Dangerous To Put Hot Liquids In Plastic Cup?

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Paddington

Senior member
Jun 26, 2006
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Where I work, styrofoam cups are usually in short supply in the kitchen, but there's plenty of plastic cups around. Some time ago, I put a tea bag in one of those plastic cups and added hot (180 degree) water. It seemed to work, as long as I didn't touch the sides, so I've been using it for some time.

Now that I think about it though, it seems like it might be dangerous if some of the plastic is melting and dissolving with my drink. I've been doing this for a year now too. Anyone have any insight on the issue? :confused:
 
B

Bootprint

Diamond Member
Jan 11, 2002
9,847
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Unless you're leaving finger indentations in the cup, I wouldn't worry. The stryofoam cups probably have a lower melting point.
 
Jeff7

Jeff7

Lifer
Jan 4, 2001
41,596
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Quick web search says:
Polyethylene melting point: 105-130C. Plastics #1, 2, and 4
Polystyrene melting point: 240C. Plastic #6
Polypropylene melting point: 165C. Plastic #5
 
eplebnista

eplebnista

Lifer
Dec 3, 2001
24,123
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91
It's OK as long as the cup isn't getting so hot that it loses its shape and makes a mess.
 
M

MSCoder610

Senior member
Aug 17, 2004
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Usually putting hot liquids in anything like that works fine, but of course microwaving it is a very bad idea.
 
effowe

effowe

Diamond Member
Nov 1, 2004
6,012
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Just throw an extra cup on the outside, that should keep it from burning your fingers too.
 
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