Everyday Drinking Glasses

Everyday drinking glasses — tumblers, hobnail glass, double-walled cups and ultra-thin crystal, from 200 ml up.

What makes a good everyday glass?

A straight-sided tumbler with no opinion. A glass that does not declare itself a whiskey glass or a water glass serves both, which is why the plain cylinder is the most-used shape in any cupboard. Straight sides also stack and wash without a trap at the base.

What does double-walled glass do?

Two walls with air between them keep the outside cool enough to hold while the drink stays hot or cold for longer. It means no sleeve for a hot drink and no condensation ring on a table for a cold one. The trade-off is that they must be hand washed to protect the seal.

Which ones need hand washing?

Ultra-thin crystal, anything gilded, hand-painted glass and double-walled cups. Pressed glass, hobnail and plain tumblers take a dishwasher without trouble. A thin rim is the part that breaks, and a machine rack is where it happens. If a glass is not marked dishwasher safe, assume it is not.