Cups & Travel Mugs

The best buy-it-for-life travel mugs use stainless steel, vacuum insulation and leakproof lids with replaceable seals. Look for mugs with warranties of 10 years or more, plus the option to buy spare parts - especially lids and gaskets, which get the most wear. Stainless steel lasts far longer than plastic, and some brands even offer repair services. A proper buy-it-for-life mug should survive the daily commute without flinching. Learn more about our process for selecting truly durable products here.

To clean a stainless steel travel mug properly, hand-wash with warm water, mild detergent and a soft brush. Avoid bleach or anything scratchy, as these can damage the surface. For stubborn smells, try diluted vinegar or a baking soda paste - leave it for 15 minutes, then rinse well. Some lids can be taken apart for a more thorough clean. While a few mugs are dishwasher-safe, hand-washing tends to keep seals in better nick. For more advice, read our Product Care and Repair tips.

The main difference between a cup and a travel mug is insulation and practicality. Regular cups, usually ceramic or glass, are for sipping at home. A travel mug is tougher, with double-walled insulation to keep drinks hot (or cold) and a lid to prevent spills on the go. Most are made from stainless steel and fit neatly in a backpack or car cup holder. In short, one stays in the kitchen, the other joins the adventure.

Most standard home coffee machines have a spout clearance of 10–12cm, so not every travel mug will fit. For fuss-free mornings, look for a short or barista-friendly mug, sometimes labelled as espresso size. Tall, insulated ones may need you to remove the drip tray or pour via a jug. Always compare the mug’s height to your machine before buying - it’s worth the small bit of measuring faff.

The most durable travel mugs can keep drinks hot for 6–12 hours and cold for up to 24, thanks to double-walled vacuum insulation. Stainless steel is the gold standard here, outperforming plastic or single-wall mugs. Real-life results vary, of course - if you keep popping the lid, the heat will wander off quicker. Some brands even publish lab-tested performance times (for the curious among us).

Yes, you can take a travel mug through airport security, as long as it’s empty. Liquids over 100ml are a no-go, but the mug itself is absolutely fine in hand luggage. Once past security, just refill it at a café or fountain. A leakproof stainless steel mug is ideal for travel and helps cut down on single-use waste from terminal to touchdown.

To remove tea stains from ceramic cups, mix a bit of baking soda with water to make a gentle paste. Rub it onto the stain with a cloth or sponge, then rinse well. For tougher marks, fill the cup with diluted white vinegar and leave it for 10–15 minutes. Skip bleach - it can damage glazes and leave lingering nasties. For more tips, see our full guide on how to remove stains naturally and effectively.

Our collection of long-lasting coffee mugs and travel cups makes a cracking gift for any coffee enthusiast. From sleek insulated mugs to handmade ceramics, each one is built to last. Browse our durable gift ideas to find something thoughtful that won’t end up in the back of a cupboard.