Cold cup are a big part of the fast-food experience. They’re instantly recognizable and often used to deliver drinks like coffee, soda and lemonade on the go. But they can also leave a negative environmental impact when they end up as landfill trash or litter on streets and waterways.
And that’s why many chains are phasing out their single-use plastics and paper products in favor of reusable options like cold cups. But it turns out, there’s more than just a green reason to get excited about these new designs. In fact, the cups have reached Beanie Baby-level collectible status, with people scouring online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Poshmark for the latest releases and rarest designs. Some of the most popular ones sell out in seconds, with fans forming groups to track and coordinate their hunts.
Starbucks is doing its part to help, with a push for more sustainable packaging and drive-thru windows that allow customers to order ahead on their phones and pick up drinks in their own personal cups. The company is also testing out cup-washing stations to make it easier for customers to wash their own tumblers before returning them.
But even if all of this works out, there will still be a need for some sort of insulated vessel to hold iced drinks in hot weather. Enter these reusable cold cups, which are perfect for the summer and all your favorite sweet brews.
The insulated construction keeps drinks cold up to eight hours and holds heat for six. And the no-sweat, no-spill design means you can drink with one hand if necessary (think: car rides or walks). The best part? It’s crafted from post-consumer recycled plastic, meaning it helps the planet—and your wallet.
Another option that’s not only good for the environment but also stylish and functional is this color-changing reusable cup from Starbucks, which comes in two sizes: 12 ounces for cold drinks and 16 ounces for hot drinks. The cup is crafted from a durable and BPA-free material that’s easy to grip, and it comes with a removable straw and a lid that can be opened or closed in multiple positions. Plus, the cup is designed to fit in your favorite cup holders, so you can keep it in your car or office for on-the-go convenience.
The only downside, according to our experts, is that it doesn’t hold as much temperature as some of the others on this list. But that shouldn’t stop you from adding this cool, reusable cup to your collection. It’s a great choice for when you want to stay hydrated on the go and is an ideal companion for your next adventure..