CyanSunMaterials
Which Coating for Hot Drinks?
For hot drinks the coating has to do two jobs: stop liquid reaching the paper and survive the temperature. PE is the default; water-based is the PFAS-free option; PLA is for cold.
Comparison
| Coating | Hot drinks | Recyclability | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| PE | Excellent | Limited | Low |
| Water-based | Good | Better | Medium |
| PLA | Not above ~60°C | Compost only | High |
PE is the safest for 90°C coffee and the cheapest. Water-based coatings have improved and are the usual choice when a buyer wants PFAS-free and better recyclability.
What to test
Fill with the real drink at the real temperature, hold for 30–60 minutes, and check the seam and base. A 10-minute test misses slow wicking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is water-based coating heat resistant?
For most hot drinks yes, but test at your serving temperature.
Can PLA handle hot coffee?
Not reliably above 60°C; it softens and can deform.
Which is cheapest?
PE, usually by 5–15% over water-based.
Need the numbers for your own cup?
Open the cup size calculator →