Can You Microwave Starbucks Cups?

Sometimes all you want is to reheat your coffee because it has gotten cold after sitting too long. But is it recommended to microwave Starbucks cups?

As most coffee connoisseurs know, Starbucks offers many beverage options on the seasonal and regular menu. Each option often comes in a different type of cup built with superior functionality in mind, to accommodate the different Starbucks drink sizes. 

But not every reusable or takeout cup is safe to microwave. Starbucks plastic cups, paper cups, glass bottles, and tumblers aren’t safe to reheat. The ceramic mug is their only microwavable option. 

Are Starbucks Cups Microwave Safe?

Successfully microwaving your Starbucks drink in its original cup depends on its materials. Unfortunately, not every Starbucks cup reacts the same, and most takeout cups aren’t safe to microwave.

Starbucks paper cups are made with adhesive glue which bonds the pieces together. Unfortunately, they also have a plastic lining and wax inside. When exposed to high heat levels, it may cause chemicals to leak into your beverage.

Microwaves heat water molecules in liquids using friction to increase the temperature. So, your drink will heat up; however, your cup may fall apart.

Considering paper cups don’t withstand microwaving very well, reheating them will only lead to negative results. 

Can You Reheat Reusable Starbucks Cups?

Starbucks sells travel and reusable coffee cups, which allows you to enjoy a small discount at any store when you get a refill. These cups and mugs are made from ceramic or plastic, making them more microwave-friendly.

However, you should check for a microwave-safe label before putting it in a microwave.

Even some Starbucks cups that seem microwave-safe based on their material are unsafe for other reasons. For example, if your Starbucks cup has metallic paint or a rubber gasket, you shouldn’t use it in a microwave.

However, it’s challenging to figure this out by just looking at a cup. So look for a label and avoid the microwave if it is missing one.

To reheat your Starbucks beverage, you can transfer it to a ceramic mug and microwave it for thirty seconds. And then, if you wish, pour the reheated drink back into your Starbucks cup.

Also, you can reheat your drink the old-fashioned way, on your stovetop. Pour your Starbucks beverage into a saucepan and reheat it on medium heat. You may realize that the stovetop option preserves the taste of your coffee, so this method is worth the extra effort. 

Final Thoughts

Unfortunately, the standard Starbucks paper cups should not be put in the microwave. The high temperatures produced by microwaving can warp, melt, or damage the cup’s lining and adhesive glue used to bond the cup together.

Paper cups often have a thin plastic lining, which can’t withstand extreme temperatures. So, the quality of the microwaved coffee isn’t guaranteed because the toxic chemicals from the cup might contaminate it.

Still, if you want to reheat your Starbucks beverage, transfer it from a paper cup to a microwave-friendly cup or mug. Then it’ll be safe to re-heat it.

Alternatively, consider buying a reusable Starbucks mug if you frequently need to reheat your beverage, and be sure to check for a microwave-friendly label before buying. Are you curious to know if Starbucks cups can be recycled? Click here to read more in our latest article.

Be sure to also check out our recommendations for the best Starbucks flavors to brew at home.