The mug you reach for every morning is more than just a vessel for your favourite hot drink; it’s a small ritual, a moment of comfort, and sometimes even a reflection of your personality. Choosing the right mug might seem like a simple task, but with so many options available, it can be surprisingly overwhelming. But, not to worry – we’ve put together our guide to help you find the perfect mug for your needs. So, grab your favourite mug (for now) and join us as we delve into the ins and outs of mug buying.
Types of Mugs
Choosing the right mug starts with understanding the many different mug types. From the material they’re made from to their size, shape, and style, each characteristic plays an important role in your overall drinking experience:
1. Material:
Earthenware: A charming and versatile choice for your everyday mug. Its unique porous nature allows us to craft a delightful array of shapes and sizes, from the classic elegance of our Botanic Garden tankards to the contemporary flair of our Mug Meirion earthenware mugs. This versatility extends to its glazing, where earthenware's porous body truly shines. Vibrant, rich colours and intricate designs come to life, transforming each mug into a personal statement. Lightweight and comfortable to hold, earthenware mugs are perfectly suited for daily enjoyment, and many are dishwasher safe for added convenience.
Porcelain: Synonymous with elegance and refinement, porcelain elevates the simple act of enjoying a beverage into a moment of pure indulgence. Its smooth, luxurious texture and delicate appearance belie its true nature: a remarkably strong and durable material. Fired at high temperatures, porcelain resists chipping, cracking, and scratching, making it perfectly suitable for everyday use. Beyond its practical benefits, porcelain excels at heat retention, ensuring your drinks stay warmer for longer. While often associated with classic designs, porcelain's versatility allows it to take on modern forms as well. Our Sophie Conran White Mugs, with their unique ripple design and handcrafted feel, are a testament to this adaptability, showcasing the timeless appeal of porcelain.
Stoneware: Striking a harmonious balance between earthenware and porcelain, stoneware offers a compelling blend of durability, practicality, and captivating aesthetics. Renowned for its exceptional strength and resilience, this denser, less porous ceramic is perfectly suited for the rigors of daily use, making it a reliable companion for your favourite beverages. Stoneware excels at heat retention, ensuring each sip is savoured at the ideal temperature. Its versatility extends to design, as it can be moulded into a wide array of shapes and sizes, offering a wealth of options from the contemporary elegance of our Portmeirion Minerals Mugs to countless other styles. With a naturally warm, earthy aesthetic, stoneware's subtly textured surface and rich colour tones impart a beautiful charm and character, adding a touch of rustic sophistication to your daily rituals.
2. Size and shape:
Mug size and shape influence how much you drink and how comfortable it is to hold:
Espresso cups: Small cups, around 50-80ml, are designed specifically for espressos.
Cylindrical mugs: This is your everyday, go-to mug shape. It's simple, straight sided design is practical, easy to clean, and stacks well.
Tapered mugs: This mug has a wider opening at the top than at the bottom, which can help to concentrate the aroma of your drink.
Barrell mugs: A classic style of mug, known for their comfortable feel and practical design. The rounded, wide body allows plenty of space for your drink, while its added height keeps it warmer for longer.
Curved mugs: Lending themselves perfectly to that cosy, comforting feeling, rounded, curved mugs fit perfectly in your hands for a warm huggable drink. A classic, popular shape that’s easy to clean, comfortable to hold and suitable for a wide range of beverages.
Travel Mugs: Designed for use on the go, travel mugs come in various sizes and often feature lids to prevent spills.
What to consider when buying a mug
Finding the perfect mug is more than just picking something that looks nice (for some); it’s also about considering how it will fit into your daily life. Here’s some key factors to keep in mind:
Usage: Think about how you’ll mainly be using your mugs. Is it for your morning coffee, afternoon tea break, or cosy evening with a hot chocolate? Will it be an everyday mug or reserved for a special occasion? The intended use will influence your choice regarding size, material and even design. For example, a large, sturdy mug might be perfect for a daily coffee, while a delicate cup might be more appropriate for a special get-together.
Ergonomics: Comfort is key! Pay attention to the handle design. A well-designed handle should provide a comfortable and secure grip. Consider the size and shape of the handle in relation to your hand. Remember, a good handle makes all the difference between a pleasant experience and an awkward one.
Heat Retention: If you like to savour your hot beverages, heat retention is an important consideration. Materials like stoneware and porcelain generally retain heat better than glass. Thicker mugs also tend to keep drinks warmer for longer. Consider how long you typically take to drink your beverage when making your choice.
Care Instructions: Don't forget to check the care instructions before you buy. Are the mugs dishwasher and microwave safe? Some materials or certain designs might require handwashing. Understanding the proper care for your mug will help maintain its beauty and prevent damage.
So, as you have learnt, there’s lots to consider when buying a mug. The perfect mug can be a personal decision, and it’s important to consider your individual needs, preferences and how you’ll be using it. Now that you have the knowledge behind what to consider, explore our extensive collection of mugs and find your favourite. From classic earthenware and durable stoneware to the elegance of fine china mugs, there’s a mug to suit every taste and need:
Our favourites:
