Whether you’re a daily commuter, an outdoor adventurer, or simply someone who enjoys a hot or cold beverage on the go, a reliable travel mug is an indispensable companion. Beyond convenience, choosing a reusable travel mug is a step towards sustainability, reducing reliance on disposable cups and saving money in the long run. From hiking trails to office desks, the right travel mug ensures your drink stays at the perfect temperature and minimizes spills. We’ve put a wide range of travel mugs to the test, and in this guide, we’ll delve into why the Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug stands out, especially for its innovative lid design, alongside other top performers in the market for 2024.
How We Test Travel Mugs
To provide you with dependable recommendations, we rigorously tested over a dozen popular travel mugs. Our testing process involved a minimum of one week of daily use for each mug, with some models being used by our team for several years, offering long-term insights. Our evaluations centered on crucial aspects including size, design, insulation effectiveness, and overall value. We meticulously documented our experiences, noting both the strengths and weaknesses of each travel mug.
Key Observations During Testing:
- Ease of Cleaning: We assessed the cleaning process for each mug, noting whether they were dishwasher-safe, the number of parts requiring cleaning, and the ease of manual cleaning, particularly for intricate lids.
- Durability: Testers evaluated durability through everyday use and simulated travel conditions. Leakproof mugs were tested in bags to gauge their resilience to movement and potential impacts. Long-term testers provided valuable insights into how mugs held up over years of use.
- Leakage Prevention: Mugs marketed as leakproof underwent a rigorous test: being shaken upside down over a sink to verify their claims.
Rating Criteria:
- Design (1-5 scale): Design scores reflected functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Mugs that were user-friendly, robust, and visually appealing received higher scores.
- Insulation: Using thermometers and stopwatches, we precisely measured the temperature retention capabilities of each mug, rating their insulation performance based on how well they maintained drink temperature over time.
- Value: The value rating compared each mug’s performance against its retail price. Mugs that delivered exceptional performance relative to their cost earned higher value scores.
Our Top Travel Mug Recommendations
After extensive testing, we’ve identified the best travel mugs across various categories. Here are our top picks, highlighting why each excels, with a special focus on the Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug as the best in class for lid design.
Best Overall:
SALE
Contigo West Loop Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug at Amazon $30 $22
Best Lid:
Stanley Classic Travel Mug at Amazon $34
Best for Hot or Cold:
SALE
Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug at Amazon $30 $22
Best High-Tech:
Ember Travel Mug 2 at Amazon $298
Best Budget:
Copco Acadia Travel Mug at Amazon $10
Best With Straw:
SALE
Bubba Envy Insulated Tumbler at Amazon $18 $12
Best Handled:
Thermos Stainless King Travel Mug at Amazon $25
Best Design:
S’well Traveler Mug at Amazon $35
Best for Easy Cleaning:
YETI Rambler 20 oz Tumbler at Amazon $35
Best Large Capacity:
Bubba Classic Insulated Desk Mug at Amazon $15
Best Overall
Contigo West Loop Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug
PHOTO: Amazon
$30 $22 at Amazon $23 at Target $27 at Wayfair
What We Like:
- Reliable autolock and spill-proof lid
- One-handed operation for locking and unlocking
- Exceptional hot and cold drink retention
What We Don’t Like:
- Might be slightly wide for smaller hands
- Plastic lid may be susceptible to damage
The Contigo West Loop stands out as our top overall pick, primarily due to its exceptional leak-proof design and impressive insulation. If you prioritize a travel mug that keeps coffee hot for hours and prevents spills, the Contigo is an excellent choice. Its “Autoseal” lid sets it apart; unlike sliding lids prone to leaks, the Contigo features a push-button mechanism that creates a vacuum seal when closed and opens only when you press the button to drink. This innovative design allows for true one-handed operation and bag-friendly portability without leaks.
Beyond hot beverages, this vacuum-insulated stainless steel mug excels at keeping drinks cold for up to 18 hours, depending on the size (12- or 20-ounce options available). With a variety of colors to choose from, personalizing your mug is easy.
Cleaning can be a minor challenge, as the Contigo has specific hand-washing instructions for the body, although the lid is dishwasher-safe. The complexity is a trade-off for its superior leak-proof and insulation performance.
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 10, 16, 20, or 24 ounces | Dimensions: 3 x 9 inches (20-ounce model)
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Tamara Staples
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
Best Lid
Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug
PHOTO: Amazon
$34 at Amazon $23 at Walmart View on Golfgalaxy.com
What We Like:
- Exceptional durability, built to last
- Truly leakproof performance
- Ideal for commuters and travel
What We Don’t Like:
- Lid design can be challenging to clean thoroughly
- Slight plastic odor initially
The Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug earns our top recommendation for the best lid, and for good reason. Stanley, a brand with over a century of heritage in durable drinkware, patented the all-steel vacuum flask in 1913. This legacy of robust technology is evident in the design and performance of the Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug. Available in 12, 16, and 20-ounce sizes and five colors, this mug is built for longevity and reliability.
In our hands-on testing of the 16-ounce model, the Stanley mug lived up to its claims of superior temperature retention. Hot coffee remained pleasantly warm for up to seven hours, while cold coffee stayed chilled for ten hours without ice. Remarkably, ice water stayed refreshingly cold for over 30 hours. Temperature retention may vary slightly with mug size.
The standout feature is undoubtedly the trigger-action lid. We were thoroughly impressed by its leakproof capability. Even when vigorously shaken upside down, not a drop escaped. This level of leak prevention, combined with the convenience of the trigger-action mechanism, is rare. It’s perfect for tossing into a bag or backpack without worry, making it an excellent choice for hikers, commuters, and anyone on the move.
Durability is another key strength. Having used this mug frequently over four years, it shows no signs of wear and tear. Stanley backs this up with a lifetime guarantee, confidently stating its ability to withstand extreme conditions, from 4,000-foot drops to -70 degrees Fahrenheit windchill. Adding to its appeal, the Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug offers exceptional value for its price, making it a top contender in the market for those seeking a durable, leakproof, and high-performing travel mug.
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 12, 16, or 20 ounces | Dimensions: 2.9 x 8.9 inches (16-ounce model)
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
Best for Hot or Cold
Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug
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PHOTO: Amazon
$30 $22 at Amazon View on Zojirushi.com
What We Like:
- Comfortable and easy to hold
- Cupholder compatible
- Superb heat retention
- Leak-preventing locking mechanism
What We Don’t Like:
- Hand wash recommended, with multiple parts to clean
Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug Review
While many travel mugs perform well for either hot or cold drinks, the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug excels at maintaining temperature for both. It consistently keeps drinks hot or cold for at least six hours, and our tests exceeded even the manufacturer’s claims, with coffee staying warm for nearly 12 hours.
Available in 12 and 16-ounce sizes, the Zojirushi mug is also praised for its user-friendly design. The flip-top cap is not only leakproof but also protects the drinking spout, ensuring hygiene. A lock on the cap adds extra security against accidental opening in bags.
Cleaning requires a bit more effort compared to simpler mugs, and hand washing is recommended. Several components need thorough cleaning to prevent staining and mildew. However, the plastic sipping piece and rubber gasket on the lid are easily removable for separate cleaning.
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 12 or 16 ounces | Dimensions: 2.625 x 2.875 x 9.125 inches (16-ounce model)
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
Best High-Tech
Ember Travel Mug 2
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PHOTO: Amazon
$298 at Amazon $249 at Walmart View on Ember.com
What We Like:
- Touchscreen temperature control
- Battery life up to three hours
- 360-degree leak-proof lid
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited 12-ounce capacity
- Premium price point
Ember Travel Mug² Review
The Ember Travel Mug 2 distinguishes itself with smart technology and a sleek design. While it effectively maintains drink temperature like other top mugs, its high-tech features set it apart. This updated version is lighter and more streamlined than the original, replacing a manual dial with a touch-sensitive control panel.
This “smart” mug allows you to precisely control and set your preferred drink temperature using the touch panel or via the Ember app on your smartphone. The app acts as a temperature gauge, notifying you when your drink reaches the ideal temperature, preventing accidental burns.
The Ember Travel Mug 2’s lid is exceptionally designed—push-to-open, leak-proof, and allows sipping from any side. Its ergonomic shape, wider at the top and with a matte finish, ensures a comfortable and secure grip. The 12-ounce capacity may be limiting for some, and the price is considerably higher, but it reflects the advanced technology and features offered.
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 12 ounces | Dimensions: 3.14 x 7.9 inches
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
Best Budget
Copco Acadia Travel Mug
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PHOTO: Amazon
What We Like:
- Microwave and dishwasher safe
- Colorful, comfortable grip
- Cupholder compatible
- Stackable for easy storage
What We Don’t Like:
- Susceptible to staining
- Lid opening is not closable
For an affordable and functional travel mug, the Copco Acadia Travel Mug is hard to beat. This 16-ounce mug is suitable for both hot and cold beverages, including iced coffee and cold brew, all at a budget-friendly price. Its double-wall construction provides better temperature retention than a standard non-insulated cup, though it’s not designed for all-day insulation like stainless steel mugs. Hot coffee stays warm for about two hours before becoming lukewarm. A key advantage is its microwave-safe design for easy reheating.
Cleaning is straightforward, as it’s dishwasher-safe and features a wide lid opening for easy hand washing. However, the lid lacks a closure, making it unsuitable for placing in a bag. The interior can stain over time, though our four-year-old test mug remains functional despite coffee stains.
Available with various colored bands, these mugs are easily personalized and the bands act as comfortable grips and heat protectors. While basic, the Copco Acadia is a reliable and budget-conscious choice.
Material: BPA-free plastic | Capacity: 16 ounces | Dimensions: 3.66 x 6.78 inches
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
Best With Straw
Bubba Envy Insulated Tumbler
PHOTO: Amazon
$18 $12 at Amazon $14 at Walmart
What We Like:
- Condensation-free exterior
- Tightly sealing lid
- Cupholder friendly
- Suitable for hot and cold drinks
What We Don’t Like:
- Lid hole is not closable
- Hand wash only
Bubba Envy Insulated Stainless Steel Tumbler with Straw Review
For those who prefer sipping from a straw, the Bubba Envy Insulated Tumbler is an excellent travel companion, particularly for iced coffee. It fits comfortably in most cupholders and keeps drinks cold for up to 12 hours. It includes a removable plastic straw and a Tritan lid, offering versatility in how you drink. A minor drawback is the lack of a lid closure for the straw hole, preventing complete sealing.
Constructed from stainless steel, the Bubba Envy is resistant to stains and odors, ensuring your drinks taste fresh. It’s backed by a lifetime guarantee, highlighting its durability. While large and handle-free, the tumbler’s contoured design provides a surprisingly comfortable grip.
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18, 24, or 32 ounces | Dimensions: 3.62 x 3.93 x 10.54 inches (24-ounce model)
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan
Best Handled
Thermos Stainless King Travel Mug
PHOTO: Amazon
$25 at Amazon View on Walmart $28 at Target
What We Like:
- Long-lasting hot and cold temperature retention
- Comfortable handle
- Secure lid seal
What We Don’t Like:
- Lid can be difficult to clean
- May not fit in all car cupholders
Thermos Stainless King Travel Mug Review
If you prefer a handle on your travel mug, the Thermos Stainless King Travel Mug is an excellent choice. While handles are less essential with vacuum insulation, many users still appreciate the traditional feel.
Available in five colors, this 16-ounce mug keeps drinks hot for up to five hours and cold for up to nine, thanks to its double-wall stainless steel construction. The “DrinkLock” lid seal is activated by a lever, preventing spills effectively. In our tests, it maintained coffee temperature well, even on cold days. Hand washing is recommended for this mug.
A unique feature for tea lovers is the built-in tea hook, compatible with most tea infusers and designed for easy removal. It also comes with a five-year limited warranty.
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 16 ounces | Dimensions: 3.3 x 4.9 x 7.8 inches
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan
Best Design
S’well Traveler Mug
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PHOTO: Amazon
$35 at Amazon $30 at Sur La Table View on Swell.com
What We Like:
- Available in multiple sizes and colors
- Excellent temperature retention
- Highly durable construction
What We Don’t Like:
- Price can vary, sometimes expensive
- Lid design less convenient for commuters
The S’well Traveler Mug is recognized for its exceptional design and performance. S’well’s signature triple-wall technology ensures superior temperature retention, keeping coffee hot for 12 hours and iced coffee cold for 30 hours in our tests.
This mug excels in design, being cupholder-friendly and available in 17 colors and three sizes (12, 16, and 20 ounces). It’s completely leakproof, suitable for carrying in bags. However, the lid requires two hands to unscrew, which may be less convenient for on-the-go sipping. Hand washing is recommended, using dish soap and hot water or a bottle brush.
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 12, 16, or 20 ounces | Dimensions: 3.3 x 9.3 inches
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
Best for Easy Cleaning
YETI Rambler 20 oz Tumbler
PHOTO: Amazon
$35 at Amazon View on Westmarine.com View on Publiclands.com
What We Like:
- Dishwasher safe
- Effortless magnetic sliding lid
- Durable and robust
- Wide range of color options
What We Don’t Like:
- Not leakproof
The YETI Rambler 20 oz Tumbler is designed for easy cleaning and convenience. Available in 10, 20, and 30-ounce sizes, its wide opening and simple design allow for easy hand cleaning with a sponge. It is also dishwasher safe, adding to its ease of maintenance.
Having been tested for over two years, the Rambler proves its durability. Its cupholder-friendly design and one-handed sippable lid, featuring Yeti’s Magslider toggle, make it ideal for car use. While not leakproof, it effectively retains temperature, keeping drinks hot for about 10 hours and cold for nearly 20. Offered in over 10 colors, the Rambler combines functionality with style.
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 10, 20, or 30 ounces | Dimensions: 3.5 x 6.6 inches
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
Best Large Capacity
Bubba Classic Insulated Desk Mug
PHOTO: Amazon
What We Like:
- Condensation-free exterior
- Affordable price
- Lightweight for its size
What We Don’t Like:
- Too large for cupholders
- Non-closable lid opening
For maximum capacity, the Bubba Classic Insulated Desk Mug holds a substantial 52 ounces, ideal for long days at the pool, beach, or office. It’s perfect for those who prefer fewer refills. Its size makes it less suitable for car cupholders, making it better for stationary use.
While designed for heat retention, it performs better with cold drinks. Hot coffee becomes lukewarm within three hours when filled more than halfway. However, it excels with cold drinks, keeping coffee cold for up to 12 hours in our tests. The wide lid opening can make drinking prone to spills.
The Bubba 52-Ounce Desk Mug is exceptionally durable and can withstand drops and rough handling. Its wide, comfortable handle adds to its sturdy feel.
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 34 or 52 ounces | Dimensions: 7 x 10 inches
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
Final Verdict
For overall excellence, the Contigo Autoseal West Loop remains our top recommendation due to its sleek design, durability, and user-friendly, button-activated lid. As a close second, the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug offers similar quality and performance, particularly standing out with its superior lid design. Both are excellent choices, depending on your specific preferences. If lid design and ruggedness are top priorities, the Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug is an unbeatable choice.
Other Options We Tested
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
What to Consider When Choosing a Travel Mug
Lid Style
The lid is a critical component of any travel mug, influencing ease of use and spill prevention. Various lid styles cater to different needs:
- Flip Lids: Simple and often one-hand operable, but may not be fully leakproof.
- Thumb-Sliding Lids: Easy to slide open and closed, generally spill-resistant but not always leakproof.
- Push-Button Lids: Like the Contigo Autoseal, these offer excellent leak protection and one-handed operation.
- Twist Lids: Highly secure and leakproof, but usually require two hands to open.
- Straw Lids: Ideal for cold drinks, but typically not spillproof.
Consider your primary use case when choosing a lid style. For maximum spill prevention and durability, twist or push-button lids are preferable. For ease of access while commuting, one-hand operable lids are beneficial.
Temperature Retention
Maintaining drink temperature is a primary function of a travel mug. Vacuum-insulated mugs, typically made of stainless steel, offer the best insulation. Plastic and silicone mugs offer less effective temperature retention. Consider whether you primarily drink hot or cold beverages, as some mugs are optimized for one or the other.
Manufacturers often specify temperature retention times, but these are often based on pre-heated or pre-cooled mugs. Stanley brand’s Graham Nearn specifies that “hot” means liquid between 140 to 203 degrees Fahrenheit, and “cold” is between 39 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Size
Travel mugs range widely in size, from small, coffee-mug-sized options to large, day-long capacity mugs. The average is around 16 ounces. Larger mugs are great for fewer refills but may not fit in cupholders or be microwave-safe. Choose a size that fits your drinking habits and usage scenarios.
Material
Material affects a mug’s aesthetics, price, durability, cleaning, and temperature retention. Common materials include:
- Stainless Steel: Durable, excellent insulation, but can sometimes affect coffee flavor and is not microwave-safe. “18/8 stainless steel” (18% chromium, 8% nickel) is food-grade, corrosion-resistant, and durable.
- Plastic: Affordable, microwave-safe, but less effective insulation, prone to staining and odor retention.
- Glass: Clean taste, microwave-safe, but less durable and often not as good for insulation.
- Ceramic: Similar to glass in taste and microwave-safety, but can be fragile.
- Silicone & Bamboo: Often used for grips or accents, not primary mug materials due to insulation limitations.
Choose based on your priorities: budget and microwave use favor plastic; durability and insulation favor stainless steel.
Leak-Proof vs. Spill-Proof
Understand the difference:
- Leak-Proof: Prevents any liquid from escaping, even when inverted or shaken – essential for bags. The Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug and Contigo West Loop are examples.
- Spill-Proof: Prevents major spills but may leak if tipped or stored in a bag.
For commuters and travelers, leak-proof is crucial. For desk use, spill-proof might suffice. Always check reviews to verify leak-proof claims.
Design
Consider both shape and aesthetics. Handle or handle-free? Slim for bags or wider for stability? Color and pattern choices reflect personal style. Design impacts both functionality and personal expression.
Price
Travel mugs are generally affordable, especially compared to daily coffee shop costs. Electric mugs are pricier. Plastic mugs are typically the most budget-friendly, followed by stainless steel, glass, and ceramic. Size also influences price, with larger mugs costing more.
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
Types of Travel Mugs
Coffee Mug Style
Resemble regular coffee mugs with handles but offer better insulation. Smaller capacity (around 12 oz), comfortable to hold. Not leak-proof or cupholder-friendly due to handles.
Portable Coffee Makers
Combine brewing and drinking in one device, like travel French presses or pour-over mugs. Ideal for travelers and campers.
Tumblers
The most common type, handle-free, tapered base for cupholders. Versatile for hot and cold drinks, often with straw lids, popular for iced coffee. The YETI Rambler and Bubba Envy are examples.
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas
FAQs
What is a vacuum-insulated mug?
Vacuum-insulated mugs have double walls with a vacuum space in between, reducing heat transfer and improving temperature retention. “Double-walled” and “vacuum-insulated” often describe the same construction.
How can I maximize temperature retention?
Preheat your mug with hot water for hot drinks, or pre-cool with cold water for cold drinks. This primes the mug material for better temperature maintenance.
How do I clean my travel mug?
Check if dishwasher-safe. If not, hand wash with dish soap and a sponge or soft brush. Avoid steel wool and harsh cleaners on stainless steel. For thorough cleaning, soak in a vinegar and baking soda solution.
Can I put milk in a travel mug?
Avoid storing milk or cream in travel mugs for extended periods, especially at warm temperatures, as bacteria can grow. Clean mugs thoroughly after each use, particularly after dairy.
About Our Testers
Why Trust The Spruce Eats?
This guide was written by Derek Rose, a coffee and tea expert for The Spruce Eats. He has extensive experience researching and testing coffee products, and has personally tested many mugs on this list, including the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug, Copco Acadia Travel Mug, S’Well Traveler Mug, and Bubba 52-Ounce Insulated Desk Mug.
Sources
Graham Nearn, Senior VP of Product Creation & Design at PMI Worldwide (Stanley brand), interviewed for insights on travel mug technology and materials.
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