5 Ceramic Mugs We Love for Sustainable Sips
There’s nothing better than caressing a cup of your favorite warm beverage in your hands. Whether it’s coffee to power a dynamic start to your day or an evening tea to unwind, the comforting aroma and flavors of your preferred brew are a true highlight of the human experience. But did you know that the vessel encasing that liquid goodness can affect the overall experience? Let’s take a look at some of the best ceramic mugs and how they can help you enjoy your favorite warm beverage even more.
What are Ceramic Mugs, Exactly? Are They Worth It?
Ceramic mugs are made from nonmetallic minerals. The natural clay material is both aesthetically pleasing and much better for the planet than either metal or plastic-based vessels. Ceramic is also proven to accentuate the delicate flavors of coffee and tea, making these mugs a win-win for those who want to do something good for themselves and the world around them.
Are ceramic mugs microwave-safe?
Yes! Ceramic mugs are microwave-safe, which is perfect for those who wish to heat their beverage to an ideal drinking temperature.
Top 5 Ceramic Mugs: How We Chose
We scoured the shelves to bring you our top five ceramic mugs. We focused on the following important characteristics to bring you only the best:
- Quality Craftsmanship: This speaks to the overall construction of the product, its durability, and its resistance to wear and tear.
- Aesthetics: We want to bring you a product that looks as good as it feels in your hand. Here, we focused on the finish, design, and color options.
- Commitment to Sustainability: This is all about the brand’s desire to build and sell its product in an earth-friendly way so you can feel good about your purchase.
- Drinking Experience: Often an overlooked factor, we wanted to ensure that your coffee consumption is as enjoyable as possible.
Our Picks
All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author and DGHQ editors. However, Do Good HQ may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.
1. Year & Day Ceramic Mugs
Material | Ceramic with semi-matte glaze finish |
Dimensions | 3.5” diameter, 4” height, 12 oz capacity |
Quantity | 4 pieces |
Price at Publishing | $60.00 |
If you’re looking for a quality ceramic coffee mug, look no further than Year & Day. These elegantly styled mugs are crafted in Portugal. They’re both a pleasure to hold in your hands and a beautiful addition to your cupboard.
Highlights
These ceramic mugs by Year & Day are available in a variety of earthy tones, all featuring a semi-matte finish that stands out for its simplicity. With a smooth handle for comfort and a slightly tapered body, these mugs are ideal for your favorite morning brew. Plus, they’re microwave-, freezer-, and dishwasher-safe!
Things to Consider
Based on their craftsmanship and durability, these mugs are a value in middle-priced hot beverage vessels.
2. Our Place Night & Day Mugs
Material | Chip-resistant ceramic stoneware |
Dimensions | 3.5” diameter, 3.75” height, 16 oz capacity |
Quantity | 4 pieces |
Price at Publishing | $65.00 |
Featuring a hand-painted rim and scratch-resistant glossy interior, these stackable mugs are as handsome as they are sturdy. This ceramic mug set by Night + Day is constructed to restaurant-grade standards, so you can enjoy them for years to come.
Highlights
The slightly narrow opening helps keep your beverage warm, while the chip-resistant finish allows you to keep them in your kitchen longer. They are available in five neutral tones to match your current beverage and flatware collection.
Things to Consider
For both ruggedness and their pleasing design, these ceramic mugs represent an excellent find. However, the limited color availability may not work with your individual taste.
3. The Mug by East Fork
Material | Regionally sourced clay |
Dimensions | 3.1” diameter, 4.25” height, 12 oz capacity |
Quantity | Sold individually or in sets of 4 |
Price at Publishing | $44.00 each, discounted for a set of 4 |
This handcrafted ceramic mug is designed for the ultimate beverage experience. The smooth finish and comfortable shape might just make the morning your new favorite time of day.
Highlights
Crafted with care in Asheville, North Carolina, The Mug by East Fork is made to change the way you view your favorite beverage. A perfect blend of durability and style, these mugs come in a variety of natural colors with seasonal palettes available for the discerning drinker.
Things to Consider
Although constructed with thoughtful quality, these 12-ounce mugs are a bit heavy for their capacity. The price may turn some people off, but these lead-free ceramic mugs are truly a pleasure to use.
4. Heath Ceramics Large Mug
Material | Handcrafted ceramic |
Dimensions | 3.25” diameter, 4.75” height, 12 oz capacity |
Quantity | Sold individually |
Price at Publishing | $45.00 each |
The Large Mug by Heath Ceramics is designed and crafted in Sausalito, California, to high standards of style and drinkability. If you are looking for a large ceramic mug with an elegant glazed finish and a variety of colors to choose from, this mug is an excellent choice.
Highlights
The Large Mug has been in production for over 20 years and has become a favorite of coffee and tea drinkers everywhere. They fit comfortably in the hand and look splendid on the shelf.
Things to Consider
These mugs pass the overall durability test, but Heath Ceramics recommends cleaning them with gentle detergents and heating your beverage slowly to avoid temperature shock.
5. Mora Ceramics Double Walled Ceramic Travel Mug with Lid
Material | Double-walled paladin clay |
Dimensions | 3.5” diameter, 6.5” tall, 14 oz capacity |
Quantity | Sold individually |
Price at Publishing | $20.99 |
Crafted for convenience, this ceramic travel mug fits neatly in your car’s cup holder and features a splash-resistant lid. It’s a great choice for coffee enthusiasts with busy lifestyles.
Highlights
These travel mugs are handmade and available in an array of beautiful colors. Designed with a reduced drinking hole to prevent spilling, they’re perfect for those who never leave home without their favorite beverage.
Things to Consider
The Mora Ceramics Double Walled Travel Mug is splash-resistant but not leakproof. The body of the mug is both dishwasher and microwave-safe, but the lid should be hand-washed and is not microwave-safe.
How to Choose Ceramic Mugs You’ll Love
When shopping for your next ceramic mug, you’ll want to ask yourself the following questions:
- Am I drinking on the go? This is where travel mugs come into play. Look for one with a securely fitting lid and cup holder compatibility.
- Which designs fit with my existing kitchen motif? Color and finish factor into this decision. Fortunately, there are plenty of design options out there to fit your taste.
- To share or not to share? Are you looking for a single mug for yourself? Perhaps enough to host a group of friends for a warm cup of brew? Price and purchasing options can help narrow down your choices based on how many mugs you intend to buy.
With so many ceramic mugs available to the conscientious consumer, it can be difficult to start your search for the perfect product. Fortunately, this list takes some of the guesswork out of shopping, so you can be sure you’ve selected an item that you’ll cherish every time you pull it out of your cabinet.
Featured image via East Fork