Measuring cups – what to consider before choosing
Measuring cups – what to consider before choosing
A good measuring cup is an indispensable part of any kitchen – whether you are baking, making sauces or simply want to ensure precise quantities in your recipes. With the wide range of materials, sizes and designs, however, it can be difficult to find the measuring cup that best suits your needs.
In this article, you will get an overview of what you should consider before choosing measuring cups, as well as an insight into the different types and brands available on the market.
The article presents a wide range of measuring cups, from classic plastic models to more exclusive versions in glass and stainless steel. The aim is to provide an overview of features, materials and price ranges, so you can more easily assess which type best suits your kitchen. The information about the products is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to provide a clear and informative overview.
Factors to consider when buying measuring cups
When choosing measuring cups, it’s not just about appearance – precision, durability and ease of use play a major role. Here are some of the most important factors you should take into account.
1. Material
Measuring cups are typically available in plastic, glass or metal. Plastic is light and inexpensive but can absorb colour from ingredients. Glass is heavier but provides high precision and can withstand both heat and dishwashing. Stainless steel is particularly durable and suitable for both dry and liquid ingredients.
2. Scale and readability
A clear and accurate scale is crucial for precise measurements. Choose a measuring cup with easy-to-read markings, preferably in both millilitres and decilitres – and possibly cup measurements if you follow foreign recipes. Engraved or printed markings in a contrasting colour make reading easier.
3. Capacity and shape
Consider how much you typically measure at a time. Smaller cups (0.25–0.5 litres) are practical for baking, while larger models (1–2 litres) are well suited for liquids such as stock or batter. A spout and ergonomic handle make it easier to pour without spilling.
4. Maintenance
Check whether the measuring cup is dishwasher and heat safe. Glass and steel usually withstand higher temperatures than plastic. If you often work with greasy or coloured ingredients, a material that does not discolour can be an advantage.
5. Price and quality
The price depends on material and design. A cheap plastic measuring cup may be sufficient for occasional use, while a robust glass or steel measuring cup can be an investment that lasts for many years.
Products in focus
This measuring cup is made of stainless steel, providing a solid and long-lasting construction that withstands frequent use in the kitchen. The material makes it resistant to rust and discolouration, while also being easy to clean.
The cup has a capacity of 1 decilitre and is suitable for both liquid and dry ingredients. The sturdy shape and smooth surface make it easy to pour and measure accurately, whether used at home or in professional kitchens.
A metal measuring cup is a practical alternative to plastic ones, as it retains its shape over time and can withstand higher temperatures. The simple design makes it functional and easy to store with other kitchen equipment.
- Material: Made of stainless steel for high durability.
- Capacity: Accurately measures 1 decilitre.
- Use: Suitable for both dry and liquid ingredients.
- Design: Simple and functional design, easy to clean.
- Durability: Resistant to rust and deformation.
Pros and cons
- Long lifespan thanks to stainless steel
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Accurate measurement of 1 decilitre
- Suitable for both private and professional kitchens
- Lacks volume markings beyond 1 dl
- Can become hot when used near heat sources
Pros and cons
Pros
- Long lifespan thanks to stainless steel
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Accurate measurement of 1 decilitre
- Suitable for both private and professional kitchens
Cons
- Lacks volume markings beyond 1 dl
- Can become hot when used near heat sources
Pros
- Long lifespan thanks to stainless steel
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Accurate measurement of 1 decilitre
- Suitable for both private and professional kitchens
Cons
- Lacks volume markings beyond 1 dl
- Can become hot when used near heat sources
Specifications
- Product name: Measuring cup, stainless steel, 1 dl
- Material: Stainless steel
- Capacity: 1 decilitre
- Brand: Basis
- SKU: 123214
- Nordic Swan Ecolabel: No
- EU Ecolabel: No
Thumbs Up! - Cooks - Mug is a measuring cup with a capacity of 0.5 litres, made of borosilicate glass, which is known for its strength and resistance to temperature changes. This makes the product suitable for both cold and hot ingredients.
The design combines functionality and aesthetics with a blue and transparent colour combination that gives a modern look in the kitchen. The measuring units g, ml and oz are clearly marked, making it easy to measure accurately during cooking.
Although the product is not suitable for the dishwasher or microwave, it is easy to clean manually and can be used as both a measuring cup and a serving mug in the kitchen.
- Capacity of 0.5 litres: Allows for precise measurement of both liquid and dry ingredients.
- Borosilicate glass: A robust and heat-resistant material that withstands temperature differences.
- Multiple measuring units: Markings in grams, millilitres and ounces for flexible use.
- Decorative design: Blue and transparent colour combination that fits into modern kitchens.
Pros and cons
- Durable borosilicate glass
- Clear measuring units in g, ml and oz
- Compact size of 0.5 litres
- Can be used as both a mug and a measuring cup
- Not dishwasher safe
- Cannot be used in microwave
Pros and cons
Pros
- Durable borosilicate glass
- Clear measuring units in g, ml and oz
- Compact size of 0.5 litres
- Can be used as both a mug and a measuring cup
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Cannot be used in microwave
Pros
- Durable borosilicate glass
- Clear measuring units in g, ml and oz
- Compact size of 0.5 litres
- Can be used as both a mug and a measuring cup
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Cannot be used in microwave
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Thumbs Up!
- Model: 1001700
- Item number: 3193325
- EAN: 5060491772928
- Volume: 0.5 L
- Measuring units: g, ml, oz
- Material: Borosilicate glass
- Product colour: Blue, Transparent
- Dishwasher safe: No
- Microwave safe: No
- Weight: 164 g
The Stewart measuring jug in clear PP plastic has a capacity of 1 litre and is designed to make it easy to measure and pour liquids accurately. The transparent plastic makes it easy to read the measurement scale, ensuring precise dosing.
The material, polypropylene (PP), is known for its durability and resistance to chemicals, making the jug suitable for both cooking and cleaning tasks. It can be used in many contexts where precise liquid measurement is required.
The jug’s simple design and light weight make it easy to handle and clean, and it can be stacked or stored together with other measuring jugs for convenient space saving.
- 1-litre capacity: Allows for precise measurement of both small and larger quantities of liquid.
- Clear PP plastic: Transparent material that makes it easy to read the measurement scale.
- Versatile use: Suitable for both kitchen use and dosing cleaning agents.
- Lightweight and durable: Made of robust plastic that withstands daily use.
- Easy cleaning: Smooth surface that makes the jug easy to rinse and wipe.
Pros and cons
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Suitable for both household and cleaning use
- Clear plastic makes it easy to read the measurement scale
- Robust and chemical-resistant material
- Plastic material may become scratched over time
- Not suitable for very hot liquids
Pros and cons
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Suitable for both household and cleaning use
- Clear plastic makes it easy to read the measurement scale
- Robust and chemical-resistant material
Cons
- Plastic material may become scratched over time
- Not suitable for very hot liquids
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Suitable for both household and cleaning use
- Clear plastic makes it easy to read the measurement scale
- Robust and chemical-resistant material
Cons
- Plastic material may become scratched over time
- Not suitable for very hot liquids
Specifications
- Brand: Stewart
- Product name: Measuring jug, PP plastic clear
- Capacity: 1 litre
- Material: Polypropylene (PP) plastic
- Colour: Clear
- SKU: 101028
- Nordic Swan Ecolabel: No
- EU Ecolabel: No
Product descriptions
This measuring cup is made of stainless steel, providing a solid and long-lasting construction that withstands frequent use in the kitchen. The material makes it resistant to rust and discolouration, while also being easy to clean.
The cup has a capacity of 1 decilitre and is suitable for both liquid and dry ingredients. The sturdy shape and smooth surface make it easy to pour and measure accurately, whether used at home or in professional kitchens.
A metal measuring cup is a practical alternative to plastic ones, as it retains its shape over time and can withstand higher temperatures. The simple design makes it functional and easy to store with other kitchen equipment.
- Material: Made of stainless steel for high durability.
- Capacity: Accurately measures 1 decilitre.
- Use: Suitable for both dry and liquid ingredients.
- Design: Simple and functional design, easy to clean.
- Durability: Resistant to rust and deformation.
Pros and cons
- Long lifespan thanks to stainless steel
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Accurate measurement of 1 decilitre
- Suitable for both private and professional kitchens
- Lacks volume markings beyond 1 dl
- Can become hot when used near heat sources
Pros and cons
Pros
- Long lifespan thanks to stainless steel
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Accurate measurement of 1 decilitre
- Suitable for both private and professional kitchens
Cons
- Lacks volume markings beyond 1 dl
- Can become hot when used near heat sources
Pros
- Long lifespan thanks to stainless steel
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Accurate measurement of 1 decilitre
- Suitable for both private and professional kitchens
Cons
- Lacks volume markings beyond 1 dl
- Can become hot when used near heat sources
Specifications
- Product name: Measuring cup, stainless steel, 1 dl
- Material: Stainless steel
- Capacity: 1 decilitre
- Brand: Basis
- SKU: 123214
- Nordic Swan Ecolabel: No
- EU Ecolabel: No
Thumbs Up! - Cooks - Mug is a measuring cup with a capacity of 0.5 litres, made of borosilicate glass, which is known for its strength and resistance to temperature changes. This makes the product suitable for both cold and hot ingredients.
The design combines functionality and aesthetics with a blue and transparent colour combination that gives a modern look in the kitchen. The measuring units g, ml and oz are clearly marked, making it easy to measure accurately during cooking.
Although the product is not suitable for the dishwasher or microwave, it is easy to clean manually and can be used as both a measuring cup and a serving mug in the kitchen.
- Capacity of 0.5 litres: Allows for precise measurement of both liquid and dry ingredients.
- Borosilicate glass: A robust and heat-resistant material that withstands temperature differences.
- Multiple measuring units: Markings in grams, millilitres and ounces for flexible use.
- Decorative design: Blue and transparent colour combination that fits into modern kitchens.
Pros and cons
- Durable borosilicate glass
- Clear measuring units in g, ml and oz
- Compact size of 0.5 litres
- Can be used as both a mug and a measuring cup
- Not dishwasher safe
- Cannot be used in microwave
Pros and cons
Pros
- Durable borosilicate glass
- Clear measuring units in g, ml and oz
- Compact size of 0.5 litres
- Can be used as both a mug and a measuring cup
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Cannot be used in microwave
Pros
- Durable borosilicate glass
- Clear measuring units in g, ml and oz
- Compact size of 0.5 litres
- Can be used as both a mug and a measuring cup
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Cannot be used in microwave
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Thumbs Up!
- Model: 1001700
- Item number: 3193325
- EAN: 5060491772928
- Volume: 0.5 L
- Measuring units: g, ml, oz
- Material: Borosilicate glass
- Product colour: Blue, Transparent
- Dishwasher safe: No
- Microwave safe: No
- Weight: 164 g
The Stewart measuring jug in clear PP plastic has a capacity of 1 litre and is designed to make it easy to measure and pour liquids accurately. The transparent plastic makes it easy to read the measurement scale, ensuring precise dosing.
The material, polypropylene (PP), is known for its durability and resistance to chemicals, making the jug suitable for both cooking and cleaning tasks. It can be used in many contexts where precise liquid measurement is required.
The jug’s simple design and light weight make it easy to handle and clean, and it can be stacked or stored together with other measuring jugs for convenient space saving.
- 1-litre capacity: Allows for precise measurement of both small and larger quantities of liquid.
- Clear PP plastic: Transparent material that makes it easy to read the measurement scale.
- Versatile use: Suitable for both kitchen use and dosing cleaning agents.
- Lightweight and durable: Made of robust plastic that withstands daily use.
- Easy cleaning: Smooth surface that makes the jug easy to rinse and wipe.
Pros and cons
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Suitable for both household and cleaning use
- Clear plastic makes it easy to read the measurement scale
- Robust and chemical-resistant material
- Plastic material may become scratched over time
- Not suitable for very hot liquids
Pros and cons
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Suitable for both household and cleaning use
- Clear plastic makes it easy to read the measurement scale
- Robust and chemical-resistant material
Cons
- Plastic material may become scratched over time
- Not suitable for very hot liquids
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Suitable for both household and cleaning use
- Clear plastic makes it easy to read the measurement scale
- Robust and chemical-resistant material
Cons
- Plastic material may become scratched over time
- Not suitable for very hot liquids
Specifications
- Brand: Stewart
- Product name: Measuring jug, PP plastic clear
- Capacity: 1 litre
- Material: Polypropylene (PP) plastic
- Colour: Clear
- SKU: 101028
- Nordic Swan Ecolabel: No
- EU Ecolabel: No
Different types of measuring cups
Measuring cups come in many varieties, each with its own advantages depending on how you use them in the kitchen.
1. Classic measuring cups
Traditional measuring cups with clear markings and a spout are ideal for both liquid and dry ingredients. They come in many sizes and materials and are a safe choice for everyday use.
2. Sets with measuring cups and spoons
Measuring cups and spoons are often used for baking, where precision is important. They come as sets with fixed measurements (e.g. 1 dl, ½ dl, 1 tbsp), making it easy to follow recipes without having to read scales.
3. Collapsible measuring cups
These models are practical in small kitchens, as they can be folded and take up minimal space in the drawer. They are typically made of silicone and are best suited for dry ingredients.
4. Electronic measuring cups
Some modern measuring cups have a built-in scale or digital measuring function, combining volume and weight measurement in one tool. They are ideal for precision cooking and for those who want technological convenience.
Different brands of measuring cups
There are many manufacturers of measuring cups, each focusing on design, functionality and quality.
Pyrex
Pyrex is known for its durable glass products, including measuring cups that can withstand oven, microwave and dishwasher use. They have clear measurement scales and a classic design, making them popular in many kitchens.
OXO
OXO Good Grips produces ergonomic measuring cups with non-slip handles and easy-to-read markings. Their innovative design allows you to read the measurements from above, increasing accuracy.
Joseph Joseph
Joseph Joseph offers modern and space-saving solutions, including collapsible measuring cups and sets of colour-coded measuring cups. The brand combines functionality with aesthetics and suits the design-conscious kitchen.
Brabantia
Brabantia focuses on quality and durability with measuring cups in stainless steel and plastic. They are simple, solid and suitable for both professional and home kitchens.
IKEA
IKEA offers affordable measuring cups in plastic and glass that meet most everyday needs. They are easy to find, easy to clean and great for beginners or as an extra set.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between measuring cups for liquid and dry ingredients?
Measuring cups for liquids typically have a spout and a scale on the side, while measuring cups for dry ingredients are designed to be filled to the top and levelled off. This provides more accurate measurements when baking.
Can I use one measuring cup for both hot and cold liquids?
Yes, if the measuring cup is made of glass or stainless steel. Plastic cups, however, can deform at high temperatures, so check the manufacturer’s instructions before pouring in hot liquids.
How do I prevent the markings from wearing off?
Choose a measuring cup with engraved or moulded markings instead of printed ones. If you use a dishwasher, choose a cup marked as dishwasher safe to extend its lifespan.
How accurate are measuring cups?
Most measuring cups are sufficiently accurate for everyday cooking. For baking or recipes where precision is crucial, it’s a good idea to supplement with a kitchen scale.
How many measuring cups do you need?
A single measuring cup can cover most needs, but many choose to have a set in different sizes – especially if you often make recipes with both dry and liquid ingredients.
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