The Pros and Cons of Sealing Cups vs. Using Lids: What You Need to Know

If you run a drink shop, coffee bar, or juice bar, chances are you’ve asked yourself at some point: Should I switch to sealing my cups or continue using traditional lids? Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your business model and operational needs.

We’ll walk through the key factors to consider when deciding between cup sealing machines and traditional plastic lids.

Branding & Presentation

• Sealing Film: Cup sealing offers a sleek, professional look that can set your business apart. Seals can include custom designs and logos, creating a cleaner aesthetic and helping with brand visibility, especially when your drinks are photographed or shared on social media.
• Lids: Traditional lids can still look great, especially when paired with custom-printed cups and sleeves. Dome lids are especially popular for showing off whipped cream or layered drinks like frappes and fruit teas.

If your brand image focuses on modern, clean, and Instagram-worthy packaging, sealing might be the better choice.

Spill Protection & Portability

• Sealing Film: Sealing your drinks offers airtight protection, ideal for to-go orders and delivery apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats. Customers love not having to worry about spills in the car or bag.
• Lids: While snap-on lids can work well for many drinks, they’re not spill-proof, especially when the cup is jostled. Lids with straw holes also pose a risk of leakage.

If you do a high volume of takeout or delivery orders, sealing your cups can offer a better customer experience.

Speed & Efficiency

• Sealing Film: Once mastered, sealing can be very fast, just place the cup on the machine and press a button. But there’s a learning curve, and sealing machines require regular maintenance and downtime for roll changes.
• Lids: Lids are simple, fast, and require no training. Your staff can quickly pop them on without interrupting the workflow.

If your team is small or frequently changing, lids may be the more practical choice. If you want a clean and uniform system and are willing to invest in training, sealing works well.

Upfront Cost & Equipment

• Sealing Film: To start sealing your cups, you’ll need to purchase a sealing machine. Depending on the model, this can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. You’ll also need compatible cups and seal film rolls.
• Lids: Lids are relatively low-cost and don’t require any special equipment. You can buy as needed and mix and match as much as you want. 

If you’re just starting out or have a tight budget, lids are more accessible. If you’re ready to invest in long-term efficiency and aesthetics, sealing is worth considering.

Final Thoughts: Which Is Right for You?

Choose Sealed Film If You:

• Want a modern, clean look for your brand
• Rely heavily on delivery and to-go orders
• Have the budget for equipment and compatible cups

Stick with Lid if You:

• Need a simple, low-cost solution
• Prefer flexibility with cup types and sizes
• Operate a self-serve business

At Custom Cup Factory, we offer both sealing film, sealing machines and a wide variety of plastic lids. Whether you're sealing every cup or popping on a lid, we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your business.

Need help deciding? Contact our team for extra help!