Single Wall vs Double Wall Cups Which One Do You Need

Beverage-related businesses need to be very specific when it comes to the selection of their serving cups. They have to choose the right option between single-wall paper cups and double-wall paper cups. This decision can be a little tricky. The cups you select will not only impact the overall presentation, but also ensure temperature management. Single- and double-wall coffee cups differ in their characteristics. Such as:

• Structure and design
• Heat insulation
• Cost effectiveness
• Weight and Strength
• Environmental impact
• Branding
• Storage and handling

Whether you are starting a business where you have to decide the correct type and materials for walled paper cups, or your current business has complaints like burning fingers from a hot cup, softening, and leaking. The following is a comparison of single- and double-wall cups that helps you customize and select the paper cup that meets your needs.

What Are Single-wall Paper Cups?

Single-wall paper cups are made from one layer of main paperboard formed into the cup body. The paperboard is coated with inner linings like PLA or PE to hold beverages and prevent leakage. Their lightweight nature and cost-effectiveness make them a go-to option for events and startups. These cups come in different sizes and styles. They are usually suitable for:

• Soft or cold drinks
• Ice-creams
• Iced-coffees
• Espresso shots
• Hot beverages with paper sleeves

What Are Double-wall Paper Cups?

A double-wall paper cup contains an extra layer of paperboard. The outer layer is usually printed and also customizable. There’s a gap between the inner and outer layers that acts as a heat insulator and makes it easy to hold hot or cold beverages. Customized double-wall paper cups appear more premium and sturdy compared to single-wall cups. Double-wall cups are best for:

• Takeaway hot beverages without sleeves
• Coffee or tea
• Premium packaging
• Hot chocolate

Construction

The structure and body of a paper cup can only be maintained if you have chosen and invested in the right material. With us, you can customize material dimensions for paper cups. The best option is kraft paper, which is a food-grade paperboard, due to its durability and rigidity.

Types of Food-Grade Paper

Food-grade paperboard is a processed and safe material that can be further customized according to your demands.

Bleached Paperboard

The base of this material is fully virgin wood fibers that are bleached to give a smooth surface for printing. Bleached paperboard is the best option for vibrant and clear artwork. It is usually preferred by brands that desire a premium and luxury look. It is suitable for branded double-wall paper cups.

Virgin Paperboard 

It is unbleached or recycled wood pulp, which gives a brown and rustic color. It is an organic option for eco-conscious brands. Its structure is highly rigid.

Inner linings for Paper Cups

Coatings are added to the paper surface to make paper cups leak-proof and heat-resistant.

PLA

Polylactic acid is a plant-based coating derived from natural resources like corn and sugarcane. It is commercially biodegradable, which makes it a bit costly. It offers high heat resistance.

PE

Polyethylene is a petroleum-based coating largely used by industries. It is a thin layer applied on the inner surface of paper cups, preventing liquid penetration. It can be used in double-wall paper cups for coffee. However, it can not be recycled and requires a special procedure to remove the inner lining.

Aqueous Coating

Aqueous coatings contain water-based polymers dispersed onto paper cups. They are recyclable and can be used for single-wall hot paper cups.

You can personalize the paper weight and thickness according to your brand. For instance:

For single-wall cups

• Paper weight: 130 GSM and above
• Thickness: approx. 0.30 mm to 0.40 mm
• Inner lining: PLA, PE, water-based coatings

For double-wall cups

• Paper weight: 250 GSM to 350 GSM
• Thickness: approx. 0.60 mm to 0.80mm
• Inner lining: PLA, PE, aqueous coatings

Performance: Single-wall vs. Double-wall Cups

Single wall cups are suitable for everyday use. They act differently with hot and cold beverages. They have poor thermal insulation, which makes the outer surface hot at 45- 60 °C with a drink of approx. 85 °C. They require extra paper sleeves or a cup for holding comfortably. When filled with cold drinks, it starts sweating quickly, softening the single layer and leaving paper cups soggy. On the other hand, paper cups with an extra outer layer slow the heat transfer as they have better heat retention. The usual temperature on the outer surface goes from 30- 40 °C, with a beverage at 85 °C. Hence, they eliminate the use of a paper sleeve.

Cost Analysis: Single vs. Double-wall Cups

The overall cost factor depends largely on how paper cups are manufactured. The unit price for double-wall cups appears higher because they use more material as compared to single-wall cups. They reduce paper sleeve consumption as they are two-layered. Whereas, single-wall paper cups have a lower unit cost, making them an economical option for large operations, the prices can vary if double cups or paper sleeves are used. If both cups are manufactured with the same sizes and finishes,double-wall cups would be expensive. You can see the table below and understand the basic difference:

Conclusion

We cannot give you an abstract idea of which one is the best option for your brand, as it largely depends on what you use it to serve. In comparison to single-wall cups vs double-wall cups, both are useful for different applications and have their own benefits. You can order either of the two cups from Custom Greaseproof Paper. Before ordering, give us a call so that our manufacturing team can guide you through all the specifications you need so that you can choose the best option. Fill out a quick quote or contact us now for bulk orders with free delivery!