Identification

• Liquid measuring cups are sold individually and made from clear glass or plastic, with measures indicated on the outside of the cup. Dry measuring cups may be metal or colored plastic and are usually sold in sets.

Function

• Liquid measuring cups are used to measure water, milk, cooking oils and other liquid ingredients. Dry measuring cups are used to measure flour, sugar and other dry ingredients.

Size

• Liquid measures come in 1 cup, 2 cup, 4 cup and 8 cup sizes. Dry measures are generally sold in sets that include 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup and 1 cup sizes.

Features

• The fill line on a liquid measuring cup is located below the rim of the cup so that a liquid can be measured accurately when the cup is placed at eye level. Dry measures are designed to be filled to the top.

Benefits

• Liquid measuring cups are designed to prevent spilling of liquid ingredients. Dry measuring cups allow for the leveling off of dry ingredients for accuracy.

Considerations

• Measuring spoons, which are usually sold in sets ranging from 1/8 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon or 1 1/2 tablespoons, are used to measure both liquid and dry ingredients.