If you own a bubble tea shop, choosing the right disposable cup isn’t just about looks—it’s about drink quality, customer experience, and meeting sustainability goals. Here’s a guide to help you decide between paper cups, PET cups, and PP cups, and explore eco-friendly options that keep your brand ahead.
1. Paper Cups – Best for Hot and Cold Drinks (with Double Coating)
Paper cups are versatile and can be used for both hot and cold bubble tea when made with double PE coating, double water-based coating, or double PLA coating.
- Pros:
- Good heat insulation for hot drinks
- Printable for high brand visibility
- Coating options:
- Water-based coating (plastic-free, recyclable)
- PLA coating (plant-based, compostable)
- PE coating (cost-effective and leak-resistant)
- Suitable for iced drinks without softening (with double coating)
- Cons:
- Not transparent—customers can’t see pearls or drink layers
- Single-coated paper cups may soften with ice over time
Best for: Hot milk tea, iced bubble tea, smoothies, seasonal drinks
2. PET Cups – Crystal-Clear for Cold Drinks
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) cups are known for their exceptional clarity and sturdy feel.
- Pros:
- High transparency—perfect for showcasing pearls, jelly, and colorful drink
- Smooth rim and premium presentation
- Recyclable in many regions
- Cons:
- Not suitable for hot drinks (can warp)
- Higher cost compared to PP
Best for: Cold fruit tea, layered drinks, smoothies, specialty cold beverages
3. PP Cups – Affordable & Versatile
PP (Polypropylene) cups are a budget-friendly option for both cold and warm drinks.
- Pros:
- More affordable than PET
- Light yet flexible
- Heat-resistant up to around 100°C
- Cons:
- Less transparent than PET
- May not look as premium for layered drinks
Best for: Daily iced milk tea, takeaway drinks, high-volume orders
4. Eco-Friendly & Compostable Cup Options
For bubble tea shops looking to meet plastic reduction regulations and sustainability goals, here are greener alternatives:
- Water-Based Coating Paper Cups: Plastic-free lining, recyclable, industrially compostable.
- PLA Coating Paper Cups: Plant-based lining, fully compostable in industrial facilities.
- CPLA Lids & Straws: Compostable, heat-resistant, plant-based.
- Bagasse Fiber Cups & Lids: Made from sugarcane waste, 100% biodegradable.
- RPET Cups: Made from recycled PET, recyclable again after use.
5. How to Choose the Right Cup for Your Shop
- Drink Temperature:
Hot → Paper cups (single or double coating)
Cold & Premium Presentation → PET cups
Cold & Budget-Friendly → PP cups or double-coated paper cups - Transparency:
Want to showcase toppings and colors? Choose PET or clear PP. - Sustainability Goals:
Opt for water-based coating paper cups, PLA cups, or RPET cups. - Local Regulations:
Some regions ban plastic linings or require compostable certifications—check before ordering. - Brand Image:
Printed paper cups or custom-printed PET cups can enhance your shop’s identity.
Choosing the right cup impacts drink quality, customer experience, brand perception, and environmental compliance.
A smart strategy? Use double-coated paper cups for hot and cold drinks, PET cups for premium cold beverages, and eco-friendly alternatives to align with sustainability trends.
