Vacuum flasks

Vacuum jugs and thermos containers keep food and drinks hot or cold

Our stylish vacuum containers and thermos flasks keep cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot for longer. They're designed to come along on any picnic or day out, while also looking the part on a coffee table or dining table. Our thermos flasks keep tea and coffee nicely warm, while cold drinks from a vacuum jug are still refreshing hours later. Special food thermos containers even keep soups and stews hot for longer – and thanks to the wide opening, filling them and eating straight from the container is easy. All our vacuum jugs and thermos containers are designed to be robust enough to take a bit of wear and tear.

Key features and benefits of our thermos flasks (depending on the model):

• High-quality insulation: drinks stay hot or cold for up to six hours.
• Robust materials: from stainless steel to lightweight plastic options.
• Various sizes: from a compact 0.5 l thermos container to a 1.6 l vacuum jug.
• Food thermos containers: airtight and leak-proof with a wide opening.
• Clever closures: reduce heat loss and prevent spills.
• Stylish design: beautiful colours and finishes for on the go or on the table.

Planning a longer day out with your loved ones, with good food and drink sorted? Or have you got into meal prep and need a good food thermos container? Whether it's a thermos flask or an insulated cup – you'll find practical, affordable options here for your drinks, soups and stews.

What's the difference between a vacuum jug and a thermos flask?

Technically there's no difference between the two terms, as 'thermos' was originally a brand name that has become common usage, particularly for portable flasks for out and about'Vacuum jug' is the neutral umbrella term for double-walled containers that keep drinks hot or cold for a long time. In everyday use, 'vacuum jug' often refers to elegant table jugs that look good alongside coffee and tea sets.

What should I look for when buying a thermos flask?

When buying a thermos flask, the main things to consider are size, material and insulation performance. A large 1 l to 1.6 l thermos flask is good for longer trips or several thirsty people – compact models are ideal for the office or for one person. Stainless steel thermos flasks are popular because they're especially durable and have a clean, simple look. Plastic versions are often insulated with stainless steel or thick inner glass walls too. Whether you'd like a white, green or black thermos flask, there are plenty of options to choose from, so you can pick one that fits perfectly on your kitchen worktop or looks just right on the table when you've got people round. If you plan to use your thermos container for food or drinks on the go a lot, an airtight, leak-proof lid is worth looking out for.

Why is there a vacuum inside a thermos flask?

The vacuum between the double walls of a thermos flask is the secret behind its insulation. In the airless space, heat can escape neither through conduction nor convection. This keeps drinks in your IKEA vacuum jug at the right temperature for up to six hours. This technology makes every thermos flask a reliable companion on the go. You'll also find plenty of other storage and transport containers with clever lids at IKEA, from small to large, for kitchen supplies or storing things in the cellar.

How do I clean a thermos flask on the inside?

For regular cleaning, warm water with a little washing-up liquid is all you need. Avoid abrasive sponges to protect the inner coating. That keeps your thermos flask hygienic and prevents any lingering smells or off-tastes. Most thermos containers aren't suitable for the dishwasher, though some models are specifically made to be. Always check the care instructions so your vacuum jug stays looking good and working well for longer.

How do I remove coffee stains or tea marks from a thermos flask?

Coffee oils and tea stains in a thermos flask can usually be loosened with a little bicarbonate of soda and hot water. Fill the flask with the mixture and leave it to soak overnight. Alternatively, a solution of vinegar or citric acid also works. Make sure you rinse the thermos container thoroughly afterwards. Two more tried-and-tested tips: denture-cleaning tablets or vinegar with a handful of rice grains can make cleaning your flask even easier.