Tea Mugs & Teacups: The Proper Way To Enjoy Your Hot Drink

As most tea lovers know, one cup is never enough. The aroma, the taste, the ritual — tea drinking is a powerful experience and it’s best enjoyed with a quality cup. But there are tons of options … handles, no handles, big, small, glass … which one is best?

How to find the perfect size teacup and tea mug

First, let’s uncover the difference between teacups and tea mugs. A teacup is on the smaller side and it’s usually used in formal settings. Think tea parties or tea ceremonies. Tea mugs are just like coffee mugs, and a little bigger than teacups (usually at least 8oz). And they’re great for daily or casual use.

To find the perfect size cup or mug for your tea, look to your teapot for cues. Smaller teapots call for smaller teacups. Bigger brews with strainers are best for bigger mugs.

Which teacup material is best?

Just like teapots, teacups are made from many different materials.

Ceramic teacups

• Porous or nonporous design

• Usually served with a saucer

• Great heat retention and green tea brews

Glass teacups

• Borosilicate glass is best for heat retention

• Vacuum-insulated double-walled glass is also great for heat

• High visibility and ideal for green tea

Vintage teacups

• Interesting aesthetic

• Usually porcelain or bone china

• Flat or pedestal bottoms

Chinese teacups

• Smaller and more delicate

• Great for white and green teas

• Best for highly-concentrated brews

Antique teacups

• It May not be best for drinking

• Smaller designs

• Beautiful and rare artwork

Which tea mug material is best?

Tea mugs are also crafted from different materials.

Ceramic mugs

• No lingering aromas or flavors

• Use hot or cold

• Thicker mugs have great heat retention

Insulated steel mugs

• Durable design

• Easy to clean and maintain

• Usually eco-friendly

Enamel mugs

• Lightweight

• Shatterproof

• Dishwasher safe and easy to clean

Why does tea taste better in a mug?

Some tea lovers prefer tea mugs because of the subtle taste difference. Most mugs don’t hang on to tea aromas and flavors. So each mug of tea is as fresh as the one before it.

Alternatively, some tea lovers prefer mugs because of how they feel in their hands. Tea mugs are heavier than teacups, and we associate heaviness with quality.

Are Shopviva teacups and tea mugs leak-proof?

Yes! All VIVA teacups and mugs available through https://us.shopviva.com/ are leakproof. This is because VIVA makes every no-leak lid with a double-sealing mechanism.