How do you test the quality of your paper cups?
To ensure that your paper cups perform their function properly, it's essential to guarantee their quality. In this article, we'll explore various methods of testing the quality of your paper cups to ensure they live up to your expectations.
Check for leaks
One of the essential characteristics of a good paper cup is its watertightness. To check this, pour a small amount of hot liquid (such as coffee or tea) into the cup. Watch for leaks or for the cup to go limp. A quality cup should withstand heat and liquid for a reasonable period without deteriorating. Watertightness is guaranteed by a number of different processes, depending on the type of cup. Most of our cups are coated on the inside with a thin layer of PE (a plastic derivative) to make the cardboard waterproof. You can find them in the "PE coating". This is also the case for Kraft paper cups. The Plastic-free cups are made impermeable by a thin layer of aqueous solution!
Test heat resistance
Heat resistance is a crucial factor for paper cups for hot drinks. You can perform a simple test by filling the cup with hot liquid and holding it for a few minutes. The cup should remain intact without softening or deforming. Nur Carton Cups can handle liquids up to +120°C, and are even microwave-safe!
Check rigidity
Rigidity is important to ensure that the cup remains stable when filled with liquid. Press lightly on the sides of the cup with your fingers to see if it flexes or bends easily. A quality cup should retain its shape and rigidity. The latter is due in particular to the cup's grammage, i.e. the thickness of the cardboard used. The grammage of Covr cups varies between 185gsm/m2 to 300gsm/m2, guaranteeing excellent strength.
Take a look at the interior finish
The inside of the cup should be clean and free of any harmful coatings or unpleasant odors. Run your finger inside to check the quality of the finish. A smooth finish ensures that the taste of the beverage is not impaired. Our cups undergo regular factory checks to guarantee their quality.
Test moisture resistance
Moisture can weaken paper cups. To test moisture resistance, pour a little cold water into the cup. A quality paper cup should be able to withstand moisture for some time without deteriorating.
Evaluate print quality (if applicable)
If the paper cups are personalized with prints, make sure that the print is of high quality, well fixed, and does not rub off in liquids. High-quality printing contributes to the cup's aesthetic appeal. Take a look at our Cup Personalization tab, where we've received some very positive feedback from our customers!
Check compliance with standards
Make sure the paper cups you use comply with food safety and quality standards. Check for labels and certifications that guarantee compliance with regulations. Our cups are certified as suitable for food contact and display the obligatory recycling logos. Some also carry a mark attesting to their manufacture in the European Union.
In short, testing the quality of your paper cups is essential to ensure that they meet your needs, whether you're serving hot or cold drinks. By using the testing methods described above, you can ensure that your paper cups are fit for purpose, while providing a satisfactory experience for you or your customers. Attention to quality ensures that these versatile containers are used safely and effectively every day.