When choosing what type of glassware to use, it’s important to think about what drinks you enjoy, your available storage space, and whether you love to entertain. Read on to learn more about what type of glassware is right for you!

Types of Glassware: Everyday Glasses

Drinking Glass: A drinking glass is a common, everyday glass that ranges in size and shape. It tends to be simple in design and is commonly used for nonalcoholic beverages like water and juice. Opt for a set of glasses to fill your cabinet or a single glass to add to an existing collection.

Goblet: Goblets are multipurpose glasses commonly used for sparkling water or tea. Goblets tend to have smaller bases and a large bowl on top. Some goblets have handles that are used for serving coffee or dessert-like beverages. They are made of thicker glass to provide insulation for the beverage inside, maintaining the temperature longer.

Double-Wall Glass: A double-wall glass has a second layer of glass inside the cup to help insulate and maintain your beverage's temperature, whether that be cold or hot. The double wall helps prevent heat entering or escaping.

Mason Jar: While they are known for food preservation, mason jars have become popular glassware for their versatility. They range between 12–24 oz. and have a jar-like shape with a large opening on the top. If you find yourself on the go, opt for a mason jar with a lid to prevent spilling. Some mason jars have handles on the side, making them easier to hold.

Outdoor Glass: If you find yourself eating outside, you’ll want to invest in glassware that is suitable for the outdoors. Outdoor glasses are made of acrylic, making them more durable.

Types of Glassware: Bar Glassware

Wine Glasses: Wine glasses are available for both red and white wines, as different glasses complement different types of wine. Wine glasses have thin stems that connect to a large bowl, creating enough space for the wine to oxidize and release aromas. Red wine glasses have large bowls, giving the wine room to oxidize. White wine glasses have narrow bowls, helping to prevent over-oxidation. Opt for a stemless glass for a different look. Read our guide Types of Wine Glasses: Everything You Need to Know to find the right wine glass for you.

Champagne Glasses: Enjoy your champagne in a champagne glass. A champagne glass is a long glass with a skinny stem and is designed to keep the carbonation crisp. Champagne glasses are not designed to be filled to the brim. Instead, leave space for bubbles to rise and for fun garnishes on top.

Beer Glasses: There are a variety of beer glasses, ranging from the most common pint glass to specialty glasses like the snifter. Each glass is designed to keep that type of beer fresh and tasting its best. Read more about beer glass types in A Guide to Beer Glass Types.

Cocktail Glasses: Like wine and beer glasses, there are a variety of cocktail glasses. Each glass is designed to create the best drinking experience for your cocktail of choice. If you find yourself entertaining often, it’s important to know the difference between each glass. Read our guide Cocktail Glasses & Bar Glassware: Everything You Need to Know to find what glass to stock your bar with.

Types of Glassware: Features

Dishwasher-Safe: Skip washing glasses by hand and opt for glassware that is dishwasher-safe. You’ll spend more time with family and less time cleaning glassware in the kitchen.

Stackable: If you have limited cabinet space, look for glassware that can be stacked. Stackable glassware allows you to fit more glasses in a smaller space.

Break-Resistant: For families with little ones or families that entertain often, opt for break-resistant glassware. Break-resistant glassware is harder to break, giving you more peace of mind.

Insulated: Keep your drinks chilled for longer with an insulated glass. It features double-wall insulation, letting you enjoy your beverage without your hand getting cold.

Lead-Free: Glass drinkware normally does not have lead, but if you have any worry, opt specifically for lead-free glassware. You’ll have peace of mind knowing the glassware that you use daily is lead-free.

BPA-Free: If you are looking for glassware without bisphenol A, opt for BPA-free glassware. You’ll enjoy your glassware more often knowing that it does not include BPA.