Are you a big fan of coffee? If so, having too many mugs is probably not something you consider a problem. While having a dirty coffee mug wont stop anyone from filling up on a much needed cup of coffee, its nice to always have a new mug on hand.
This post isn’t just going to cover practical mugs. They’ll also offer some unique designs that you wont find anywhere else. You’ll find cute mugs with a touch of whimsy, and also some that are simply gorgeous.
Are you looking to get some extra mugs for your shelf? This list is going to be a gold mind for adorable designs you can shop for online. Pick up an extra for your kitchen, or maybe an extra for the commute or the office desk. Just be warned – these mugs are so nice, you’ll want to watch over them in case someone decides to poach them from you.
A Brief History of Coffee Mugs
Even as long ago as the prehistoric era, people have been using items made of wood, metal, bones, or wood pieces to hold their drinks. But in 3000 BC, something changed for the better. The pottery wheel was invented, which finally let humans make mugs out of clay. Ever since this invention, people have been making mugs for use and sale.
Fast forward to the 1800s, and you couldn’t find a diner in America that wasn’t serving customers with ceramic Victor mugs. Since then, people have started making mugs that are more and more unique, modern, and innovative. Nowadays, you can buy mugs in every kind of shape and size.
Which Materials Can Be Used to Make Mugs?
Most of the mugs you see on the market are going to be made of ceramic of porcelain. They have a glazed finish to their surfaces that make them look more appealing and attractive. Besides that, you can also get mugs that are made of other materials.
Acrylic Mugs
Mugs made of transparent acrylic are suitable for soda, water, or juice. They are also pretty economical, making them a good choice for giveaways at conventions and trade shows.
Ceramic Mugs
Ceramics can actually be divided into other subcategories, like earthenware and porcelain, the two main groupings. These two are common in household use. They can keep your drinks fairly hot, and resist absorbing smells and tastes like plastic. They also tend to be cheaper than stoneware.
Glass Mugs
Glass is one of the most elegant choices for drinkware. They are also safe for dishwashers and safe with hot beverages. Some of them are crafted so delicately that they might as well be pieces of art in themselves.
They also have a lot of variety. For example, you can get glass mugs with double walls that offer better insulation – the brand Bodum, for example, is one of the industry’s biggest names. You can also get amber glass and Mosser glass for a more retro appearance. However, when using glass mugs, you might find that heat travels quickly to the outer layer.
Metal Mugs
Metal mugs are no longer just for camping trips – they now come in all kinds of stylish designs too.
Plastic Mugs
Clearly, hot coffee and plastic mugs don’t go together. However, you can still use them for drinks like soda or juice. Plus, they aren’t breakable, so they make a good choice for kids or backyard events.
Polypropylene Mugs
These mugs come with double-wall insulation, so you can keep your drinks hot.
Porcelain Mugs
Porcelain is a tasteful choice for entertaining – think holiday get-togethers or tea.
Stoneware Coffee Mug
Stoneware is a bit of an investment, but its worth it if you want something that will last for years. Stoneware is fired at super high temperatures and is sometimes combined with vitreous to make it stronger.
Mugs for Any Occasion
Once you’ve picked the material you want, you can start looking at other factors like style, size, and color. Take a look at the choices we’ve collected to get a head start.
Travel Mugs
As we start getting back to normal, many of us are returning to the old commute. Take your coffee with you in a travel mug.
Trendy Mugs
Cool new materials give your accessories a modern vibe. Mugs using cork as a base are sure to make an impression.
Unique Mugs
Make a statement with a mug that stands out! You can get mugs like these two dual-handled mugs that make them a bit different from the usual.
Soup Mugs
Mugs don’t need to be limited to holding coffee – you can use these big mugs for soups and stews in the winter weather.
Espresso Mugs
These mini mugs are adorable and sure to make an impression. You can use these to get samples of special beans and flavors at the espresso bar.
Eco-Friendly Mugs
While these may look like the typical paper café cup, they are reusable and great for the environment. These make good giveaway items at conferences and shows.
Mugs with Spoons
Do you add sweetener or sugar to your coffee on the go? These mugs come with mini spoons that you can use to stir coffee away from home.
Novelty Mugs
Mugs in novel shapes are great for themed events. Tiki mugs are a cute way to transport cold beverages at your next luau.
Smart Coffee Mug
Everything has a smart version these days. This smart mug is self-heating, meaning that it wont just keep your coffee warm, it’ll actively warm it up for you while you stay at your desk.
What Are the Different Handles for Mugs?
Whats a mug without its distinctive handle? Handles are another aspect of mugs that can be customized to make them more unique.
C-handle
Named for its shape, the “C” handle is probably the most recognizable handle style on mugs. A round bend in the handle makes for easier gripping with no slip.
D-handle
Much like the “C” handle, the “D” handle makes for easy holding. It also offers a bit more space for your hand, so people with bigger hands wont need to squeeze their fingers through the handle.
O-handle
These handles look a bit like the winding part of a child’s wind-up toy. This is a more unique look on your drinkware.
Open
Open handles are the most space effective option. You can store them on cup racks, and they’ll hand securely.
Curved
Elevate the common mug with curved handles. They are a bit more delicate – both in construction and in appearance – with their thinner handle.
Mini
Espresso mugs are going to be a bit smaller than the average mug, so they’ll be balanced out with a tiny handle to match.
Shaped
You’ll find some mugs with more unique and unusual shapes. These unique shapes are great for many different purposes.
Oblong
Just a normal mug…but with a special eye-catching handle. Definitely not a traditional appearance, people who love alternative design will appreciate these handles.
Why Are Mugs Great Gifts?
Mugs are excellent as a giveaway item. First, they can be customized endlessly, so you can get one made in any style and theme. Enjoy a sleek and casual look? Use ceramic material. Want a more elevated and sophisticated look? Try a porcelain mug. There also endless varieties like travel mugs, novelty mugs, and espresso sizes. A custom mug will make an impression on your guests and stay with them for good time!
What’s the Difference Between Ceramic and Porcelain Mugs?
Ceramic is a popular material for a good reason. Ceramic does a decent job with heat retention, and is fairly environmentally friendly (compared to, say, plastic). Its also an accessible and inexpensive material. Ceramic is produced under a firing process, using non-metallic minerals like clay.
In contrast, porcelain will be less durable than ceramic. However, this lends itself to a delicate and elegant aesthetic. This fineness has raised its price, so its more expensive than ceramic. Porcelain is made through a firing process that can get as hot as 2600 Fahrenheit.
While both kinds of mugs are great, there are some notable differences that you’ll discover. Firstly, porcelain is easier to damage than ceramic, and also tends to come in smaller sizes. Refer to the chart below for a more detailed comparison of the two.
The Bottom Line
Mugs can come in a seemingly endless variety. You probably have a favorite mug at home too! Maybe its one that you received as a present, or had custom made with a cool style and design. With such an abundance of colors, sizes, styles, and shapes on the market, you’ll have no trouble finding a new pick.
