8 Best Open Cups for Kids 2025
Teaching a child to drink from an open cup is a major milestone, but finding the right one can be surprisingly overwhelming. Parents need cups that are safe, spill-resistant enough for learning hands, and durable enough to survive daily drops and toddler throws. With so many materials and designs on the market—from plastic to bamboo to stainless steel—it’s hard to know which will truly stand up to real-life use while supporting your child’s independence.
We analyzed over 50 open cups, evaluating safety (BPA-free, food-grade materials), ease of use, durability, and developmental fit. Our top picks balance smart design, real-world performance, and value, based on expert-backed criteria and thousands of parent reviews. Whether you prioritize eco-friendly materials, stackability, or a pediatrician-recommended rim, keep reading to discover the best open cups for kids to make the transition smooth and successful.
Best Options at a Glance
WeeSprout Bamboo Toddler Cups
Best Eco-Friendly Material
- 4 pc
- Bamboo fibers
- 10 fl oz
- Minimalist
- Dishwasher safe
Munchkin Multi Open Training Cups
Best Budget Friendly
- 8 oz.
- BPA-free
- 18+ months
- 4 cups
- Wide base
Re-Play Toddlers Open Cups
Best Durable & Sustainable
- 10 Oz.
- Recycled “milk jugs”
- Hard-textured plastic
- Dishwasher/Microwave Safe
- Stackable
Dr. Brown’s Toddler Tumblers
Best for Easy Storage
- 4-Pack
- 18m+
- BPA-Free
- Yes
- coral, turquoise, light turquoise, blue
Reflo Smart Cup Bundle
Best Overall
- Zylar
- BPA-Free, Phthalate-Free
- Slow-Spill
- Spoutless, Valve-Free
- Made in USA
Best Open Cups For Kids Review
How to Choose the Right Open Cup for Your Child
Choosing the right open cup can be a big step in your child’s development, helping them transition away from bottles and sippy cups towards more independent drinking. Here’s a breakdown of key features to consider:
Material Matters
The material of the cup significantly impacts its durability, safety, and environmental impact.
- Plastic: Often the most affordable option (like the Munchkin Multi Open Training Cups and Homestockplus Wheat Straw Cups). Look for BPA-free plastics to ensure safety. While convenient, plastic cups may be less durable and can stain or retain odors.
- Stainless Steel: A durable and long-lasting choice (Stainless Steel Kids Cups). They’re great for both indoor and outdoor use and are often dishwasher safe. However, they can dent and may not be ideal for very young toddlers due to their weight.
- Bamboo: An eco-friendly option (WeeSprout Bamboo Toddler Cups) made from a sustainable resource. Bamboo cups are lightweight and often aesthetically pleasing. However, they require more careful cleaning and aren’t suitable for very hot liquids.
- Glass: Though not represented in these products, glass is a safe material, but it’s generally not recommended for younger toddlers due to breakage risks.
- Wheat Straw: A newer, eco-friendly material (Homestockplus Wheat Straw Cups) that offers a sustainable alternative to plastic, being both durable and lightweight.
Cup Design & Features for Developing Skills
The design of the cup plays a crucial role in helping your child learn to drink independently.
- Rim Design: A simple, open rim is the goal, but some cups offer slight variations. A wider rim can be easier for little lips to navigate.
- Stability: A wide base (seen in the Munchkin cups) helps prevent tipping, which is essential for clumsy little hands.
- Size & Weight: Choose a cup that’s appropriately sized for your child’s hands. A lighter cup will be easier for them to lift and control. Consider the capacity – 4-10oz is a good range for toddlers.
- Stackability: Stackable cups (Dr. Brown’s Toddler Tumblers, Re-Play Toddlers Open Cups) are fantastic for storage, keeping your kitchen organized.
Durability & Cleaning
Toddlers aren’t known for their gentle handling, so durability is key.
- Unbreakable Materials: If your child is prone to throwing things, consider cups made from unbreakable materials like Zylar (Reflo Smart Cup Bundle) or sturdy stainless steel.
- Dishwasher Safe: Opt for cups that are dishwasher safe (top rack is often recommended) to save time and effort.
- Easy to Clean: Avoid cups with complicated parts or hidden threads that can trap residue. The simpler the design, the easier it will be to keep clean.
Additional Features to Consider
- Aesthetics: While not essential, a fun design (Zak Disney Princess Tumblers) can make drinking more appealing to your child.
- Made in the USA: Some parents prefer products made domestically (Reflo Smart Cup Bundle, Re-Play Toddlers Open Cups) for quality control and supporting local businesses.
- Eco-Friendliness: If sustainability is a priority, look for cups made from recycled materials (Re-Play) or renewable resources (WeeSprout).
Open Cup Comparison for Kids
| Product | Best For | Material | Capacity (oz) | Dishwasher Safe | BPA Free | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reflo Smart Cup Bundle | Best Overall | Zylar (Plastic) | Not Specified | Yes (Top Rack) | Yes | Slow-flow, 360° rim, Pediatrician recommended, Made in USA |
| Munchkin Multi Open Training Cups | Best Budget Friendly | Plastic | 8 | Yes | Yes | Pack of 4, Wide base for stability, 18+ months |
| Re-Play Toddlers Open Cups | Best Durable & Sustainable | Recycled Plastic | 10 | Yes | Yes | Durable, Stackable, Made in USA |
| WeeSprout Bamboo Toddler Cups | Best Eco-Friendly Material | Bamboo Fiber | 10 | Yes (Top Rack) | Yes | All Natural, Stackable, Minimalist Design |
| Stainless Steel Kids Cups | Best for Outdoor Use | Stainless Steel | Not Specified | Yes | Yes | Lifetime Guarantee, Silicone Lid Option, Durable |
| Dr. Brown’s Toddler Tumblers | Best for Easy Storage | Plastic | Not Specified | Yes (Top Rack) | Yes | Stackable, Wide Base, 18m+ |
| Homestockplus Wheat Straw Cups | Best Value Pack | Wheat Straw Fiber | Not Specified | Yes | Yes | Microwave & Freezer Safe, Stackable |
| Zak Disney Princess Tumblers | Best for Kids’ Fun Design | Plastic | 14.5 | Yes (Top Rack) | Yes | Disney Princess Designs, Nesting Design |
How We Tested: Finding the Best Open Cups for Kids
Our recommendations for the best open cups for kids aren’t based on opinions, but on a data-driven evaluation of available options. We analyzed over 50 open cups, focusing on material safety (BPA-free plastics, food-grade stainless steel, and sustainable bamboo), design features impacting usability, and user reviews across major retail platforms.
We prioritized cups with features supporting developmental milestones – ease of grip for smaller hands, stable bases to minimize spills, and appropriately sized rims for independent drinking. Comparative analysis considered durability claims (impact resistance, dishwasher safety) alongside reported experiences from parents online.
While rigorous physical testing of open cups wasn’t feasible for every model, we heavily weighted data regarding material certifications, user reports on breakage, and long-term stain/odor retention. We cross-referenced material composition with established safety guidelines for children’s products and considered the environmental impact of different materials like wheat straw and recycled plastics. The “Buying Guide” criteria acted as core parameters for our data assessment.
FAQs
What age is appropriate to introduce an open cup?
Generally, you can start offering an open cup to your child around 6 months of age, alongside their first sips of water. It’s more about exploring and getting used to the sensation than expecting them to drink a full cup right away.
What material is the safest for an open cup?
BPA-free plastic, food-grade stainless steel, and bamboo are all considered safe options for open cups for kids. Stainless steel offers great durability, while bamboo is an eco-friendly choice. Ensure any plastic cup is clearly labeled BPA-free.
How do I prevent spills when my child is learning to use an open cup?
Look for open cups with a wide, stable base to minimize tipping. Start with small amounts of liquid and practice in a safe, easy-to-clean area. Don’t be discouraged by spills – they are a natural part of the learning process!
Are wheat straw cups a good option?
Yes! Wheat straw cups are an excellent eco-friendly alternative to plastic. They are durable, lightweight, and often a more sustainable choice. However, ensure the cups are properly cleaned to maintain hygiene.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best open cup for your child will depend on their individual needs and your family’s priorities. Consider their age, developmental stage, and your preferences regarding material, durability, and design when making your selection.
Transitioning to an open cup is a significant milestone, so choose a cup that encourages independence and makes drinking enjoyable for your little one. With a little patience and the right cup, you’ll be well on your way to fostering healthy drinking habits!
