Paper cups for hot beverages and cold drinks are designed differently to meet the unique demands of the temperatures and condensation they encounter. Here’s how they differ:

1. Materials and Coatings

Hot Beverage Cups

  • Material: Made of thick, high-quality paperboard to provide insulation and structural integrity against heat.
  • Inner Coating: Typically lined with polyethylene (PE) or biodegradable PLA (polylactic acid) to make them waterproof and prevent liquid absorption.
  • Double Wall or Insulated Design: Many hot cups feature an additional outer paper layer or built-in insulation to retain heat and protect hands from burning.

Cold Beverage Cups

  • Material: Usually made of thinner paperboard since they do not need to withstand high temperatures.
  • Inner and Outer Coatings: Coated with PE, PLA, or wax to resist condensation and prevent sogginess caused by cold liquids and ice.
  • Transparent Variants: Some cold drink cups are made of clear plastic or bio-plastic for visual appeal, especially for beverages like iced coffee or smoothies.

2. Temperature Resistance

Hot Beverage Cups:

  • Designed to withstand temperatures up to 200°F (93°C) or more without warping, softening, or leaking.
  • The material resists heat transfer to ensure safe handling, especially in single-wall designs that require a sleeve.

Cold Beverage Cups:

  • Optimized for cold liquids and ice but not suitable for high heat, as hot beverages can warp the paper or melt the wax or PE lining.
  • Condensation-resistance is a key feature to prevent the outer surface from becoming weak or slippery.

3. Functional Features

Hot Beverage Cups:

  • Often tapered and slightly thicker for heat retention and easy gripping.
  • Commonly paired with domed lids with a sipping hole to retain heat and allow safe consumption.
  • Designed to hold beverages like coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and soups.

Cold Beverage Cups:

  • Typically lightweight and paired with flat or domed lids with straw holes.
  • Designed to accommodate drinks like soda, smoothies, iced tea, or slushies.
  • Some include double-sided coatings to handle condensation effectively.

4. Environmental Considerations

  • Hot Beverage Cups: The double-wall or insulation layer adds to material use, but compostable versions made from biodegradable PLA or paperboard are available.
  • Cold Beverage Cups: Often use lighter materials, making them easier to recycle, but they also come in compostable options.