A great cup of coffee starts with the right coffee cup. Whether you're enjoying a flat white in the morning or a late-night espresso, the cup you use makes a difference. In the UK, millions drink coffee every day, and choosing the perfect coffee cups can make your daily routine smoother, more stylish, and even more sustainable.
Let’s dive into the best types, materials, and brands available in the UK for every kind of coffee drinker.
Why Choosing the Right Coffee Cup Matters
The material affects heat retention.
The size matters for different drinks.
Your cup style shows your personality.
Reusable coffee cups reduce waste.
Over 95 million cups of coffee are consumed in the UK daily (British Coffee Association, 2024). That’s a strong reason to get your coffee cups right.
Types of Coffee Cups You Should Know
Each type of cup suits different needs. Whether for home, office, or travel, the right cup changes everything.
1. Ceramic Coffee Cups
Ceramic coffee cups are a top choice in UK households.
Retains heat well
Durable and microwave-safe
Available in countless styles
Quote: "Ceramic mugs remain the UK’s favourite for a reason — they're reliable, stylish, and practical." — James McCarthy, Barista Trainer, London.
2. Porcelain Coffee Cups
Sleeker than ceramic, often used for formal or café settings.
Lightweight
Thin-lipped for better flavour experience
Often comes in matching sets
Porcelain is ideal for cappuccinos and flat whites.
3. Stoneware Coffee Cups
Heavier than porcelain or ceramic.
Rustic look
Thick walls for heat insulation
Often hand-finished
Perfect for slow, cozy mornings.
4. Glass Coffee Cups
See-through style that adds a modern touch.
Great for lattes and layered drinks
Usually heat-resistant borosilicate glass
Shows drink layers beautifully
They don’t retain heat like ceramics but look stunning.
5. Stainless Steel Coffee Cups
Common for travel and outdoor use.
Unbreakable
Double-walled insulation
Keeps coffee hot for hours
Perfect for commuters and office-goers.
Best Reusable Coffee Cups in the UK
Reusable coffee cups have gained popularity with the rise of eco-awareness.
Top Picks for 2025:
KeepCup Original Reusable Cup – Lightweight, barista-friendly
Chilly’s Series 2 Cup – Vacuum insulated, stylish, leak-proof
Frank Green Ceramic Cup – Smart lid, sleek design
rCup Recycled Travel Mug – Made from recycled paper cups
Contigo Autoseal West Loop – Spill-proof, auto-seal tech
Stat: According to Zero Waste Scotland, the UK uses 2.5 billion disposable coffee cups annually. Reusables make a real impact.
What Size Coffee Cup Should You Buy?
Different drinks need different sizes. Here's a quick guide:
Espresso: 60–90 ml
Macchiato: 90–120 ml
Cappuccino: 150–180 ml
Flat White: 150–180 ml
Latte: 240–360 ml
Filter coffee: 300–450 ml
Standard coffee cups in the UK range from 250 ml to 400 ml.
Features to Look for in a Coffee Cup
When shopping for coffee cups, keep these factors in mind:
Heat Retention: Thicker materials hold warmth longer.
Ease of Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe is ideal.
Grip and Handle: Must be comfortable to hold.
Lid Seal (for travel mugs): Prevent leaks on the go.
Material Safety: BPA-free and food-safe.
Top Materials Used in Coffee Cups
Each material offers a unique experience.
Ceramic: Great for home, retains warmth
Glass: Ideal for seeing your drink layers
Stainless Steel: Durable and travel-friendly
Bamboo or Bioplastics: Eco-friendly but may wear faster
Avoid plastic cups with poor insulation or harmful chemicals.
Are Coffee Cups Microwave-Safe?
Most ceramic and glass coffee cups are microwave-safe. However, metallic mugs or cups with printed designs may not be. Always check the label. Using unsafe cups can cause damage or health risks.
How to Clean Your Coffee Cups Properly
To keep your coffee cups looking fresh:
Rinse immediately after use
Use baking soda for tough stains
Avoid metal scrubbers
Let them air dry fully
For travel mugs, clean the lids separately and remove rubber seals when needed.
Matching Coffee Cups with Your Coffee Machine
Do your cups fit under your coffee machine? Many espresso machines need a lower-profile mug. Always measure before you buy.
Nespresso and similar machines often need coffee cups under 100 mm tall. Look for slim ceramic or glass designs for the best fit.
Where to Buy the Best Coffee Cups in the UK
Popular retailers include:
John Lewis
Argos
Amazon UK
Whittard of Chelsea
Lakeland
You’ll also find handmade options on Etsy or at local ceramic markets.
Sustainable Coffee Cups: Better for the Planet
Eco-conscious consumers love sustainable coffee cups. These help cut down on waste and promote greener habits.
Look for:
Cups made from recycled materials
Bamboo fibre cups
Cups with silicone lids and bands
Recycled stainless steel
Stat: One reusable cup can replace up to 500 disposable cups each year.
Coffee Cups for Gifts
Coffee cups make perfect gifts for:
Birthdays
Christmas
Housewarmings
Office Secret Santa
Choose a set or a personal mug with a quote. Pair it with a bag of premium beans or a voucher from a UK coffee shop.
Conclusion
The best coffee cups blend form, function, and personal taste. Whether you need a home mug, a café-style cup, or a travel companion, there’s one just right for you. With the UK’s growing love for coffee, investing in quality coffee cups is more than smart—it’s essential.
Choose wisely. Drink happily. Repeat daily.