Cups to Milliliters Converter: Convert Cups to mL
Use this tool to convert cups to milliliters (mL) for any measurement system: US, metric, or imperial.
Understanding Cups to Milliliters Conversion
Converting from cups to milliliters is a common need in both cooking and science. A cup is a unit of volume used in recipes around the world, but not all cups are the same. Depending on where you live, a "cup" may mean 236.59 mL, 250 mL, or even 284.13 mL. That’s why it’s crucial to know which standard your recipe or measurement is using.
Types of Cups and Their Milliliter Equivalents
- US Customary Cup: 1 cup = 236.59 mL (most American recipes use this)
- Metric Cup: 1 cup = 250 mL (used in Australia, New Zealand, Canada)
- Imperial/UK Cup: 1 cup = 284.13 mL (older British recipes and some UK references)
Why the Difference in Cup Size Matters
The variation in cup definitions can lead to significant differences in recipes, especially in baking where precision matters. For example, 2 US cups of liquid is 473 mL, but 2 metric cups is 500 mL — a 27 mL difference. This could affect dough hydration, soup thickness, and other critical factors in recipes.
Conversion Chart: Cups to mL
| Cups | US (236.59 mL) | Metric (250 mL) | UK/Imperial (284.13 mL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.25 | 59.15 mL | 62.5 mL | 71.03 mL |
| 0.5 | 118.3 mL | 125 mL | 142.07 mL |
| 1 | 236.59 mL | 250 mL | 284.13 mL |
| 2 | 473.18 mL | 500 mL | 568.26 mL |
| 4 | 946.36 mL | 1000 mL | 1136.52 mL |
Measuring Tips for Cups and Milliliters
- Use clear liquid measuring cups for liquids — and check at eye level.
- Milliliters are best measured using a digital scale with volume mode or graduated cylinders.
- Always confirm the type of cup used in your recipe, especially if it comes from outside your country.
Applications Beyond Cooking
While most common in the kitchen, converting cups to milliliters is also useful in:
- Chemistry and lab work
- Pet care (measuring medicine or water)
- Hydration tracking (sports and fitness)
- Industrial food processing and packaging
FAQs About Cups to mL Conversion
Q: Is 1 cup equal to 250 mL?
A: Only if it’s a metric cup. In the US, 1 cup = 236.59 mL. In the UK, it’s 284.13 mL.
Q: How many mL is 1.5 US cups?
A: 1.5 × 236.59 = 354.89 mL
Q: Can I use the same conversion for dry and liquid ingredients?
A: Yes, because this is a volume-to-volume conversion. Just be sure you're using proper measuring tools for each.
Q: Why does my cup measure say "metric" or "US"?
A: Measuring cups are made for specific regions. Double-check the markings before converting or cooking.
Conclusion
Cups to milliliters conversion is simple in principle but critical in practice. Whether you're cooking, mixing drinks, or working in a lab, choosing the correct cup type ensures accuracy. Use this converter anytime you need reliable volume measurement across systems.