types of mugs are usually tightly sealed to keep heat from escaping. That tight seal means you typically won’t have to worry about spills. That makes them the perfect choice to carry on the go. Unlike mugs made from most other materials, many insulated coffee mugs can fit in car cup holders.
Check out our 18oz insulated coffee mug that’s perfect for keeping all your drinks hot or cold! Grab one for yourself or give a friend a gift they’ll use over and over again.
PRO TIP: Bring your Baba Java reusable cup to our Birmingham cafe to get 10% off any drink or $1.50 batch brew!
CONS
One drawback of an insulated coffee mug is that it can be difficult to keep clean. You may need to use special cleaners or wash them regularly by hand. Be sure to rinse it well!
Glass Coffee Mugs
PROS
Glass coffee mugs are appealing in many ways. They are aesthetically pleasing as well as recyclable. These are perfect for showing off beautiful lattes! See our tips for creating your own Instagram-worthy latte art at home here.
Like ceramic mugs, glass mugs do not hold flavors from their previous contents. These types of mugs don’t conduct heat like metal mugs and are user-friendly. Since it’s non-conductive it won’t steal heat from your beverage like metal.
CONS
Attractive as they are, these types of coffee mugs don’t hold heat as well as mugs made from other materials. They can also be fragile.
Acrylic or Plastic Coffee Mugs
PROS
Double-walled acrylic or plastic coffee mugs or cups are great for holding hot or cold beverages. Because they are more shatter-resistant than glass or ceramic, they are great for on the move people! They’re also very affordable making them great for giveaways at trade shows.
CONS
Acrylic and plastic mugs can easily stain. Over time plastic absorbs flavors, so you’ll need to keep your beverage the same. Otherwise, your next beverage will likely have trace hints of whatever was in the mug before it. You’ll need to make sure your plastic coffee mug or cup can handle hot beverages or if they are microwave safe!
Treat Yourself With a Baba Java Coffee Mug for You or a Friend!
Baba Java has a unique selection of coffee mugs. Each of our ceramic origin mugs features a country where our coffee beans are grown. See how coffee in China, Papua New Guinea, and many other countries is impacting culture around the world!
Don’t know which coffee origin mug is right for you? Take our quiz to find your favorite coffee origin or try our sample box today!