Liquid Measuring Cups

Did you know that there’s a right way to use a traditional liquid measuring cup? Here’s how you should do it: Place the cup on a level surface and slowly pour in the liquid until it reaches the measurement marking, bending briefly to check it at eye level and adjusting as necessary. The surface of the liquid will curve downward slightly (this curve is called a meniscus). The trick for an accurate measurement is to line up the bottom of the curve with the desired marking.             

To assess the accuracy of each cup, we used a lab-grade scale to weigh water at six essential measurements—¼, ⅓, ½, ⅔, ¾, and 1 cup. We then poured the water into the cups and compared the water level to the measurement markings. We repeated this test with the ounce and milliliter markings on each cup. About half the models we tested were either spot-on or off by just a few drops. On the worst models, the 1-cup markings were off by a full tablespoon, enough to negatively affect a recipe.

The two innovative cups each had two sets of measurement markings, one outside, like usual, and another inside, positioned facing upward, so users don’t have to crouch to read the markings. One of the innovative cups wasn’t reliable; the markings on the outside of the cup were accurate, but the ones inside were not. Fortunately, the other innovative model’s two sets of markings were both accurate.

Next, we focused on how easy the measurements on the cups were to read. Clear glass and plastic models were easier to see through to gauge the level of the liquid than slightly opaque silicone models were. The type and style of measurement markings also varied. A few used tiny arrows or dashes, about ⅛ inch long, while others had lines nearly 1¼ inches long. We preferred longer, bolder lines, but any length or style was fine as long as it clearly corresponded to a boldly marked number. If lines were stacked too close on top of each other or weren’t labeled, it was hard to know which measurements they were marking. We also really appreciated that we could just look down into the innovative models with markings inside, no bending required.

With our accuracy and legibility tests complete, we focused on how convenient the cups were to use. Models with broad, round openings were easier to pour into, especially from a wide pan such as a 12-inch skillet. These roomier cups were also tidier to pour from. If the top measurement line was too close to the cup’s rim—¼ inch or less—liquid often sloshed or dribbled down the cup’s exterior as we poured it from the cup. We were better able to control the flow from cups that offered about 1 inch of clearance between the top measurement and the rim.

But clearance didn’t matter at all if the cup’s pour spout wasn’t well designed. One glass model’s pour spout was positioned slightly off-center, so we always made a mess when pouring (our backup copy had the same flaw). Flexible silicone models, which could be pinched to form spouts, were OK, but our favorites had firm, evenly centered spouts that neatly directed the flow of the liquid we were pouring.

When we emptied the cups, we discovered a trade-off to one of the innovative measuring cups with two sets of accurate markings. The secondary set of measurements was located on a ridge inside the cup that made it hard to cleanly scrape out ingredients such as buttermilk or olive oil. Some testers were annoyed by the extra work, but others were willing to trade that slight inconvenience for the ability to read the cup’s measurements without crouching.

Finally, we liked models that were comfortable to use. Some had sharp, thin, or small handles. One model without a handle got a little too hot when we filled it with hot water. The two stay-cool silicone cups and models with fairly long, wide handles were easiest to hold and made us feel most secure.

As a final test, we filled the cups with hot turmeric-spiked marinara (heating the cups in the microwave if they were microwave-safe) and let them sit for 3 hours. After several spins through the dishwasher and repeated hand-washing, one plastic measuring cup and the two silicone measuring cups were tinted or had light yellow rings.

Some measuring cups suffered more from the washing than the staining. Two plastic models became slightly scuffed, and another cracked. One model really disappointed us: Even though we used a gentle sponge, some of the markings wore away. Several cups emerged from testing looking like new, which bodes well for their long-term durability.

In the end, the Pyrex 1 Cup Measuring Cup was our favorite once again. In addition to being accurate, the measurement markings were bold and easy to read. The cup is spacious, so we didn’t worry about sloshing when we poured and we could quickly scrape out any remaining liquid with a spatula. The handle, though shorter than ideal, was comfortably wide and smooth. We also liked that the glass is sturdy, microwave-safe, and easy to clean. But we know that for many home cooks, crouching to view the Pyrex model’s measurement markings at eye level is uncomfortable. For that reason, we also recommend the OXO Good Grips 1 Cup Angled Measuring Cup, which has a secondary set of measurement markings inside that can be read from above. It stained slightly and was harder to scrape clean than our winner, but we love its lightweight construction, comfortable handle, and clever design. Whether you prefer a traditional cup that’s a cinch to clean or a lightweight model that’s convenient to read, our top picks guarantee accuracy in the kitchen.