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Types of Reusable Plastic Drinkware

Types of Reusable Plastic Drinkware

When it comes to high-volume restaurants, catering services, hospitals, and other busy institutions, reusable drinkware is a must! We take you through the different types of reusable plastic, so you can choose the perfect type of plastic drinkware for your needs.

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SAN Plastic Martini Glass
SAN Plastic Martini Glass

SAN (styrene acrylonitrile) plastic is a type of plastic that generally contains around 70% styrene and 30% acrylonitrile. It is often used in place of polystyrene because it provides higher strength, rigidity, and chemical resistance than polystyrene. Below are some of the characteristics of SAN plastic.

Pros
  • Break resistant
  • BPA free
  • Dishwasher safe (top rack only)
  • Microwave safe (reheating or warming only)
  • Good scratch resistance
  • Good glass-like clarity
  • Resistant to boiling water
Cons
  • Shows slight rim roughness after 100 dishwasher cycles
  • May discolor with age
Polycarbonate Champagne Glass
Polycarbonate Champagne Glass

Polycarbonate is a type of plastic which has a uniquely high impact strength and exceptional clarity. It is often used for applications such as bulletproof windows and break-resistant lenses. Below are some of the characteristics of polycarbonate plastic.

Pros
  • Virtually unbreakable
  • Dishwasher safe (top rack only)
  • Microwave safe (reheating or warming only)
  • Better scratch resistance than SAN
  • Better glass-like clarity than SAN
Cons
  • Contains BPA
  • Low scratch resistance
  • Prone to crazing
Tritan Plastic Glass
Tritan Plastic Glass

Tritan plastic has similar properties to polycarbonate, but has a chemical resistance which maintains its integrity in environments where others may degrade. Products made from Tritan can have the look of glass but with higher impact strength, shatter resistance, and sustainability. Tritan plastics have a wide range of temperature limits, with most being able to handle beverages up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit, some even up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Although Tritan plastic is considered one of the safest and highest quality plastics, it is also the most expensive. Below are some of the characteristics of Tritan plastic.

Pros
  • Virtually unbreakable
  • BPA free
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Microwave safe
  • Best scratch resistance
  • Best glass-like clarity
Cons
  • Most expensive option

Plastic Drinkware Uses

Plastic drinkware is a worthwhile investment for various types of establishments and events, from outdoor facilities to high-volume restaurants. Whether you need margarita glasses for an outside cabana or coffee mugs for a busy breakfast buffet, reusable plastic drinkware is a great solution for many occasions. Below we take you through other common uses for plastic drinkware.

Pink cocktail and a lime wedge in a plastic hurricane glass

Outdoor Uses

  • Poolside
  • Decks and patios
  • Outdoor eateries and bars
  • Pop-up restaurants

It is important to keep breakable glass away from pools and other outdoor areas that serve food and beverages. Glassware is typically not allowed near pools in order to prevent breakage in the water and possible injury. From margarita to martini glasses, a wide variety of plastic drinkware is available to keep all types of outdoor establishments safe and injury-free.

Old fashioned cocktail with an orange slice in a plastic glass

High-Volume Establishments

  • Health facilities
  • School cafeterias
  • Workplace cafes
  • Institutions

When it comes to high-volume establishments such as school cafeterias, hospitals, and nursing homes, reusable plastic drinkware is ideal. When dishwasher use and break-resistance is a must, tumblers and mugs that have extremely high impact resistance (like polycarbonate) are very beneficial.

Milkshake in a plastic jar on top of a red checkered napkin

Family-Friendly Establishments

  • Day cares
  • Restaurants
  • Amusement parks

Some reusable plastic beverageware is BPA free and virtually unbreakable. For this reason, many facilities that cater to families and children will opt for a health-aware option that holds up to wear and tear.

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