Guide to coffee and drink cups: single-wall, double-wall and lids

Single-wall paper cups

A single-wall cup is the most economical choice for hot drinks consumed quickly - espresso, tea or coffee on site. With very hot drinks the outside gets hot, so for takeaway a cardboard sleeve or a second cup is often added.

Double-wall and ripple cups

A double-wall or ripple cup has an air layer that insulates heat. Guests can hold it comfortably without a sleeve and the drink stays hot longer. It pays off for coffee to go and larger sizes.

Calculate the cost per serving: a double-wall cup can be cheaper than a single-wall cup plus a sleeve.

Clear plastic cups for cold drinks

For iced coffee, frappé, smoothies, lemonade and fresh juice, clear PET cups are most common - the drink is visible, which helps sales. PET cups are not for hot drinks.

A lid that actually fits

The lid must match the diameter of the cup's rim, not just its volume - two cups with the same volume can have different rims. Before a large order, test the cup and lid together.

• Flat lid with sip hole - for hot drinks
• Dome lid - for drinks with cream or ice
• Lid without hole - for delivery, with a separate straw
• Always check that the lid sits firmly and doesn't leak

Quick list for cafés

Most cafés do well with a small, proven range instead of many different items.

• 2-3 sizes for hot drinks and one lid that fits them all
• 1-2 sizes of clear cups for cold drinks
• Cup carriers for larger takeaway orders
• Straws and stirrers to match the menu