We decided to write this guide on types of disposable cups for catering and events because there is so much variety in shapes, sizes, materials, uses and colours, that we want to lend you a hand by putting our experience at your service. We want to be a reference for you, a friendly arm, when you are faced with the difficult choice of the perfect cup.
A priori it seems a simple task, but each glass is a world of its own. Depending on what you are going to serve in them and in what context, things change. For a hot coffee to go, foam or curly kraft cardboard containers with a lid will make your customers very happy, while for a cocktail there are more elegant options to please the most demanding diners (they won't believe they're not made of glass!). And that's what we're going to talk about here, where to serve hot and cold drinks, capacities, hardness, aesthetics and curiosities: grab pencil and paper, we'll get started.
To combine your new single-use glasses with other essential pieces of tableware such as plates, cutlery or trays, you can download and consult our catalogues at your leisure:
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why choose disposable cups?
The use of disposable cups allows you to offer a fast, efficient, hygienic and quality service. They are easy to store (they can be stacked), so they take up less space than traditional glass cups or other heavier or more delicate alternatives.
Plastic and biodegradable cups help you in your day-to-day cleaning tasks, especially at events with a large number of guests.
They are affordable options that come in a variety of styles so you are able to give each customer a completely personalised experience. This is something you can't do with conventional glassware, where it's a major expense to refurbish or keep multiple models in the venue (budget, space).
You can add lids to them to make them a safe container for transport or take away service on the premises.
Types of disposable and reusable cups
There are different types of cups depending on several factors: the number of uses (disposable, reusable), the material they are made of (plastic, cardboard, sugar cane), their size (shot glass, pint glass, etc.) or the use you are going to give them (for serving coffee, for water machines, for birthdays, for take away, for desserts).
Review with us what types of cups you can find in our shop (plastic cups, cardboard cups), their main characteristics and for which uses they are recommended.
Plastic cups
One of the most widely used materials to produce disposable and reusable cups to replace the traditional glass is plastic. They are an economical and functional alternative that includes such a wide range of products that it is necessary to know the differences between the different types of disposable cups in order to choose the one that best suits your catering establishment, party or event.
At Monouso we present you with certified products that comply with all current EU regulations for food use. In other words, they are suitable for the consumption of drinks and food, do not change the composition of the liquids they contain, do not add flavours or odours and are BPA-free.
what materials are plastic cups made of? This comparison table shows the main plastics in the catalogue, such as PLA, polypropylene, polystyrene and PET. Use it to find out their main compatibilities at a glance:
Comparative table of characteristics of a plastic cup:
| Types of cups | Impact resistance* | Cold beverages* | Hot beverages* | Microwaveable* | Transparent* |
| PLA | X | ✓ | X | X | ✓ |
| PET | ✓ | ✓ | X | X | ✓ |
| PS Crystal | X | ✓ | ✓ | X | ✓ |
| PS Hard Glass | X | ✓ | ✓ | X | ✓ |
| Foam | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | X | X |
| PP | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | X |
| Unbreakable PP | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | X |
(*) The properties of these materials may vary depending on the model and the tests certified by each manufacturer. Consult the product sheet for specific compatibilities for each model and if in doubt, please contact customer service.
Now that you have a clearer picture of what type of plastic disposable cups are made of, let's go through them one by one.
PLA biodegradable cups
at first glance, would you say this is a classic plastic cup? We would too, but what if we told you that these cups are made from 100% natural products? What do you think? The PLA (polylactic acid) biodegradable cups are of vegetable origin, that is, they are made only with sustainable raw materials, such as corn starch.
Its many advantages make it the material of the future. Why do we say so? Because they have very similar properties to plastic and also have all the advantages of being made from 100% plant-based materials, such as being biodegradable and compostable.
- Brilliant
- Light
- Rigid
- Biodegradable and compostable
why use PLA cups? Cold coffee, juices, soft drinks, smoothies, slushies and slushies. They are ideal for cold drinks because their thermal range is a maximum of 45ºC.
Economical polypropylene cups
They are made of 100% recyclable, chlorine-free polypropylene, which complies with the EU regulation for food use (EC regulation 1935/2004). The polypropylene cups are numbered with a 5. In the numbering of the disposable cups, the polypropylene cups are engraved with a 5. The range of economy cups stands out for its affordable prices for a very varied offer, suitable for serving hot and cold beverages.
They are the perfect type for excellent service on a tight budget: inexpensive, high-quality cups. In our shop you will find them in white, blue and transparent, and some models also have adaptable lids to offer a quality take-away service. Consult our customer service if you have any doubts.
- Withstands high temperatures
- Do not splinter when broken
- Smooth or textured
- Recyclable
why use economical polypropylene cups? Hot and cold drinks, soft drinks, cut fruit, yoghurt and other desserts.
Unbreakable polypropylene cups
These cups are made of thermoplastic polymer obtained from the polymerisation of polypropylene. They are very heat resistant (-10°C /120°C) so you can use them for hot and cold drinks. You can even put them in the microwave and dishwasher (depending on the model, check the manufacturer's certifications).
They are known as unbreakable due to their hardness and reliability, as they are able to withstand pressure without breaking. That is why they are the containers to use in your mass events such as concerts, parties or fairs, where it is recommended and in some cases required, the use of safe disposable cups to avoid damages -accidental or premeditated-.
- Shock and drop resistant
- Depending on the model, they can be microwaveable
- Reusable
- Recyclable
why use unbreakable polypropylene cups? Serve all kinds of hot and cold drinks, you can even cook in the microwave (remember to check the manufacturer's certifications first or consult our customer service). Ideal for mass events where safety is a concern, but also for children's parties.
Economic PS Cups
Made of polystyrene through the polymerisation of styrene monomer and you will recognise them by the number 6 engraved on them. Economy polystyrene models are disposable and are the best value for money for capacities between 80ml to 230ml (approx.).
Small plastic cups are widely used in coffee shops and vending services where your customers are looking for a quick coffee without having to stop for a long time, so they will thank you when they see a disposable cup they can take with them. The larger ones we recommend you use for parties, birthdays and anniversaries where you will need a large number of cups and are looking to save time on cleaning, as they can be easily disposed of for recycling after a single use.
- Functional, practical and disposable
- Perfect sizes for a quick coffee
- Perfect for vending machines
- Easy to stack
- Recyclable
why use the economical polystyrene cups? In coffee or water machines, take-away coffee, etc. They are also a type of jelly cups.
Economical PS Crystal Cups
Halfway between the cheap polystyrene ones and the hard PS Cristal ones, you can find the cheap PS Cristal ones, with a more transparent, rigid and brittle appearance. They are so called because their appearance is usually confused with glass and they will delight your most scrupulous customers because they will be able to clearly see what they are drinking.
Due to their transparency, worthy of real glass, they are very attractive for your customers as they allow them to see the drink they contain perfectly. You will find them in our shop with outstanding and very trendy designs: rough or diamond-effect walls, with stripes, hexagonal bodies, with Christmas motifs, coloured, etc.
- Very transparent
- Highly successful glass effect
- Some models of disposable cups with lids
- Easy to stack
- Recyclable
why use the cheap PS Cristal cups? Rely on them for all kinds of parties, concerts and festivals. The variety of their designs will guide you to adjust the model to the tone of the event and the sophistication of the event.
PS Hard Crystal Glass Tumblers
And we finish our review of polystyrene with the Hard Crystal version, in injected plastic. You won't find more resistant disposable cups. Another unbreakable and reusable line ideal for outdoor events and large crowds such as festivals or concerts that will convince you from the first use... and there are many of them.
If you are looking for a reusable cup that fits in with the sustainable spirit of your hospitality business, many of the models you will find in this section of our shop have a certified life cycle of up to 125 washes. This means that you can use them, wash them and reuse them at least 125 times without them losing any of their characteristics or harming the liquids they contain in any way with each use. Take sustainability!
From plastic shot glasses to those designed for pouring cider, which can hold more than half a litre: a wide range of options ideal for you and your guests.
- Extraordinary hardness
- Transparent and opaque
- Wide range of capacities
- Easy to stack
- Reusable
- Recyclable
why use hard crystal polystyrene cups? Their sturdiness and reusability allow you to use them for any occasion, both for hot and cold drinks.
PET cups
PET containers (engraved number 1) are made of polyethylene terephthalate, a type of polystyrene with its own personality. In the case of the cups, this personality is given in its transparency and its crystal effect touch, which will deceive more than one diner at the sight.
They are light and soft to the touch, but also very resistant.
It is a very common material for disposable glasses in bottles, because it highlights the content and makes it more attractive.
- Shine and transparency.
- Glass-like feel to the touch
- Lightweight
- Rigid
- High resistance
- Recyclable
- Models with domed and flat tops with crosses
- Compatible with personalised screen printing
- Recyclable
why use PET cups? These disposable containers are perfect for serving your cold cocktails, juices, smoothies, slushies or soft drinks.
FOAM cups
FOAM, or what everyone knows as white cork because of its characteristic appearance, is a material derived from polystyrene (expanded polystyrene) that has excellent thermal and insulating properties that allow you to keep both the heat and cold of your drinks for much longer.
are FOAM thermal cups one of the best options for maintaining the temperature? We can tell you that they are, and their firmness and lightness make them the perfect insulating material for your customers to transport their drinks perfectly.
- Isothermal capacity
- Compatible lid on product accessories
- Recyclable
- Hygienic and safe
And why use FOAM cups? To serve hot drinks such as coffee, chocolate, cappuccino or tea (and to keep them at the right temperature for a longer time)
Reusable cups
Reusable cups have the advantage that you can use them over and over again without losing any of their properties. If this is what you are looking for, you are in luck because you can find them in a variety of materials, shapes and colours.
In addition to those made of polypropylene (unbreakable PP) and polystyrene (PS Hard Crystal), cheap reusable cups suitable for reuse (with certified washing cycles), there are other very resistant and practically unbreakable materials that not only have the most original designs and the most functional solutions for all kinds of situations: SAN reusable cups, TRITAN and Durables.
SAN and TRITAN Reusable Cups
SAN is a copolymer of styrene and acrylonitrile that takes advantage of the characteristics of both compounds: stiffness, gloss and strength. Its ease of processing allows manufacturers to copy mould details with high fidelity. TRITAN is a new generation of recyclable copolyester resins. Its qualities include high transparency and resistance to breakage.
In our shop, you can choose your unbreakable shot glasses, beer mugs (from 500 to 1500 washes!), tube glasses, pint glasses..
- Hot or cold drinks
- High recyclable value at end of life
- Unbreakable
- Wash cycle from up to 125 to up to 500 wash cycles
- Original models with many details
PP Durable reusable cups
These premium items are made of durable materials of the highest quality. In the case of the cups, in our online shop you can find them in different capacities, colours and sizes, perfect for any cold or hot beverage.
They are characterised by their durability and resistance. They do not lose their properties wash after wash, are unbreakable and have an infinite lifespan.
It has great advantages over traditional tableware, and in addition to infinite durability, these containers are shockproof and drop-proof, so the dishes will not suffer casualties if a plate falls to the floor or is hit when washing it.
- Infinite durability
- Unbreakable
- Resistant
- Hot and cold drinks
- Top quality in the reusable range
Cardboard cups
In our extensive catalogue we have cups made of cardboard. Lightweight and resistant, they are very much associated with coffee, but the truth is that they are not limited to be used only with this hot drink. They are very versatile and can be used both as cardboard cups for coffee and infusions, and as cardboard cups for soft drinks and cold drinks, depending on the characteristics of each model (as is the case with plastic cups).
And do you know another great advantage? Each and every one of our disposable cardboard cups is made from cellulose that comes from forests that have been carefully certified for promoting sustainable practices, ensuring respect for environmental and ethical standards. By purchasing these cups you are avoiding deforestation and taking care of the environment.
- Lightweight
- Suitable for hot and cold beverages (depending on model)
- Biodegradable and recyclable
- Some models are compostable
Cardboard cups for hot and cold beverages
looking for an all-round cardboard cup? These models for hot and cold contents are your perfect choice to simplify the job and serve any type of beverage. They are very popular for hot drinks such as coffee, tea or herbal teas, especially to-go, on-the-go, so many have travel lids, ideal for your customers to enjoy their drink on the go.
At Monouso we have a wide variety: from plain coloured cups (white, brown) to printed, kraft cardboard models, we also have cardboard cups for vending and even those without plastic in their composition. In addition, you can find them in different capacities, from 75ml to more than 600ml. Large disposable cups are very successful for juices and soft drinks.
- They keep the temperature
- With a compatible lid, available as a product accessory, ideal for transport
- Stackable
- Recyclable
Cardboard cups for cold drinks only
Specially designed for cold drinks, what makes these cardboard cups different? Well, their design is perfectly designed to withstand this type of drinks, as they are able to resist cold liquids and ice without any problem, preventing leaks, cracks or softening. Our cardboard cups for cold drinks will be your great allies to serve all kinds of soft drinks, milkshakes, juices, smoothies, slushies or slushies!
In addition, you can combine these cups with the flat lids with cross (which you will find as an accessory in each of our products) so that your customers can transport and enjoy your drinks comfortably and without the risk of spillage.
- Stackable
- Will not stain or fall apart
- Recyclable
And, in this section, we can't forget the paper water cones, also known as conical water cups. Advantages? They are an original option for staff water machines in all kinds of businesses. Your employees will fill their cone-shaped cardboard water cup and immediately drink the water, thus preventing them from swirling around and spilling where they shouldn't.
Eco-friendly cardboard cups
do you want to start making a commitment to sustainability in your business? We also have the perfect cups for you.
The ecological cardboard cups are a firm commitment with which you can contribute to sustainability and care for the environment. What makes them special? Our biodegradable cups are made of completely natural materials, which means that no plastic has been used in their manufacture.
Within this range you will find the most sustainable cardboard or cardboard plus PLA (plant-based resins) cups on the market, 100% biodegradable and compostable.
- Plastic free
- Cardboard + PLA
- Biodegradable and compostable
These eco-friendly paper cups are suitable for hot or cold drinks and are the most eco-friendly choice for your take away.
Curly cardboard cups
The disposable cardboard cups are carefully designed for the consumption of hot beverages, especially for take-away.
Their greatest virtue is that, thanks to their practical design, they perfectly insulate the heat and prevent your customers from burning their hands when they pick them up filled with a hot drink. This embossing can be corrugated (triple-wall cardboard or corrugated cardboard), in small buttons or vertical lines.
With capacities ranging from 120 ml to over 400 ml, you can choose different sizes depending on whether they are for a black coffee or a tea with milk, for example.
- Thermo cups made of cardboard
- Rough and pleasant to the touch to protect from the heat
- Embossed exterior
Cardboard cups with lid
do you know the sugar cane cups? Their 100% natural origin is what makes these cups special. Made from bagasse, the residue of the sugar cane that remains after extracting its juice, they are characterised by their unique design and their unbeatable resistance to both hot and cold drinks.
You will recognise them at a glance. Their rough finish is very pleasant to the touch and their natural colours will reassure your customers from the first glance that they are a sustainable and ecological product.
- Rough and pleasant texture
- Biodegradable and compostable
- Suitable for hot and cold drinks
Functionalities: types of cups according to capacity and beverage
Now that we have talked about the features and advantages of disposable and reusable cups depending on the material they are made of, we are going to talk about the capacity of the cups, because it is clear that, depending on the type of drink you want to serve, you will need one size of cup or another.
for coffee? for a coffee? for a soft drink? Or for a beer? Whatever the drink you want your customers to enjoy, in our shop you will find the ideal glass, and don't forget that you can contact our customer service directly if you have any questions.
Main uses for disposable and reusable glasses
cold drink? Hot? Or better still, are you thinking of using them as small tasting glasses? There are no limits to what you can think of! Disposable and reusable cups are extremely versatile. Here is a list of the most popular uses for our cups:
- Cups for coffee and other hot drinks (tea, infusions)
- Glasses for soft drinks (colas, lemonades, sodas)
- Glasses for wine or cider
- Tumblers for cubatas
- Beer glasses
- Shot glasses
- Glasses for individual desserts and cut fruit
- Tasting glasses
- Tumblers for slushies and other very cold drinks(frappé, slushy)
- Shake and smoothie cups
Disposable cup sizes: capacities in millilitres
what shape is a disposable cup? Small cups, medium cups, large cups: this classification does not cover all the specific sizes that you can find in our online shop. See the table below for the main types according to their size and what you can call them professionally:
| Capacity in ml (approx.) | Name |
| 30 ml | Shot |
| 100 ml | Chato, zurito, chiquito, wine glass |
| 200 ml | Glass |
| 300 ml | Tube glass, glass on the rocks. |
| 450-550 ml | Pint glass (or shaker), cider glass |
| 750-1000 ml | Different names depending on the region: Cubalitro, mini, cachi, litro or maceta |
Accessories for glasses
You've probably already read about our lids, which we'll also talk about below, but there are many other accessories for our cups that will help you to improve your take away or delivery service. What are these? They range from cup holders, cup trays, cup dispensers to cup organisers... There's a lot going on with cups!
All our cup accessories are designed to make your service easier and allow your customers to enjoy their drinks in the most comfortable and safe way, don't you think it's all advantages?
Lids for disposable cups
In our review of the types of cups, you've probably already noticed that the most popular accessory is the lid. They come in all sorts of shapes. With openings. Closed. Transparent. Opaque. Whatever they are, cup lids have three main functions to fulfil:
- Protect the contents
- To prevent spillage when transporting
- To maintain the temperature of the beverage for a longer period of time
We have lids in a multitude of shapes and colours that fit perfectly with the models they come with. And how do you know if the lid is suitable for the glass you are going to buy? Very simple, at Monouso we like to make things easy and that is why we have selected the compatible lids for each of our glasses. When you go to the catalogue, you can find them under product accessories, so it's that easy to create your own airtight and safe combo! All our lids:
- Are easy to close
- Fit perfectly with the right cup
- Are safe during transport
- Do not leak the contents
Depending on the use you are going to give them, you should choose one type of lid or another:
- Flat lids. Also known as travel lids. They fit on their edges and have different openings: with a hole on one edge to drink directly, or in the centre and in the shape of a cross to insert a straw. The former are usually opaque, white or black, and the latter are translucent without being transparent. They are also available completely closed.
- Dome lids. Dome-shaped and transparent. These are the ones you should choose to serve fresh fruit, smoothies, frappés, slushies or milkshakes finished with a good portion of cream and syrup. Combined with transparent disposable plastic containers, they are the most attractive way to serve these types of preparations, which are generally very brightly coloured. You will find them closed or with a circular or cross-shaped hole for the straws.
Cup holders and trays
We have solutions for all kinds of problems. Has your customer ordered several coffees to go? Serve them comfortably in cardboard or plastic cup holders or in trays with cardboard holes. Do you want to provide extra safety so that they can enjoy a hot coffee without burning their hands? Use corrugated cardboard sleeves which, in addition to preventing your customers from burning themselves, keep the contents of the cup hotter for longer.
and if you want coffee and pastries? No problem. Cardboard cup trays with several holes and menu trays have space for drinks as well as a few treats.
You know, a well-prepared hosteller is worth two!
Cup dispensers and organisers
We don't know any more practical accessories than the ones we are going to introduce you to below. Disposable cup dispensers and organisers for cups, lids and straws will help you to have all the elements at hand in an orderly fashion.
Useful for your workers to be able to serve quickly, but also essential if you have a self-service establishment: convenience and elegance all in one.
With all this information, there are no excuses for choosing the ideal glass, the one that meets all the requirements of your catering business or event. If you are having trouble making up your mind, please contact us and we will be happy to help you with all your questions.
