The star of our coffee breaks and brunch tables, the double-walled glass has become an essential. Its design, which creates the illusion of a levitating drink, always makes an impression. But beyond aesthetics, its promise is simple: to keep your coffee hot without burning your fingers, and your iced tea perfectly chilled without the condensation that leaves rings on your table.
However, not all models are created equal. A poor choice can quickly turn the experience into a disappointment: a glass that cracks after a few washes, water seeping between the walls, or a grip that is simply uncomfortable. To avoid falling into these traps, here are the most common pitfalls to watch out for.
To make the right choice, a few technical points deserve your full attention. These are the details that will make a difference in your daily use and over the long term.
Nearly all quality thermal glasses are made from borosilicate glass. And no, that's not just a marketing gimmick. This type of glass offers three major advantages:
The mention of "borosilicate glass" is therefore the first hallmark of quality to look for.
Here, your daily routine is what matters most. Before you fall for a particular model, ask yourself the right questions:
The Achilles' heel of a double-walled glass is its sealing plug. This is where water threatens to seep in. Some manufacturers, like Bodum, have found a solution: a small, hydrophobic silicone valve. It allows the pressure of the air between the walls to equalise (depending on whether the drink is hot or cold) without ever letting water in, which considerably increases the lifespan of the glass. On a model without a valve, the quality of the manual seal is therefore absolutely crucial.
To help you decide, here are a few recommended options, each tailored to a specific user profile.
Why we love it: This set is tailor-made for the espresso ritual. The 80 ml capacity is perfect for a short coffee, and the sleek, modern handleless design is ideal for entertaining.
Made from borosilicate glass by a brand that has mastered its craft, it guarantees excellent resistance. Its small size and simple shape limit stress points and therefore the risk of breakage.
Offered as a set of thermal glasses of six, it's as practical for daily use as it is for hosting. Its design is a timeless classic that never goes out of style.
Why we love it: For that big morning coffee, this 350 ml mug with a handle is the perfect companion. It offers a comfortable and secure grip without sacrificing the thermal performance of the double wall.
Its handle allows for a grip that doesn't put stress on the glass structure. Its simple shape and large capacity make it a functional and well-thought-out object, avoiding the trap of sacrificed ergonomics.
The combination of a large 350ml capacity and a comfortable handle makes it the perfect do-it-all mug, ideal for tea, filter coffee, or your morning cappuccino.
Why we love it: For those who want to stand out, this model is distinguished by its subtle smoke-grey tint. It retains all the benefits of a Bodum glass, with an added touch of colour and originality.
The mention of mouth-blown borosilicate glass is a sign of meticulous craftsmanship. This suggests a superior quality finish, especially at the seal, limiting the risk of infiltration.
Its original colour sets it apart from the usual transparent models. A beautiful way to combine design with thermal performance.
Explore our full selection of products that meet our standards for quality and durability.
Officially, most manufacturers give the green light. In practice, to preserve their shine and seal over the long term, hand washing is still the best bet. Harsh detergents and high-temperature cycles can eventually weaken the sealing plug.
It's not a defect, but an innovation! It's a hydrophobic silicone valve that allows the air trapped between the walls to adapt to temperature changes (expansion/contraction). It regulates the pressure without ever letting water seep in, thus preventing leaks and breakage.
It all depends on the quality of its construction and the care you give it. A good model made of borosilicate glass, maintained with care (no violent thermal shocks or impacts), can last for years. Conversely, entry-level glasses often show their limitations (sealing defects) after only a few months of intensive use.