What are travel mugs made of?

Travel mugs are excellent for easy, on-the-go and convenient use.

They have become more popular and have replaced single-use plastic coffee cups and water bottles. The use of disposable plastic coffee cups and water bottles are one of the leading causes of the increase in carbon gas emissions, landfill waste and ocean pollution.

It is no wonder why people are switching to eco friendly travel mugs that are much less harmful to the environment.

But what are travel mugs made of?

The most commonly used materials are stainless steel, plastic and glass.

Stainless steel is a key material for ‘sustainable hydration’. It is great for temperature-sensitive liquids, is rust-proof and is easily recycled. Thus, being the most sustainable and healthy material choice. Stainless steel does not require insulation as steel does not condensate on the outside.

It can, therefore, maintain a liquid’s temperature for hours, which is essential for a travel mug. The material is unbreakable, highly durable and has the longest life cycle of any reusable material. This means the travel mug can be reused over and over again which prevents the use of disposable plastics.

Stainless steel is non-porous, which makes it resistant to staining. This means that the travel mug is very easy to clean, and only needs a good rinse of hot water to remove surface residue. Because of its non-porous nature, stainless steel travel mugs won’t retain odour or taste. So, you can easily switch between beverages without compromising on taste.

But take care when drinking hot beverages out of stainless steel travel mugs. The steel conducts heat and you might burn your lips or fingertips. Stainless steel travel mugs including brands like U Konserve have silicone lids. This reduces the absorption of hot temperatures and prevents burning your mouth and lips on the hot liquid.

Reusable plastic is another commonly used material for travel mugs. Plastic is an affordable option and comes in many shapes and sizes. The material is lightweight and can easily be carried in a backpack or briefcase. Unlike stainless steel and glass, plastic travel mugs may absorb odours and flavours.

This means that the travel mug needs vigorous cleaning to remove tough stains and odours. Plastic is not as solid or as long-lasting as stainless steel, but plastic travel mugs can be recycled after it has outgrown its use and a new plastic travel mug can be purchased at an affordable price.

Glass has also been used for travel mugs. The material is environmentally friendly and won’t degrade over time. Glass travel mugs maintain the liquids purest flavour as it doesn’t absorb odour or taste. Because of its transparency, you can also ensure the mug is washed thoroughly.

The solid material also means that the glass is safe to use in a dishwasher, which will save time hand washing. But, like with all items made of glass, they are easily breakable and can get extremely hot. Thus, you must take care when using the item.

These different travel mug material types have become more common because people are switching to more sustainable and eco friendly alternatives to single-use plastics. With a variety of materials to choose from, you can choose a travel mug which best suits your needs.

Whilst reusable mugs can also be made from bamboo, we do not recommend these as a safe or environmentally friendly alternative.