Copper Mug Lining Options
Which Copper Mug is Right for You?
Copper mugs come with a variety of inner linings and with different blends of materials. At Urban Vintage LA, we only offer two options. Read below before you decide which one to purchase.
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UNLINED/Pure Copper Mugs
Why We Love Them
Unlined pure copper mugs boast the honor of being the most highly conductive of all copper mug versions. Made of 100% solid copper, with no inner lining, they keep your drinks arctic cold and transfer that cold crisp feeling to your hands and lips so splendidly. It’s no surprise that they caused sensation in the 1940s Los Angeles scene when the Moscow Mule was first created. There is simply no better conductor of temperature than pure copper. Period.
Why They Require Special Care
COPPER PATINA
Pure copper develops a rich patina when exposed to liquids and moisture in the air. In other words, it tarnishes. This is best avoided by washing and drying the mugs soon after use. But even then, some spots may develop here and there. While these spots can easily and quickly be removed, not everyone is willing to invest the time and effort. And, not everyone understands this characteristic of copper.
What You Should be Aware Of, But Not Worried About
Unlined Copper Mugs have gotten bad press over the past couple of years. If you're worried about using unlined copper mugs, don't be. Here are our reasons why.
Let's Recap
PROS
- Best suited for people who are willing to care for artisanal objects.
- They are the original Moscow mule mugs.
- They keep drinks way colder!
- They have lacquer on the outside, so they will remain bright & shiny.
- They are timeless copper vessels, used for thousands of years.
- With proper maintenance will last a lifetime.
CONS
- They should be washed and dried relatively soon after each use.
- Periodic tarnish removal may be required.
- Acidic drinks should not sit in them for extended periods.
- Higher price point than Made-in-China copper-plated stainless-steel mugs.
CHECK OUT OUR COPPER MUGS GIFT SET PURCHASE GUIDE
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Copper/Stainless-Steel Double-Walled Mugs
The Next Best Alternative to Unlined Pure Copper Mugs
Who These Mugs are Best Suited For
These lined double wall mugs are intended for those who appreciate the beauty of copper, but who might be a bit non-committal about maintenance. The stainless-steel inner wall does not require special care. However, it does not conduct temperature anywhere nearly as well as pure copper does, so drinks won’t feel as cold. The main reason to use copper vessels (besides their anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory properties) is conductivity.
However, they are just as beautiful as unlined pure copper mugs and they come with a protective lacquer on the outside (we never use chemical lacquers inside).
Let's Recap
PROS
- Minimal maintenance required.
- We offer the high-end version of the stainless-steel varieties - double walled!
- No problem leaving acidic drinks in the mug for extended periods.
- They have lacquer on the outer copper wall, so they will remain bright & shiny.
CONS
- Less conductivity than pure copper.
- Not the authentic Moscow Mule experience.
- While just as beautiful in appearance, you miss out on the key features of copper.