Joybuy Insights

Drinking glasses: how to choose the right set for your needs

Changing your drinking glasses seems simple enough… until you have to weigh up capacities, materials, shapes and care instructions. A glass that’s perfect for a cocktail won’t necessarily suit an espresso, while a model designed for wine may lack stability for everyday use.

To avoid disappointing purchases, focus on three things: how you’ll actually use them, the material, and how easy they are to look after. Here are the criteria to consider before choosing a set for your home, a professional establishment or dinner parties with friends.

Common pitfalls when buying glasses

1. Confusing capacity with the amount actually served

The stated capacity usually refers to the maximum volume of the glass, not the amount you’re advised to pour into it. A 60 cl wine glass leaves plenty of room for the wine and the development of aromas, but it’s obviously not meant to be filled to the brim. Meanwhile, a 30 cl tumbler works well for spirits served with ice, juices and short cocktails, but is less suited to very generous long drinks.

2. Relying solely on the material’s appearance

Terms like “crystal”, “thermal glass” or “high resistance” don’t always mean the same thing. To choose a lead-free crystal glass, check the exact material stated on the product page. Lead-free clear crystal generally offers a brilliant appearance and a denser feel in the hand, while borosilicate glass is particularly common in double-walled models intended for hot or cold drinks.

3. Underestimating care and thermal shock

Even a dishwasher-safe glass remains vulnerable to knocks, scratches and poor positioning in the basket. Double-walled or mouth-blown models also require some care. Avoid pouring a boiling-hot drink into a cold glass, and regularly check the rims for any chips or cracks.

Technical criteria to check

Capacity and shape

  • 8 cl to 10 cl: espresso, tasting or small portions.
  • 27 cl to 35 cl: coffee, tea, cocktails, juices and everyday drinks.
  • 30 cl to 40 cl: tumblers, whisky with ice, water and long drinks.
  • 34 cl to 60 cl: wine, water, generous cocktails or table service.

Shape matters just as much as volume. A stemmed glass of 34 to 37 cl is versatile and offers a more elegant presentation. A large 60 cl bowl is better suited to red wine, water or cocktails served with plenty of ice.

Material and construction

Borosilicate glass is used in many thermal glasses and double-walled models. This construction reduces condensation on the outside and helps the drink stay at its temperature for longer, depending on the manufacturer’s design. However, it doesn’t make the glass unbreakable.

Double-walled glasses require special attention: never put them in the oven, on a direct heat source or in the microwave unless the product page explicitly allows it. For lead-free crystal glasses, hand washing can help preserve the clarity and finish, even when the dishwasher is permitted.

Number of pieces

A set of 2 glasses is suitable for a couple, for tasting or for gradually replacing existing ones. A set of 6 glasses is more practical for a family, a dinner party with friends, or use in cafés and restaurants. In a professional setting, also check the availability of replacement pieces and compatibility with your washing cycle.

Our selection by profile

Recommended for: beginners and small budgets
BJÖRN Tumbler 30cl LINJE - 6 Pieces

BJÖRN Tumbler 30 cl LINJE – set of 6

Why this choice suits this profile: This set of six 30 cl tumblers covers everyday uses: water, juice, whisky with ice and short cocktails.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its clearly stated capacity stops you ending up with a glass that’s too small or disproportionate for everyday drinks.

Key benefit and highlights

A lead-free crystalline glass, a set of six pieces and dishwasher-safe as stated by the manufacturer.

Recommended for: lovers of beautiful objects
Bodum PAVINA PARIS Double Walled Thermal Glasses

Bodum PAVINA PARIS, 2 double-walled thermal glasses, 270 ml

Why this choice suits this profile: This set of two mouth-blown glasses is equally suited to enjoying a coffee or tea as it is to serving cocktails and cold drinks, with a particularly refined presentation.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page details the material, the double wall, the capacity and the precautions to take with temperature changes.

Key benefit and highlights

Borosilicate, a double wall, a transparent grey finish and stated dishwasher compatibility.

Recommended for: specific uses and heavy-duty use
Bodum CANTEEN 6 double-walled glasses 400 ml

Bodum CANTEEN – 6 double-walled glasses, 400 ml

Why this choice suits this profile: With their generous capacity, these glasses are ideal for families, parties and cafés or restaurants serving drinks, desserts and cold preparations.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 400 ml volume is clearly stated and the product page reminds you of the usage limits relating to knocks, heat and the silicone valve.

Key benefit and highlights

Mouth-blown borosilicate, a double wall, a pressure-balancing valve and stated dishwasher-safe.

Recommended for: wine lovers and large dinner parties
Björn Stemmed Glass 37cl SVÄVA

Björn Stemmed Glass 37 cl SVÄVA – set of 6

Why this choice suits this profile: This set of six 37 cl stemmed glasses works for wine, cocktails and water, both every day and when entertaining guests.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stem and capacity are clearly detailed. That makes it easy to tell a versatile table glass apart from a model designed for one specific drink.

Key benefit and highlights

Lead-free clear crystal, a SVÄVA design and dishwasher-safe according to the product information.

Looking for other options?

We’ve put together a comprehensive, real-time updated selection of products that meet these exacting criteria and European safety standards.

Care and lifespan

To keep your glasses in good condition, rinse them after serving highly coloured or sugary drinks. In the dishwasher, space the pieces far enough apart to stop them knocking together. Double-walled models and mouth-blown glasses can also be washed by hand with a soft sponge, even if the manufacturer allows the dishwasher.

Lifespan depends mainly on knocks, temperature changes and frequency of use. Replace any glass that is cracked, chipped or warped straight away. In a café or restaurant, regular inspection helps minimise the risks associated with breakage.

Frequently asked questions about drinking glasses

Which material should I choose for hot and cold drinks?

Borosilicate is very common in thermal glasses and double-walled models. It’s suitable for coffee, tea and iced drinks, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid sudden temperature changes.

Can a double-walled glass go in the dishwasher?

Some models are stated as dishwasher-safe, while others require hand washing. Always check the product page. Even in the dishwasher, glasses remain exposed to knocks between pieces and damage from poor positioning in the basket.

How many glasses should I plan for entertaining?

For a household or regular use, a set of 6 glasses provides a solid foundation. A set of 2 pieces can complement an existing set or meet a specific need, such as tasting whisky, coffee or a cocktail.