15th January 2025 – The Hong Kong Consumer Council has published a report on 18 popular travel mugs, pointing out significant discrepancies between the advertised and actual capacities, as well as potential safety risks. The findings showed that 14 of the tested mugs did not meet their claimed capacities, with five of these models falling short by more than 10%.
Among the products tested were well-known brands, including STANLEY, which performed well in thermal insulation but had design issues that could lead to dangerous spills. These mugs, priced between HK$80 and HK$425, are mostly made from stainless steel. While they all passed safety and durability tests for corrosion and staining, their capacity measurements revealed inconsistencies. Brands like MUJI and DECATHLON were also found to have discrepancies in their product labelling.
In thermal insulation tests, only two mugs kept their contents above 60°C after six hours. STANLEY and NOC stood out in this category, while several plastic mugs failed to retain heat, with temperatures dropping to as low as 26.3°C.
The STANLEY mug, despite its strong thermal performance, was flagged for being prone to tipping over due to its tall, narrow base and heavy handle. This design flaw could lead to hot liquids spilling, posing a burn risk. The Consumer Council has called for manufacturers to improve the design to prevent spills and enhance leak-proofing.
The report also pointed to usability issues, particularly with mugs that included drinking straws. Many of these models clogged easily when used with beverages containing toppings, making them less convenient for consumers.
Although all the mugs met safety standards, the report noted that some had narrow openings, which made cleaning difficult. This could lead to bacteria growth, especially in the silicone gaskets. The Council recommended regular cleaning to ensure hygiene.
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