Dog Lovers Coffee Mugs

When it comes to coffee mugs, it’s like coffee – tastes vary. And from classic to modern, there’s definitely something for every coffee lover. Ceramic, in particular, has made a huge comeback in recent years. But what sets a ceramic mug apart from classic porcelain?

Ceramic Coffee Mug:

The difference between ceramic and porcelain lies in the type of clay used during production. Ceramic coffee mugs are made from plastic and non-plastic materials such as quartz, chalk, and feldspars. Porcelain, on the other hand, consists of kaolin, feldspar, and quartz.

The word “ceramic” comes from the ancient Greek (“keramos”) and means “fired clay.” So, the cups are made of clay. This clay can have different qualities. There are two main groups:

• Earthenware (Stoneware (Earthenware)): Clay and loam are fired at slightly below 1,200°C (2192°F). This resulting ceramic is still rough and porous in its unglazed state (e.g., as terracotta). If a glaze is applied to the unfinished product from the inside and outside, the clayware becomes waterproof and is mostly referred to as “stoneware.”
  Stoneware or Porcelain (Stoneware or Porcelain (Stoneware)): Clay and loam are fired at slightly over 1200°C (2192°F). Due to the high temperatures, the material fuses together. This makes it waterproof, even without extra glaze. There is also a distinction between stoneware and high-quality porcelain.

Interesting fact: The temperature around 1200°C (2192°F) is called the sintering limit. That’s why stoneware or porcelain is also called sintered material.

Both earthenware and porcelain have a good heat retention capacity. Earthenware mugs are usually a bit thicker and have a rustic look. The fine veins in the glaze that develop over time are particularly characteristic of earthenware. This is how earthenware can be distinguished from stoneware.

For coffee enjoyment today, modern stoneware is usually preferred because it is denser than earthenware and less susceptible to cracks and leaks.

This is mainly because stoneware is fired at a higher temperature, making the glaze more resistant.

Porcelain Coffee Mug:

Porcelain can be distinguished between hard and soft porcelain. Hard porcelain has a higher kaolin content compared to soft porcelain. Also, the firing temperatures are higher than those for soft porcelain.

Porcelain was first discovered during excavations in China, probably in the 16th or 17th century BC.

Europe began producing porcelain in the late Renaissance. In 1710, the first European porcelain production facility was established in Meissen. The famous “Meissen porcelain” comes from there. Vienna and Capodimonte (Italy) followed suit.

Porcelain is not only a noble material, it is also very lightweight – and therefore often more expensive than ceramic. Ceramic, on the other hand, may not be as expensive but can also break more easily.

Metal Coffee Mug:

Metal coffee mugs are lightweight and retain heat for a long time. Chrome, in particular, gives off an elegant and cool vibe, giving it a modern look. These mugs became popular through cocktails like the “Moscow Mule,” which looks really impressive in its copper appearance.

Attention: We wouldn’t recommend purchasing a (pure) copper mug as it releases copper ions into the beverage.

Glass Coffee Mug:

Often, cafes offer glass mugs, which are visually striking but don’t retain the heat of the coffee as well. However, if you enjoy both coffee and tea, glass mugs are still a good choice since they can be used for both beverages.

The color of the coffee looks particularly beautiful in glass coffee mugs. They also have a very minimalist appearance. Due to the transparent nature of the glass, glass mugs are particularly suitable for drinks like latte macchiatos, as the alternating layers of coffee and milk are clearly visible – quite literally an eye-catcher.

Interesting fact: Transparent coffee mugs are usually made of heat-resistant borosilicate glass. Therefore, they won’t shatter at high temperatures!

Enamel Coffee Mug:

Enamel is created by applying easily melting glass onto metal. Due to the smooth surface, enamel coffee mugs are easy to clean. They also inhibit bacteria and, with proper care, can be quite durable.

If you like enamel mugs, it’s best to buy ones with handles. Since enamel is thermally conductive, the coffee mug heats up quickly.