Introduction
Manna cups have become increasingly popular reusable cups for carrying drinks on the go. Made of durable materials like stainless steel, glass, or plastic, manna cups offer an eco-friendly alternative to single-use paper and plastic cups.
But can you put hot drinks in manna cups? The short answer is yes, you can use manna cups for hot beverages if you choose the right material. However, there are some factors to consider when using a reusable cup for hot drinks.
In this article, we’ll take a look at whether you can use manna cups for hot beverages, which materials are best, safety tips, and care instructions for using manna cups with hot drinks.
Are Manna Cups Suitable for Hot Drinks?
Most manna cups are designed to be all-purpose cups that can hold both cold and hot beverages. However, the suitable temperature range depends on the material:
| Material | Suitable for Hot Drinks? |
|---|---|
| Plastic (Polypropylene) | Yes, heat-resistant up to 212°F |
| Stainless Steel | Yes, retains heat well |
| Glass | Yes, heat-resistant |
| Ceramic | Yes, stays warm longer than plastic |
| Silicone | No, heat-resistant only to 180°F |
As you can see, manna cups made from plastic, stainless steel, glass, and ceramic are all suitable for hot drinks.
Plastic manna cups are usually made from polypropylene plastic which can withstand boiling temperatures up to 212°F. Stainless steel is especially good at retaining heat and keeps drinks hot for longer. Glass and ceramic work well too but may be more prone to breaking if dropped.
Silicone manna cups are one material that should be avoided for very hot drinks above 180°F. The silicone can start to break down at high heat.
Benefits of Using Manna Cups for Hot Drinks
Using a reusable manna cup for hot beverages has many of the same eco-friendly benefits as using them for cold drinks. But they also have additional perks specifically for hot drinks:
- Insulation – Materials like stainless steel and plastic are good insulators that retain heat well to keep drinks hotter for longer.
- No Burning – A thick, insulated manna cup prevents burning of hands compared to flimsy paper cups.
- Less Leaking – Tight-fitting lids prevent messy spills and leaks, especially when on the go.
- Customization – You can choose an ideal size, color, insulation level, lid type, etc. for your preferences.
Manna cups are reusable, reducing waste from disposable hot drink cups. And their insulation keeps drinks at just the right sipping temperature longer.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Manna Cup for Hot Drinks
Not all manna cups are equal when it comes to handling piping hot beverages. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Material
As mentioned earlier, the cup material affects heat resistance. Stainless steel is excellent for insulation while durable plastics like polypropylene also work well. Glass and ceramic insulate slightly less effectively but contain heat safely. Each material also has different pros and cons regarding durability, weight, etc.
Insulation Ability
The cup construction impacts heat retention. Double-walled vacuum-insulated manna cups maintain heat the best. Copper or stainless steel lining also improves insulation compared to a single plastic wall. The thickness of the walls matters too – think Thermos versus a thin reusable plastic cup.
Size
How much liquid the cup holds affects both ease of handling when full and how quickly the contents cool down. A giant 20oz+ cup might stay hot longer but will be very heavy. Optimal hot drink size is 12-16oz.
Grip
Proper handles, grip pads, and lids make a manna cup easier to hold when filled with piping liquid. Condensation on the outside can make some materials slippery.
Lid Type
Lids come in press-on, screw-top, and sliding types. Leak-proof lids allow you to confidently carry around hot beverages without spilling. Drinking spouts or openings help control flow while sipping scalding drinks.
Ease of Cleaning
Repeatedly washing a manna cup after holding hot drinks should be easy. Simple shapes, smooth non-porous materials, detachable parts, and dishwasher-safe construction enable thorough cleaning.
Considering these factors will help you select the most suitable manna cup for your hot beverage needs.
Safety Tips for Using Manna Cups for Hot Drinks
Taking a few precautions when using manna cups for hot beverages can prevent accidents:
– Allow very hot liquids to cool slightly before pouring into cup. This prevents damage to cup materials.
– Check that lids/caps are securely sealed before transporting to avoid leaks.
– Hold cups properly by handles or sleeves if provided to prevent burning hands.
– Do not overfill cups with boiling liquids – leave expansion room for safety.
– Keep hot drinks away from children to avoid scalding injuries.
– Avoid making sudden movements or tipping that could cause spills.
– Place on flat, level surfaces rather than cup holders to minimize tipping risk.
– Check the tightness of lids and seals periodically as they can loosen with heat.
Exercising due care when handling your manna cup filled with hot drinks will let you use it safely.
Proper Care for Using Manna Cups with Hot Liquids
Taking steps to clean and care for your reusable manna cup properly will keep it in the best condition:
– Wash regularly after use – hot liquids can leave residue buildup. Use mild detergent and water.
– Follow any specific care instructions from the manufacturer, especially regarding high heat.
– Allow to fully cool before washing if very hot. Sudden temp changes can damage material.
– For stubborn stains, soak in vinegar or baking soda solution before scrubbing.
– Check for cracks in plastic after repeated hot liquid use and replace if concerning.
– Use bottle brushes or pipe cleaners to scrub inside narrow openings.
– Sanitize periodically by boiling cup in water for 5-10 minutes.
– Avoid harsh abrasives that can scratch cup surfaces making cleaning harder.
– Allow to fully air dry upside down before re-use to prevent mold growth.
With proper care and maintenance, a quality manna cup should provide many years of service for enjoying hot drinks on the go!
Best Manna Cups for Hot Beverages
Based on the criteria outlined earlier, here are some top-rated manna cups suitable for hot drinks:
Contigo Autoseal West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug
– Durable stainless steel interior and exterior
– Vacuum-insulated for up to 5 hours heat retention
– 16 oz capacity
– One-handed auto seal button for leak-proof lid
– Rubber grip prevents slipping
Thermos Stainless King 40 Ounce Beverage Bottle
– Double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks hot up to 24 hours
– Durable stainless steel interior and exterior
– Twisting pour spout with push-button lid sealing
– 40 oz capacity good for all-day use
– Carrying handle for easy transport
Ello Syndicate Glass Coffee Mug with Lid
– Borosilicate glass construction
– BPA-free plastic lid with drinking slot
– Silicone base protects against slips
– 16 oz capacity
– Microwave and dishwasher safe
JoyJolt Insulated Double Wall Coffee Mug
– Tempered glass inner and outer wall
– Vacuum-insulated stainless steel lining
– Screw-on lid with drinking valve
– 15 oz capacity
– Made in Italy
The Bottom Line
Manna cups are a convenient way to take hot drinks like coffee, tea, and more on the go while reducing waste. Choosing the right reusable cup made from materials like stainless steel, glass, and heat-resistant plastic allows enjoying hot beverages safely. With proper care and handling, a quality insulated manna cup can be your durable, eco-friendly hot drink companion for years to come. So go ahead and fill up that thermal mug – just be sure to follow safety tips and manufacturer guidance based on the cup construction. Your favorite piping hot drink can leave the kitchen with you in an ideal reusable manna cup.