When shopping for tumblers, it's important to find high-quality containers that provide long-lasting insulation. This common feature lets you keep your favorite drinks at a consistent temperature for numerous hours, whether you're storing refreshing ice water or a cozy hot beverage, like coffee or tea.
The best insulated tumbler for your drinkware collection will depend on whether you're in the market for a single cup or wholesale tumblers intended for resale. While there are plenty of tumbler brands, most are not ideal for bulk purchases, nor do they sell customizable tumbler blanks. For that reason, if you're a tumbler crafter, you'll need to find a supplier that offers high-quality insulated cups that are customizable and come in bulk options.
In this guide, we explore some of the best insulated drinkware brands for both tumbler lovers and crafters. You will also learn how double-wall vacuum insulation works, why stainless steel matters, and which features are most important when comparing insulated tumbler models.
Why Stainless Steel Is the Best Material for Insulated Tumblers
When comparing various tumbler models and brands, the most fundamental quality for insulation is the tumbler material. While there are plastic, glass, and acrylic options, stainless steel remains the preferred material for high-quality insulated tumblers.
Stainless steel insulated tumblers offer unmatched durability, temperature retention, and long-term reliability. These characteristics are especially important for those who use their tumblers daily.
Some of the main benefits of stainless steel insulated tumblers include:
- Strong resistance to dents and cracks
- No flavor retention between drinks
- Easy cleaning and maintenance, even when they're not dishwasher safe
- Long service life with frequent use
Stainless steel pairs exceptionally well with double-wall vacuum insulation, which we discuss in detail in the next section. When combined with double-wall constructions, stainless steel tumblers excel at maintaining temperatures without affecting taste or odor.
When shopping for stainless steel tumblers, ensure you choose a model made from food-grade 304 stainless steel. 304 stainless steel is the industry standard for tumblers, as it is safe and resists rust and corrosion.
It's also important to utilize stainless steel tumblers if you customize drinkware. Not all stainless steel tumblers are customizable, but there are excellent stainless steel blanks available online that are perfect for sublimation, epoxy, engraving, and other professional crafting methods. If you're a drinkware crafter, using stainless steel is an absolute must.
Now that you understand the importance of shopping for 304-grade stainless steel tumblers, let's unpack another key feature you'll need: double-wall vacuum insulation.
The Importance of Double-Wall Vacuum Insulation
Not all insulated tumblers perform the same, even if they look similar on the outside. The internal construction directly affects temperature retention and condensation control. As you shop for high-quality insulated tumblers, make sure the container features double-wall vacuum insulation. Double-wall vacuum insulated constructions maintain drink temperatures the longest.
What Is Double-Wall Vacuum Insulation?
Double-wall vacuum insulation uses two layers of stainless steel with a sealed vacuum space between them. These constructions are designed to slow heat transfer by limiting the movement of air between two stainless steel walls. This structure helps drinks maintain their temperatures for longer periods, whether you are keeping coffee hot or preserving ice in cold beverages.
Tumblers with double-wall vacuum insulation are superior to single-wall ones, both for personal use and resale. Containers with this additional layer will retain temperatures for much longer than single-wall stainless steel tumblers. They also help reduce exterior condensation and ensure the outer surface is comfortable to hold.
For custom drinkware sellers, double-wall vacuum insulation matters just as much as appearance. Customers expect their custom tumblers to retain temperatures for several hours, and single-wall constructions can lead to temperature loss, exterior sweating, and negative reviews.
Whether you are shopping for the best insulated tumbler for personal use or sourcing wholesale insulated tumblers, don't overlook this essential feature.
Key Accessories and Features for Stainless Steel Insulated Tumblers
In addition to double-wall vacuum insulation, stainless steel tumblers often come with great accessories for added convenience. While not always necessary, these additions can make insulated tumblers more enjoyable to use.
Look for insulated tumblers that feature:
- Ergonomic Designs: Well-balanced tumblers with contoured shapes are more comfortable to hold, especially when filled to capacity. Ergonomic tumbler designs can reduce hand fatigue and make larger cups easier to use throughout the day.
- Cup-Holder Compatibility: Tapered bases or slimmer bottom profiles allow larger tumblers to fit into standard vehicle cup holders. This feature is especially important for 40-oz travel tumblers.
- Removable Handles: Larger tumblers place more strain on grip and balance. A removable handle is a great addition, as it makes a large container easier to hold. You can also remove the handle if you want to customize the tumbler or fit it in a car cup holder. Removing the handle also makes these tumblers easier to clean and store.
- Secure, Leak-Resistant Lids: A well-designed lid reduces spills during travel and everyday use. Look for options with tight seals and sliding or flip closures that are easy to open while still providing reliable leak protection.
- BPA-Free Components: Lids, straws, and seals made from BPA-free materials help ensure safe, everyday use. This is essential for drinkware and an important feature for those who prioritize health and material quality.
When combined with quality insulation, these accessories and design features make stainless steel tumblers more practical and convenient.
Best Insulated Tumbler Brands
Now that you know what to look for in an insulated tumbler, let's explore some of the most reputable brands that offer long-lasting insulation. These brands feature tumblers with strong temperature retention, durable constructions, and great accessories.
Stanley Insulated Tumblers
Stanley is one of the most recognized names in insulated drinkware. The brand is known for rugged build quality and dependable performance. Many of Stanley’s products feature reliable vacuum insulation and user-friendly lids, making them a solid choice for cold and hot drinks. Stanley also offers large-capacity tumblers as well as accessory options that appeal to commuters and outdoor enthusiasts.
Yeti Insulated Tumblers
Yeti is widely known for producing premium insulated tumblers designed for consistent temperature retention and long-term durability. The brand focuses on thick stainless steel constructions paired with reliable vacuum insulation. These insulated tumblers are known for their simple, functional designs and sturdy lids.
Simple Modern Insulated Tumblers
Simple Modern has built a strong following by offering insulated tumblers that balance performance with style. Their product line includes many sizes and finishes, making them a versatile option for personal use and gifting. Simple Modern insulated tumblers typically provide solid insulation and durable stainless steel bodies at more accessible price points compared to Stanley and Yeti.
Hydro Flask Insulated Tumblers
Hydro Flask specializes in drinkware that performs well in everyday settings. The brand’s insulation technology keeps beverages at desired temperatures for hours. Hydro Flask tumblers are also popular because they come in a range of sizes and colors, and their lids are designed with ease of use in mind. This brand is often recommended for cold drink retention and comfortable handling.
The Stainless Depot Company Insulated Tumblers
While the brands above are great choices for general consumers, The Stainless Depot Company is the best choice for crafters, small businesses, and entrepreneurs. We offer wholesale insulated tumblers as well as affordable prices for individual containers.
Although our double-wall vacuum insulated tumblers are far more affordable than Yeti, Stanley, Simple Modern, and Hydro Flask, you can rest assured that you're getting high-quality products that are built to last. Our tumblers keep drinks hot for 8 hours and cold for 24 hours, and they're perfect for customization.
The Stainless Depot Company stands out from other brands with our:
- Affordable individual tumblers
- Wholesale insulated tumbler options
- High-quality double-wall vacuum insulation
- BPA-free constructions
- 304-grade stainless steel
- Extensive size, style, and accessory options
The Stainless Depot Company offers an exceptional foundation for customization and resale, making it the best option for crafters and tumbler entrepreneurs.
Customizing Insulated Tumblers
Crafters should choose insulated tumblers designed for customization. Not all stainless steel tumblers are built for decoration, and the cup's surface and coating quality play a critical role in how well designs adhere and last.
Whether you're shopping from The Stainless Depot Company or another wholesale insulated tumbler supplier, your blanks should feature certain qualities that are optimal for each crafting method.
Below, we explain what insulated tumblers require to be suitable for the most popular customization techniques.
Sublimation Printing
The best tumblers for sublimation feature smooth, straight walls and consistent polyester-based coatings. The polymer coating allows sublimation ink to bond permanently. Stainless steel tumbler blanks with even surfaces ensure the heat transfer results in vibrant colors and clean, full-coverage designs.
Epoxy Resin
When customizing drinkware using epoxy resin, you'll need a tumbler with a smooth, clean surface that can support layers of resin without bubbling or peeling. High-quality stainless steel or coated tumblers maintain their shape under heat and curing conditions. Durable surfaces make the finished design long-lasting.
Engraving
For engraving, the tumbler should be stainless steel or powder-coated with uniform thickness. Straight walls also help ensure that you achieve clean, legible markings. Consistent material quality ensures precise results whether using a Diode, Fiber, or CO₂ engraver.
Vinyl
Vinyl adhesion works best on smooth, non-textured surfaces, and straight-wall, stainless steel blanks allow designs to stick evenly without peeling. While you can apply vinyl to tapered tumblers, it's more challenging to apply the designs evenly. Additionally, you should opt for durable coatings, which extend the life of the vinyl application.
UV Printing
UV printing works best on stable, smooth surfaces that allow the ink to cure evenly without shifting. Powder-coated or stainless steel tumblers provide consistent adhesion, resulting in bright colors and sharp, detailed designs. Surfaces should be clean and free of oils and dust to ensure the ink bonds properly. While UV printing can handle complex graphics, uneven or textured surfaces may reduce print clarity and durability.
Screen Printing
Screen printing works best on flat or gently curved surfaces that allow ink to transfer evenly. Straight or consistent walls make it easier to apply designs neatly, and a smooth, high-quality surface helps prevent smudging and uneven ink coverage. Additionally, proper cleaning and preparation of the tumbler can further improve adhesion and the clarity of the finished design.
By selecting a tumbler blank designed for your customization method, you can get eye-catching results for both personal drinkware and custom products.
Get Customizable Insulated Tumblers at The Stainless Depot Company
Choosing the right insulated tumbler is essential for both personal use and customization. A 304-grade stainless steel tumbler with double-wall vacuum insulation is the best construction for keeping drinks hot or cold.
While many tumbler suppliers feature this construction, make sure you purchase from a reputable store that's known for quality, such as Stanley, Yeti, or The Stainless Depot Company. Additionally, if you're a crafter, you'll need to find a supplier that specializes in insulated tumblers that are customizable.
Here at The Stainless Depot Company, we have everything you need to start or expand your crafting business, including sublimation heat presses, sublimation printers and ink, sublimation blanks, epoxy resin kits, engraving tumblers, and much more. We also feature stainless steel insulated cups in various sizes, including 20-oz, 30-oz, and 40-oz tumblers, available both for individual sale and in bulk.
The Stainless Depot Company is here to support you, whether you're looking for a single stainless steel insulated tumbler or high-quality supplies for crafting drinkware.
