![Best Reusable Iced Coffee Cups](https://www.thespruceeats.com/thmb/ChX4Af2Z-LMVMk0r2Xy43_vQpMQ=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Spruce-best-reusable-iced-coffee-cups-4777424-f20c8e0e4e7e47dfa062f92094a45237.jpg)
The Spruce Eats / Amelia Manley
From sweltering summer days to subzero blizzards, die-hard iced coffee lovers crave their favorite caffeinated drink no matter the time, season, or temperature—that’s where reusable iced coffee cups come in handy. They are a great way to save money and reduce waste by cutting back on trips to the coffee shop; plus, they allow users to take their drink on the go, whether it be to the office, a get-together, or a hike.
We tested an array of reusable iced coffee cups in our Lab and sent some home with our writers to see how they fared over several weeks of use. Each coffee cup was rated on its design, size, functionality, effectiveness, and value. From there, we narrowed down the best options to create a list you can trust.
Best Overall
Contigo West Loop Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug
Effective auto-lock and anti-spill lid
Can lock and unlock with one hand
Keeps drinks hot/cold for hours
A little wide for smaller hands
The Contigo Autoseal West Loop offers everything you could want in a reusable iced coffee cup, from long-lasting durability to a sleek design, making it our top pick. Among the biggest perks is its leakproof design, which one of our testers verified by carrying around a full mug in her bag and finding it drip-free at the end of the day.
The West Loop performed even better than advertised when it came to insulation. We found our coffee to be piping hot for three hours and still warm enough to drink six hours after brewing. When we tested it with ice water, ice cubes stayed in the mug for 12 hours and the water remained refreshingly cold after 20 hours. You can purchase the West Loop in a color that fits your personality, too; there are eye-catching shades like Monaco and Passion Fruit, as well as timeless options like black and stainless steel.
While the mug is a little wide, it easily fits in car cupholders. Perhaps the only other drawback is that the body is hand-wash only. However, the lid is top-rack dishwasher safe.
Capacity: 16 ounces | Dimensions: 3.5 x 7.8 inches | Material: Stainless steel
The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
The Spruce Eats / Tamara Staples
Best With a Handle
Yeti Rambler 24-Ounce Mug with Magslider Lid
Large capacity and fits cupholders
Multiple color options
Dishwasher safe
Durable materials
Not leakproof
Initially known for high-end coolers, Yeti has ventured into drinkware with its line of Rambler products. The Rambler Mug is one of our favorites for iced coffee because of its sliding lid and cupholder-friendly shape. The tumbler keeps drinks hot or cold for several hours due to its double-walled vacuum insulation. Despite being on the pricier end, it’s popular and highly rated. We found it extremely durable, including the sturdy handle, and we appreciate that it can go in the dishwasher.
You can purchase it in three sizes—10, 14, or 24 ounces—and multiple colors, ranging from white, black, and stainless steel to more striking options like Seafoam and Peak Purple. This one isn't designed to be used with a straw, so keep that in mind. The only drawback is that the lid is not leakproof, so keep that in mind before stowing it in a bag or backpack.
Capacity: 24 ounces | Dimensions: 4.6 x 6.4 inches | Material: Stainless steel
![Yeti Rambler 20 oz Stainless Steel Tumbler displayed on a wood surface with a purple background](https://www.thespruceeats.com/thmb/HueVjYZJhoFPqtcEiCBYJ3Vu5jA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/spre-yeti-rambler-mug-tamara-staples-01-6377fe6489a64f7f9972dbb4de5d5a29.jpg)
The Spruce Eats / Tamara Staples
Best With Straw
Stanley Quencher H2.0
Easy to drink from straw
Large capacity
Durable materials
Not leakproof
Slightly pricey
The Stanley Quencher H2.0 offers several features that we prioritize in a reusable tumbler. The stainless steel (most of which is recycled) is durable and resists scratches–though, keep in mind it's not 100 percent scratchproof. The insulation is excellent and keeps drinks hot or cold for several hours. It also prevents intense condensation from building up on the exterior. Finally, the Quencher H2.0 comes with a reusable straw that's dishwasher-safe and easy to drink from. One of the few downsides is that the tumbler isn't completely leakproof. However, that only comes into play if you put it in a bag; otherwise, it doesn't leak during normal use.
The tumbler comes in five sizes ranging from 14 to 64 ounces. We tested the 40-ounce model and think it's a great size for hydration or a large serving of iced coffee. The Stanley name adds a few dollars to the price tag, but overall the Quencher H2.0 is only slightly more expensive than a typical stainless steel travel mug. Given the high-quality performance, it's a reasonable price for a companion you'll take to work or on the go every day.
Capacity: 40 ounces | Dimensions: 3.9 x 5.3 x 12.3 inches | Material: Stainless steel
The Spruce Eats / Renu Dhar
The Spruce Eats / Renu Dhar
The Spruce Eats / Renu Dhar
The Spruce Eats / Renu Dhar
The Spruce Eats / Renu Dhar
Best for Gifting
County Line Kitchen Cold Brew Mason Jar Coffee Maker
Can brew coffee and tea
High-quality infuser
All parts dishwasher safe
Instructions are vague at times
Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or just-because day, there’s never a bad reason to give your coffee-loving friend or family member this Mason jar cold brew maker. All you have to do for delicious cold brew is scoop the desired amount of coffee grounds into the steel filter, fill the jar with cold water, and let it sit overnight in your refrigerator. It took us no more than a few minutes to set up and, after refrigerating it for 36 hours, the cold brew was smooth and flavorful.
It's also an excellent gift option because Mason jars suit a variety of kitchen decors. County Line Kitchen keeps the price reasonable too, so you can throw in a bag of coffee beans if gifting, many of which are roasted specifically for cold brew. We found that the stainless steel filter eliminates the need for paper filters, cutting down on waste and saving a little money in the long run.
Even though the item is extremely easy to use, we found the instruction booklet vague at points, especially when it comes to the ratio of coffee grounds to water. As a solid starting point, we used a ratio of 4 cups of water for every 1 cup of coffee.
Capacity: 64 ounces | Dimensions: 4.5 x 10 inches | Material: Glass
The Spruce Eats / Cheyenne Elwell
The Spruce Eats / Cheyenne Elwell
Best for Travel
Bubba Envy Insulated Tumbler
No sweating
Lid seals tightly
Fits in car cupholders
Keeps drinks cold or hot
Can't close hole on lid
Not only is the Bubba Envy convenient for taking iced coffee on the road, it can also keep drinks hot for several hours and the straw is large enough to drink all kinds of smoothies. Overall, the item is versatile, durable, and reasonably priced.
We found that ice water stays cold for more than 20 hours and hot liquids maintain a suitable temperature for around five hours. The cup is made of stainless steel so it resists stains and odors, which is often an issue for plastic travel mugs, but does need to be hand-washed. Another detail we like is the indents on the outside of the cup that make it both comfortable to hold and ensure that it fits in a cupholder.
Unfortunately, the spout doesn't have a cover if you choose to remove the straw, so the mug can't be thrown in a bag or backpack when full.
Capacity: 30 ounces | Dimensions: 3.6 x 10.5 inches | Material: Stainless steel
The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan
The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan
The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan
The Spruce Eats / Tamara Staples
Best for Keeping Cold
Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Flex Sip Lid Bottle
Extremely durable
Easy to drink on the go
Keeps drinks hot/cold for hours
Not dishwasher-safe
Many coffee drinkers know the frustration of sipping lukewarm, watered-down iced coffee. That won't be an issue with the Hydro Flask Coffee with Flex Sip Lid. It performed well in a number of areas in our testing process, and one of them is certainly temperature retention. We filled the mug with ice water and found the ice cubes intact more than 12 hours later; the water was still cold after a full 24-hour day. And if you want to switch up your daily cup of joe, this pick also keeps beverages hot for up to 12 hours thanks to its double-walled thermal insulation.
It's available in three sizes—12, 16, and 20 ounces—as well as more than a dozen colors. Expect the Coffee Flask to be a long-term purchase; the product is backed by a lifetime guarantee and we found the stainless steel solid and durable. We confirmed that the mug is leakproof by carrying it around in a bag for several hours and even shaking it upside down over the sink. Keep in mind, however, that cleaning it in the dishwasher is not recommended, so you'll have to wash it by hand.
Capacity: 16 ounces | Dimensions: 2.9 x 7.9 inches | Material: Stainless steel
The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
Final Verdict
The Contigo Autoseal West Loop checks all the boxes: compact, affordable, leakproof, and it keeps your iced coffee cold. It's even easy to drink from while on the go, all of which earns it our top spot. Customers looking for a larger option will likely prefer the Yeti Rambler Tumbler—but keep in mind that the item is not leakproof.
How We Tested Iced Coffee Cups
We purchased and tested more than a dozen reusable iced coffee cups to provide an accurate assessment of the best options available today. Our testing team measured how long the cups kept beverages cold, gauged the durability of the materials, and took the cups outside the house to see what it was like using them while on the go. The majority of iced coffee cups were also tested side by side in our Lab. Each cup was then given a one to five rating on its design, size, functionality, effectiveness, and overall value so that we could narrow down the list above.
Other Options We Tested
- Soma Brew Bottle: The Soma Brew Bottle is a unique option because it's a two-in-one mug and brewing device. Unfortunately, the glass body broke during the testing process, so durability concerns are the main reason it can't be confidently recommended.
- Ello Campy Stainless Steel Travel Mug: One too many shortcomings prevent us from including the Ello Campy Mug on this list. Our product tester found that the paint can chip easily; plus, the lid is hard to clean and the mug itself is too large for some cupholders. There are still several positives, however, like its rustic aesthetic, large capacity, and sturdy handle.
![Person holding the Ello Campy 18oz Stainless Steel Travel Mug](https://www.thespruceeats.com/thmb/xBgPDlyPnrYENllldN1dUsN9GHA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Ello_TravelMugs_Campy19Oz_HeroSquare-228d1e16c8974d189fef7d3d7a9774a0.jpg)
The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan
What to Look for in a Reusable Iced Coffee Cup
Size
One of the first decisions to make before buying a reusable iced coffee cup is what size you want. Some people prefer larger bottles because they don't need to be refilled as often; others prefer smaller ones that can fit in bags, backpacks, and purses. Think about how much coffee (or other beverages) you drink in a day and then choose the size that works best for you.
Lid Style
Do you want a lid that makes it easy to sip while on the go? Or do you prefer using a straw? How important is it for an iced coffee cup to be leakproof? Questions like these will help you choose between flip lids and trigger-action lids (great for walking and driving), twist lids (the most secure), or bottles that come with straws.
Leakproof
Fortunately, it's quite easy to find iced coffee cups that are entirely leakproof. Whether you're walking to class, going on a hike, or simply making your daily commute, it's easier to transport a reusable cup if you can throw it into your bag. Make sure to read customer reviews beforehand, however, as some items advertised as leakproof may not actually be up to the task.
Material
Stainless steel and plastic are the two most common materials a reusable iced coffee cup comes in. Steel is certainly more durable, whereas plastic is a little lighter and easier to carry in a bag or backpack. You can't go wrong either way, but there are subtle differences between the two. One of the most common types of stainless steel used in drinkware is 18/8 stainless steel. Graham Nearn of the Stanley brand tells us it means the steel is made from 18 percent chromium and 8 percent nickel. It's a popular option because it's "food-grade, durable, and resistant to corrosion."
![Hand holding the Contigo Autoseal West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug](https://www.thespruceeats.com/thmb/Ca3coBtewlL_tA-xeZN9_z_vNOk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/1SP4072909-HeroSquare-9c84f287d42f4478be7901ae283b157b.jpg)
The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
FAQs
How do I clean my reusable iced coffee cup?
For most reusable iced coffee cups, a simple daily cleaning only requires scrubbing with dish soap and a sponge or gentle brush. Avoid using steel wool brushes and harsh household cleaners on stainless steel. For a more thorough clean, allow a solution of vinegar and baking soda to soak inside the mug for several minutes, then rinse and clean with dish soap before using again. It’s worth consulting the product details or instruction manual provided with your reusable iced coffee cup to see if it is dishwasher-safe. This is a common benefit of glass and plastic mugs but not always stainless steel. If your reusable iced coffee cup isn’t dishwasher-safe, don’t worry. Cleaning is still quite easy.
What is a vacuum-insulated mug?
The phrase “vacuum-insulated” pops up all over the place when searching for reusable coffee cups and mugs. It’s also commonly used with another phrase: “double-walled.” Both labels denote that a reusable coffee cup is built with two different layers, an inner wall and outer wall, and that the space between the layers is partially evacuated of air, creating a vacuum. This design allows drinks to retain their temperature for a longer period of time because they are less exposed to outside air.
Regarding temperature retention, we asked an expert what it means when a cup can supposedly keep coffee "cold" for a certain number of hours. Graham Nearn is the Senior Vice President of Product Creation & Design for PMI Worldwide and oversees the Stanley brand. While he didn't speak to other brands' regulations, he told us that Stanley considers a drink hot if it's between 140 to 203 degrees and cold if it falls between 39 and 50 degrees.
Can I put milk in a reusable coffee cup?
The short answer is yes, you can add milk or creamer to your coffee in a reusable iced coffee cup. Storing dairy products at warm temperatures can lead to bacteria growth, however, especially if the coffee mug is not cleaned properly afterward, so if you do add milk, make sure it’s only in the mug for a short amount of time and that the mug is cleaned thoroughly after drinking. Check if the manufacturer advises against adding milk or has any recommendations for cleaning afterwards too.
Can I put hot coffee in a reusable iced coffee cup?
The answer to this question is almost always yes. Most products labeled as "iced coffee cups" are suitable for hot coffee too. One of the few reasons a travel cup wouldn't work for hot coffee is if the material it's made from can't withstand the temperature, but that's unlikely, even with glass. The only other thing to keep in mind is that some reusable iced coffee cups can't be put in the microwave, especially if they are made with steel.
What’s the difference between iced coffee and cold brew?
Iced coffee and cold brew are different in the way they are prepared and in overall taste. Traditional iced coffee is made by brewing coffee hot first and then chilling it with ice afterward. Cold brew, on the other hand, is made by steeping coffee beans in nothing but cold water for several hours. This makes cold brew smoother in taste, lower in acidity, and able to stay fresh for a much longer period of time than iced coffee.
![Hydro Flask Thermos on a granite countertop](https://www.thespruceeats.com/thmb/o5psXnMDuIYOiZHIpzQEV9Tq2RY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best_Coffee_Thermoses_Hydro_Flask_Coffee_Flask_HeroHorizontal-eef4ef6573cd4f3fa2899829b12c4593.jpg)
The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
Why Trust The Spruce Eats?
This piece was written by Derek Rose, the coffee and tea expert for The Spruce Eats. He researches a variety of coffee products, from measuring scoops to commercial espresso machines, and interviews field experts for their insight. To select these products, he read customer reviews and third-party articles, and he researched what items best insulate beverages. He received an MFA in Creative Writing from Columbia University and a BA in Communications from Marist College.
Sources
Graham Nearn, the Senior Vice President of Product Creation & Design for PMI Worldwide, was interviewed for this piece. He oversees the Stanley brand, which has manufactured vacuum flasks and more since 1913.